The Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark has been awarded a UNESCO Global Geopark accolade, a first UNESCO Global Geopark in Connacht, and the fifth on the Island of Ireland.
Exclusively, the JCWL UNESCO Geopark includes the only Gaeltacht region in a UNESCO Geopark on the island of Ireland and globally.
This high-profile international badge of honour recognises the JCWL Geopark’s outstanding natural beauty, unique culture, rich heritage, Irish Language – Gaeltacht region, progressive and strong community spirit, along with its inspired people.
The JCWL UNESCO Global Geopark encapsulates 20 highly motivated and determined communities across north County Galway, south-west County Mayo inclusive of the Gaeltacht.
Each community is dedicated to maintaining their individual charm and ethos while working together to sustain, nurture and support unique cultural and heritage skill sets and traditions.
Embracing new opportunities also forms part of the agenda especially those which complement the sustained developmental efforts of people and their communities in order to achieve the coveted UNESCO status for the region.
Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, said “The ratification of Joyce Country & Western Lakes as a UNESCO Global Geopark is a landmark achievement that celebrates the extraordinary natural heritage and living Irish language culture of this remarkable region.”
“Údarás na Gaeltachta is proud to support this recognition, which will open new doors for sustainable tourism, community development, and economic opportunity for the Gaeltacht communities at its heart.”
Cllr David Collins, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, said, “UNESCO Global Geopark status shines a well-deserved spotlight not just on our unique landscape, but on the people who live and work here and have cared for it over generations.”
“While the economic benefits are clear, there’s also a strong conservation element to this award, supporting communities to protect our natural heritage, biodiversity and way of life, and ensuring this special part of Galway and Mayo is preserved and respected into the future.”
Niall Ó Donnchú, Director General with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, said the organisation, “warmly welcomes the announcement that the Joyce Country & Western Lakes Geopark will receive its UNESCO Global Geopark accolade.”
“This brings significant opportunity for community development, education and training; business enterprise and tourism ventures.”
“NPWS particularly looks forward to working with the Geopark and its communities on biodiversity initiatives which will enrich and showcase the enormous landscape diversity, unique geology, natural history and cultural heritage that the area offers.”
