UNESCO status sought for Mayo/Galway geopark

AN application to UNESCO in respect of the Joyce Country & Western Lakes Geopark project is due to be submitted in November.

Assessment will take about 18 months, with the globally recognised status adding significantly to the tourism product of Mayo.

The geopark straddles a unique landscape in southwest Mayo and into north Connemara, with an exceptional geology that tells a story spanning millions of years.

If successful, it will be the first UNESCO brand of this level in Connaught, members of Mayo County Council's tourism committee heard in a presentation on the geopark.

Geoparks are places of internationally important geology which are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and economic development.

UNESCO geopark status carries no additional legal status or planning restrictions.

Operating under this global brand, the project aims to showcase the local towns and villages, sustaining the rural population through business expansion and start-ups, such as food, drink and crafts, services such as cafes, and tour guides.

It is estimated that the project will create an estimated 200 jobs over three to five years.

It also celebrates traditional farming practices and methods, and includes the promotion of the Irish language. Education is also a key component of the project.

Tourism officer with the project, Dominic O Morain, explained how it ticks the boxes for visitors who are culturally curious, greater escapers and social energisers.

As a significant loop off the Wild Atlantic Way, it added significantly to the tourism product and would also link up with other routes.

Visitors would get to enjoy an authentic local experience and the natural environment through what is a community-led project.

Councillor Peter Flynn said this was a hugely exciting project for Mayo and Galway and it could have a huge impact on the whole region.

We have some amazing landscapes on our doorstep he said, noting the educational, tourism and community aspects of the project.

Councillor Michael Kilcoyne agreed that the future looked 'very bright'.

Conference

A major virtual conference is being organised by the Joyce Country & Western Lakes Geopark project for June 15 and 16.

Themed as UNESCO in Our Whispering Landscape, the conference will open a window on UNESCO global geoparks’ contributions to sustainable development, and how communities can benefit from more locally generated jobs and business.

It will also showcase the rich heritage in this JCWL geopark region, providing models and ideas for cultural development, geotourism and networking.

Details are available on the geopark website: https://joycecountrygeoparkproject.ie/en/