, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary
for Climate Change and Rural Affairs: I am pleased to announce a
new package of support for GeoMôn, our Geopark on
Ynys Môn, one of our most special areas of natural heritage
in Wales.
Wales punches well above its weight internationally given its
unique landscape, archaeological record, language and culture.
Our National Parks and National Landscapes are some of those
crown jewels in terms of landscape, but we also have several
areas internationally recognised by UNESCO: 4 UNESCO World
Heritage Sites, a UNESCO biosphere and two UNESCO Geoparks.
Many countries have a history of using geological phenomena to
attract visitors and enrich learning. Geotourism isn't new to
Wales, but we are keen to do more to tap into the full potential
of our geoparks to support sustainable tourism and promote local
pride and sense of place and ownership.
Our first Geopark was Fforest Fawr, in the
western Bannau Brycheiniog National
Park. We are grateful to the National Park Authority for
managing and promoting the area. Our other Geopark is on Ynys
Môn. This is the first island ever to receive Geopark status,
covers some 720 square kilometres and has 201 kilometres of
coastline. With rocks spanning 4 Eras and 12 Geological periods,
1,800 million years of history has fashioned more than 100 rock
types.
I was recently delighted to meet volunteers at GeoMôn's visitor
centre in Amlwch - a group of dedicated local people, including
several eminent scientists. I pay warm tribute to the
commitment and passion of these volunteers. The charity does
terrific work in promoting the Geopark locally, through guided
walks and publications.
On my visit we discussed GeoMôn's plans and aspirations for the
future. Dedicated funding will help them reach their potential in
terms of engaging both visitors and local people. I am very
pleased therefore to announce a new grant to GeoMôn, which will
enable them to employ a Development Officer. The role of this
person will be to:
- Improve delivery of UNESCO and WG sustainability objectives
- Develop new initiatives for collaborative projects with
partners that contribute to a sustainable tourism strategy for
Ynys Môn
- Widen engagement with local communities through a dynamic
social media campaign.
- Increase the reach of its educational facilities for schools,
and
- Increase the visibility of the geopark and the UNESCO
brand
This relatively modest funding will have a significant impact for
the island's heritage and help give our Geoparks the profile they
deserve.
This has been very much a case of listening to and understanding
a local vision of protecting and promoting natural heritage. I am
proud to support GeoMôn as it continues to tell the story of our
unique and world class natural heritage.
