This Friday’s launch event, which presents ‘The Glen as A Place of Creative Encounter’, will take place in The Glen Resource Centre from 10am – 2pm and is open to anyone who would like to participate in Gleann a Phúca offerings, including education and environmental outreach groups, community groups, youth leaders, local schools and anyone with an interest in The Glen River Park. The event includes a talk and walk in the park with well known Irish biologist, environmental consultant, author, broadcaster and educator, Éanna Ní Lamhna, and the launch of the new expanded edition of The Glen River Hidden Valley Booklet. A workshop led by Artistic Director of Gleann a’ Phúca, Julie Forrester, and Catherine Seale-Duggan of the Local Authority Water Programme, will also take place using the new booklet as a resource.

Commenting on the launch of ‘Gleann a’ Phúca,’ Artistic Director, Julie Forrester, says the project is about connecting to the biodiversity crisis, helping people rethink lifestyles and ensuring a fair and just transition to sustainable stewardship of The Glen River.

“The health of our water is vital to all life, yet in Ireland we take it for granted,” said Julie. “The Glen River valley is an urban parkland with deep generational connections in the community due to its unique industrial history and ecology. This ancient glacial valley still bears the scars of its industrial past; human activity continues to influence the water quality and biodiversity in the park, while a natural rewilding is taking place.”