Looking at Heritage through a Visitor’s Eye

Looking at Heritage through a Visitor’s Eye

07 September 2014

West Cork Development Partnership will host West Cork’s first ever Heritage and Tourism Conference, titled ‘Looking at Heritage through a Visitor’s Eye’ at the Top of the Rock Pod Páirc and Walking Centre in Drimoleague on Friday 12th September from 9am to 4.30pm.

Local and regional tourism and heritage stakeholders in West Cork will come together at the recently opened, unique venue, to focus on how the distinctive West Cork Heritage can be sensitively harnessed as a magnet for visitors.

Popular Irish storyteller Eddie Lenihan will give the opening address, followed by a series of presentations from national and international heritage and tourism professionals, followed by a brainstorming session.

The day-long conference, which is free to attend, will culminate with a field trip along St. Finbarr’s Pilgrim Way, led by David Ross.

Speaking about the importance of the upcoming conference, Ian Dempsey, CEO, West Cork Development Partnership said “Heritage and culture gives meaning to West Cork’s past, makes relevant it’s present, and ultimately shapes the future. It provides an understanding of the history, the environment, and the people, as well as the influences and traditions that combine to make West Cork – A Place Apart.” 

Conference Chairperson, Terri Kearney, Manager, Skibbereen Heritage Centre said “We have a really strong line-up of speakers who will share their thoughts with us on the role that heritage has to play in the tourism experience, with a particular focus on West Cork. We invite conference delegates to play an active part in the discussions and brainstorming session, with the hope that the feedback which emerges from the conference will inform and shape the role of heritage in tourism development in the region.”

She added “This will be a valuable event at the end of the 2014 season as we plan ahead for 2015.”

To register to attend, visit www.wcdp.ie/heritageconference, or call Jean or Lisa at the West Cork Development Partnership on (023) 8834035.