Aughakillymaude Community Mummers perform at Revalidation Engagement Event. They are joined by: Back (from left) Brendan Jennings, Director of Service, Cavan County Council; John Boyle, Director of Community & Wellbeing: Fermanagh and Omagh District Council; Ian Davidson, Head of Culture and Wellbeing services: Fermanagh and Omagh District Council; middle, Joana Rodrigues and Helga Chulepin, UNESCO Global Geopark assessors; and front (centre), Grainne O’Connor, Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark Manager.

Geopark awarded UNESCO status for another four years

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Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark has retained its UNESCO Global Geopark status for a further four years until March 2028. The designation was confirmed following a recent revalidation process.

UNESCO Global Geopark status is recognised worldwide and is awarded to sites that have internationally important geological heritage and are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development combined with an approach that empowers local communities and a commitment to directly benefit the local economy.

Two UNESCO Global Geopark assessors visited the Geopark to observe conservation, evaluate the ongoing commitment to the UNESCO Geopark’s values, meet with local communities, Geopark ambassadors and members of the Geoparks business sustainability network. The process also included a successful application to reduce the territory area and the new Geopark boundary to reflect the natural landscape, defined as Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) Areas, to ensure landscape continuity.

Chair of the Geopark Committee, Cllr Anthony Feely, welcomed the news saying: “Cavan County Council in partnership with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council are committed to the cross border partnership, which manages the work of the Geopark.

“The UNESCO Global status allows the Geopark to continue to use its geological, natural and cultural heritage, to enhance awareness and understanding of key issues facing society, such as using our earth’s resources sustainably and mitigating the effects of climate change.”

Cllr Feely thanked all those who showcased the region during the revalidation visit. “I want to commend the Geopark team, led by Gráinne O’Connor, on the outstanding work they undertake and their commitment to sustainable development for our landscape and communities, which has enabled the retention of this world recognised designation.’

Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council, Cllr T.P. O’Reilly also expressed his delight at the continued status for the Geopark. “This designation is testament to the ongoing commitment of all in Cavan County Council, our partners in Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and of course the Geopark team to the preservation and sustainable development of our natural, cultural and built heritage.

“I encourage businesses and communities to continue to engage with the Geopark team to work together to leverage social and economic benefits from the designation and I urge you, both residents and visitors to the area, to discover the Geopark, to explore the world class sites and to experience all we have to offer in this part of the world.”

Initially granted this prestigious status in November 2015, Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark spans from the northern shores of lower Lough Erne to the southern shores of Lough Oughter. People who visit the Geopark can make use of a variety of walking and cycling trails, visit the majestic Cuilcagh Mountain Park and enjoy the expansive lakelands.

With over 50 sites and a range of activities and events taking place throughout the year, locals and visitors can learn more and get involved with Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark. Upcoming events at the Geopark include, Heritage Week Geopark summer scheme, a free demonstration titled ‘From Fleece to Fabric - The Story of Wool’, a Bat Hunt in recognition of International Bat Night and an evening of music by Ballyconnell Intergenerational Community Choir.

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