Exploring the Heritage of the Cuilcagh and Slieve Anierin Uplands

A free talk by local geologist and caver John Kelly on the cultural legacy of iron-making around the mountains takes place on Thursday 5th May at 8pm at Trivia House, Swanlinbar. The talk is the first event in The Cuilcagh and Slieve Anierin Project, a short series of activities aimed at recognising and highlighting the valuable natural, built, historical and cultural heritage of this unique cross-border area.

The project will engage with local experts on a range of topics including: the industrial heritage of iron making, rare species, plants and habitats, and the 1834 Ordnance Survey of Ireland.

The Project is led by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark and Collaborative Action for the Natura Network (CANN) Project. The CANN Project is funded by the EU’s INTERREG VA Programme, through the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) to the tune of €9.4 million and is working with 11 partners to deliver conservation targets across Northern Ireland, the border region of Ireland and western Scotland. The CANN project is also match-funded by the Department of Agriculture.

The inspiration for the Cuilcagh-Slieve Anierin Project came from a recently developed Heritage Legacy Delivery Plan by the Cuilcagh to Cleenish: A Great Place (C2C) Project.  The Project will focus on a range of co-designed activities including talks, guided walks and events with communities around the Cuilcagh and Slieve Anierin Uplands in Fermanagh, Cavan and Leitrim including Florencecourt, Glangevlin, Arney, Dowra, Ballinaglera, Ballinamore, Belcoo, Blacklion and Drumshanbo

Barney Devine, Local Co-Ordinator for the Cuilcagh and Slieve Anierin Project said, “The recent Heritage Legacy Delivery Plan by the Cuilcagh to Cleenish (C2C) project has led to heritage activity with local communities around Cuilcagh in Fermanagh and this project aims to further enhance this engagement on both sides of the border. It is a wonderful opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural, cultural, built and archaeological heritage of the area through an exciting variety of projects and events involving local heritage experts within communities”.

The first event in the Project is a free-of-charge heritage talk by local geologist and caver John Kelly who will share his knowledge on ‘The Iron Makers’, looking at the environmental, commercial and cultural impact and legacy of iron-making around the mountains.  The event will take place on Thursday 5th May at 8pm at Trivia House, Swanlinbar with no booking required. 

To find out more about the project, including specific information on events and community initiatives please contact Barney Devine at barneydevine@gmail.com or on 07734847470.