2024 ICPC EC Meeting to be held in October at the Valentia Island Subsea Cable Station.

The ICPC Executive Committee (EC) will convene for its annual October meeting on Valentia Island, Ireland, at the historic Valentia Island Transatlantic Cable Station. This venue was chosen to support its bid for UNESCO World Heritage status. Following the meeting, the EC was invited to participate in the exclusive Valentia Island Subsea Cable Symposium from 10-12 October 2024. This inaugural symposium aims to unite stakeholders from both public and private sectors to discuss subsea cable security and resilience from diverse perspectives. It is hosted by the Valentia Transatlantic Cable Foundation and organised by a coalition of Irish and international researchers and industry professionals.

The Valentia Transatlantic Cable Station’s consideration for UNESCO World Heritage status highlights its significance not only as a remarkable technological achievement but also as a symbol of human progress and international cooperation. The recognition of this site would honor its historical importance, ensure its preservation, and enhance its educational and cultural value.

The first transatlantic telegraph cable began between Valentia Island, Ireland, and Newfoundland, Canada, transformed global communication, reducing transmission time from weeks to mere minutes. This achievement marked a technological revolution that profoundly influenced global commerce. Supporting Valentia Island’s UNESCO World Heritage bid is a way to celebrate this milestone, inspire future generations to value and advance our shared heritage.