Cuilcagh Lakelands marks 25 years of heritage
Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark has launched celebrations to honour 25 years since its pioneering European Geopark status. The programme highlights the enduring partnerships and sustainable development inspired by this unique cross-border region spanning Cavan and Fermanagh.
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Cavan County Council
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⏱️ 3 min read
Last week, Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark officially commenced its 25th anniversary celebrations, marking a quarter-century since it was designated a European Geopark in 2001. As one of the earliest Geoparks in Europe and a founding member of a global network now comprising 241 UNESCO Global Geoparks, it stands as a beacon of geological heritage and regional cooperation.
The original vision behind the Geopark was innovative, recognising the potential of the area's distinctive geology and natural environment to foster sustainable economic growth, environmental care, education, and community well-being. This foresight predated many modern place-based collaborative approaches, demonstrating how partnerships can generate lasting value for both people and place.
A landmark moment arrived in 2008 when Cavan County Council joined forces with the then Marble Arch Caves Geopark, creating the world's first transnational Geopark. Since then, cross-border collaboration between Cavan, Fermanagh and Omagh District Councils has delivered substantial benefits for local communities while safeguarding one of Ireland’s most remarkable landscapes.
Councillor John Paul Feeley, Chair of the Geopark Committee, reflected on the celebrations: "Geopark25 celebrates 25 years of vision, innovation and partnership. We honour how geological heritage supports communities, inspires education, and drives sustainable development. Looking back, we also pledge continued collaboration for the Geopark’s future." Councillor Anthony Feely, Vice Chair, added: "We pay tribute to the visionaries whose ambition established this movement and to those who have championed the Geopark ever since. We are proud to be a part of this pioneering story."
The Geopark’s success is deeply rooted in community involvement, with education programmes, volunteer opportunities, business networks, and cross-border initiatives fostering active local participation. Strong partnerships with geological surveys, tourism agencies, environmental groups, schools, and businesses have enhanced conservation, research, and awareness of the region’s internationally significant heritage.
Gráinne O’Connor, Geopark Manager, emphasised: "Our success is measured by the strength of our communities and partnerships. The investments, opportunities, conservation achievements, and educational benefits of the past 25 years showcase what is possible when people unite behind a shared vision. As we celebrate, we look forward confidently to the next chapter."
The anniversary programme will celebrate the Geopark’s rich legacy, achievements, and the contributions of countless individuals and organisations. It aims to inspire future generations and reaffirm commitment to sustainable development, environmental stewardship, education, and cross-border cooperation. Details are available on the official website at www.cuilcaghlakelands.org/events.
As a founding member of the international Geopark movement, Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark reflects proudly on its role in a global success story while building a resilient and sustainable future for the communities it serves.
The original vision behind the Geopark was innovative, recognising the potential of the area's distinctive geology and natural environment to foster sustainable economic growth, environmental care, education, and community well-being. This foresight predated many modern place-based collaborative approaches, demonstrating how partnerships can generate lasting value for both people and place.
A landmark moment arrived in 2008 when Cavan County Council joined forces with the then Marble Arch Caves Geopark, creating the world's first transnational Geopark. Since then, cross-border collaboration between Cavan, Fermanagh and Omagh District Councils has delivered substantial benefits for local communities while safeguarding one of Ireland’s most remarkable landscapes.
Councillor John Paul Feeley, Chair of the Geopark Committee, reflected on the celebrations: "Geopark25 celebrates 25 years of vision, innovation and partnership. We honour how geological heritage supports communities, inspires education, and drives sustainable development. Looking back, we also pledge continued collaboration for the Geopark’s future." Councillor Anthony Feely, Vice Chair, added: "We pay tribute to the visionaries whose ambition established this movement and to those who have championed the Geopark ever since. We are proud to be a part of this pioneering story."
The Geopark’s success is deeply rooted in community involvement, with education programmes, volunteer opportunities, business networks, and cross-border initiatives fostering active local participation. Strong partnerships with geological surveys, tourism agencies, environmental groups, schools, and businesses have enhanced conservation, research, and awareness of the region’s internationally significant heritage.
Gráinne O’Connor, Geopark Manager, emphasised: "Our success is measured by the strength of our communities and partnerships. The investments, opportunities, conservation achievements, and educational benefits of the past 25 years showcase what is possible when people unite behind a shared vision. As we celebrate, we look forward confidently to the next chapter."
The anniversary programme will celebrate the Geopark’s rich legacy, achievements, and the contributions of countless individuals and organisations. It aims to inspire future generations and reaffirm commitment to sustainable development, environmental stewardship, education, and cross-border cooperation. Details are available on the official website at www.cuilcaghlakelands.org/events.
As a founding member of the international Geopark movement, Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark reflects proudly on its role in a global success story while building a resilient and sustainable future for the communities it serves.
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