Deserved and Invaluable News for Copper Coast Geopark – Minister Coffey

Fine Gael Waterford Minister Paudie Coffey has strongly welcomed the news that Copper Coast Geopark has been designated a Unesco Global Geopark at a recent conference in Paris.

The decision means that Copper Coast Geopark is now recognised with the same status as a Unesco World Heritage Site and, along with the Burren and Cliffs of Moher in Co. Clare and the Marble Arch Caves in Co. Fermanagh, joins a network of 120 Unesco Global Geoparks across the world.

Commenting on the announcement Minister Coffey stated:

“I would like to congratulate Copper Coast Geopark on the joy and thrill of this significant achievement and congratulate the local communities and the dedicated individuals involved in turning this special stretch of land in Waterford into the internationally recognised entity it now is today.

“This is excellent news for Waterford. The Copper Coast Geopark has now been recognised as a cultural and natural site with outstanding importance to the common heritage of humanity. The Copper Coast is the oldest Geopark in Ireland and is an indispensable storyteller of the past, present and future geological events that have, are, and will contribute to the shape of our planet, therefore it is a monument worth cherishing,” Minister Coffey said.

“As well as recognising the geological importance of the Copper Coast this designation by the successful Unesco brand will have a major knock-on effect in boosting the local economy. This aspect of the announcement has the potential to steer the local townlands toward a model of sustainable community-based tourism.

“I once again reiterate my delight for the community and individuals involved in Copper Coast Geopark on this invaluable news. I congratulate them on their entrance to the world stage and I look forward to witnessing their continued success with the future potential of this site and the protection of this legacy,” said Minister Coffey.

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