DR KIRSTIN LEMON DELIVERS INSPIRATIONAL ‘TALE OF TWO OCEANS’ GUEST LECTURE

The ‘Tale of Two Oceans’ Guest Lecture delivered by Dr Kirstin Lemon from the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland considered plans to secure UNESCO Global Geopark status for the geopark project within the three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB); Mourne, Ring of Gullion and Strangford & Lecale.

Discussions centred on the potential to develop sustainable tourism and on the ways in which the geological heritage could be used to provide recreational opportunities, generate economic benefits and increase awareness of the area's natural assets. Dr Kirstin Lemon shared interesting insights about the area’s geological history:

“The proposed UNESCO Global Geopark area uses the rocks and landscapes to tell a tale of two oceans; one that has long since disappeared, and one that has 'recently' opened. The unique geological heritage of the area spans over 400 million years of history, providing evidence of these two vast oceans and so much more besides.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Roisin Mulgrew added:

“UNESCO Global Geopark status for the area will play a key role in differentiating the region and in giving it a much stronger and cohesive market identity. The proposed UNESCO Global Geopark will bring significant economic benefits and will also have an important role to play in empowering local communities, giving them the opportunities to develop cohesive partnerships with the common goal of promoting the area’s significant geological and other heritage”.