World Earth Day Celebration of Irish and Canadian Biosphere Stamps
22 April 2005
An Post Chairperson Ms Margaret McGinley and Canadian Consul Mr Carl Schwenger unveiled the new stamps which feature Killarney National Park, Co Kerry (48c) and Alberta’s Waterton Lakes National Park (65c).
The stamp launch, at a reception in St Anne’s Golf Club in Dublin’s Bull Island Nature Reserve, was one of hundreds of events taking place around the world to mark - World Earth Day. A similar unveiling took place at the Irish embassy in Ottawa, Canada.
Biospheres are areas of particular ecological importance wherein environmental research or wildlife research and commercial activity co-exist in harmony with the underlying eco-system. Killarney National Park and Bull Island Nature Reserve were designated as biospheres in 1981.
Killarney National Park is one of Ireland’s best-known and well-developed tourist destinations. Bull Island Nature Reserve, Ireland’s second biosphere reserve, is one of the world’s most important wintering sites for wild fowl and waders and an important base for national and international research. It is a popular location for educational and recreational activities as well as being home to St Anne’s Golf Club.
Alberta’s Waterton Lakes National Park is one of 13 Biosphere Reserves in Canada. The area’s mild, moist and windy climate ensures the existence of more than 970 species of vegetation and more than 335 fauna. It occupies 525 square kilometres and attracts more than 40,000 visitors annually.
Ms McGinley said “Both Ireland and Canada have been blessed with astonishing environmental beauty. This natural endowment brings with it the weighty responsibility to protect our environment and promote awareness and understanding of our abundant beauty and precious, unspoilt ecosystems.”
The An Post stamp was designed by Irish artist Finbarr O’Connor while the Canadian issue is the work of Jeff Spokes. The stamps with mini-sheets and first day cover showing Dr Tom Ryan’s painting of the North Bull Island are available from www.Irishstamps.ie and at main Post Offices.
