Locals celebrate Heritage Week

BALLYMUN based Global Action Plan (GAP) celebrated the recent Heritage Week 2017 at North Bull Island Nature Reserve and the Glás Community Garden.

The week included two fully booked workshops, which taught 51 participants from all ages about the science and mythology of our natural heritage.

GAP staff say there is much to learn about north Dublin’s natural heritage, whether it be Ireland’s first UNESCO protected biosphere at Bull Island or a local community garden.

This year’s theme for Heritage Week was ‘It’s In Your Nature’ giving GAP the perfect opportunity to spread their mission to the 51 visitors who came out.

GAP’s CEO, Vanessa Moore, firmly believes in the purpose of Heritage Week.

“It is a great opportunity to raise awareness of our fascinating natural heritage and ecologically important habitats like the North Bull Island,” she said.

“Fostering an appreciation of our natural heritage is the first step in protecting it – and that’s what GAP is all about – empowering individuals to take care of their environment.”

Participants in the Heritage Week workshops were taught about various themes in Ireland’s natural heritage, such as how to tell the difference between a moth and a butterfly and how to make tea from herbs grown in one’s garden.

Even still, GAP’s Education Officer, Padraic Creedon, had a clear favourite activity.

“The standout moment for me this year was how enthralled the children were with the wildlife on North Bull Island and I don't blame them as I feel the same way every time I set foot onto that island.”

The workshops were designed to have participants use all five of their senses in order to explore their natural environment, but what tour isn’t complete without a few stories?

The ancient legends of Princess Étaín of Ulster, and why Thor protected Rowan tree from lightning were staples at both events.

Whether it be picking freshly grown raspberries, making ‘wild tea’ sneaking a peak of the elusive pale tussock caterpillar, or conducting experiments to learn the starch content in various foods, the workshops made sure that every aspect of heritage was present.