This article is from page 3 of the 2009-11-03 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 3 JPG
A LEADING expert on the Burren has called on the Minister for the Environment, John Gormley (GP), to consult with the people of the Burren before pushing forward in seeking World Heritage Status for the area.
The Green Party leader yesterday announced a new tentative list of po- tential Irish nominees to the World Heritage List which included the Burren and six other possible loca- tions.
Speaking yesterday, the manager of the BurrenLIFE Project and found- ing member of the BurrenBEO Trust,
Brendan Dunford, said that the local people needed to be consulted to avoid hostility to the project arising because of a lack of information.
“The important thing about this process 1s what happens next – the real challenge will come when they try and push this project forward,” said Mr Dunford.
‘In contrast to Ireland’s two other World Heritage Sites, the Burren is a relatively densely occupied area and this whole thing will require a lot of engagement with the people.
‘“BurrenBEO did a survey last year on this subject and it revealed that most people didn’t know much about
the World Heritage status. There was curiosity but not necessarily hostil- ity and most people wanted to know nee) Ree
Speaking at yesterday’s announce- ment, Mr Gormley said that the “World Heritage List has evolved considerably since its inception and it is now much more difficult to meet the UNESCO requirements for in- scription.”
Yesterday news was welcomed by the Mayor of Clare, Tony Mulcahy (FG), who said it could be a real tourist draw for the county.
“By securing World Heritage Site Status, the Burren would benefit from
a wider international profile and, as a result, would experience an increase in visitor numbers,” he said.
‘Furthermore, such status would ensure the conservation of the fragile landscape and its habitats for future generations.”
The Department of the Environ- ment, Heritage and Local Govern- ment is inviting comments on the draft new tentative list to be made to it’s office before the end of the year.