UNESCO Global Geoparks are areas with internationally important geology which are managed by a nationally recognised body such as a Local Authority or Geopark Management Group, are visible to the public in their promotion of geology, sustainable development and education and are part of the Global Geopark Network. They are developed on a 'bottom-up' approach and therefore are for the people and by the people.

The Mining Heritage Trust of Ireland (MHTI) has supported or led many community ventures to conserve, protect, interpret and promote local mining heritage throughout the country (such as at Allihies Man Engine House, Co. Cork or the Copper Coast, Co. Waterford). 

Identification of key mining heritage assets in the county should be a priority action in a County's Heritage Plan. The MHTI would be a key partner in such efforts, especially if funding could be made available to undertake inventory and survey work. MHTI can be contacted through their website below or through the Geoheritage Programme. Supporting locally driven efforts to offer sustainable tourism or alternative farm enterprises related to mine heritage could be an easily deliverable action.

If the county has very little mining heritage, whatever there is should be encompassed within a general inventory of industrial heritage.