Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2013
138. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the reason the guide season at an Office of Public Work site (details supplied) in County Kerry was extended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23435/13]
View answerThe season at the site in question, Gallarus Oratory, has not been extended. The site was open to guided visitors form 31st May to 29th August in 2012 and the 2013 season will run from 30th May to 28th August. The opening and closing dates of Skellig Michael for visitors in 2013 will be 17th May to 30th September. In relation to extending the season at Skellig Michael, attempts have been made in previous years to extend the season into October. This has not proven to be successful due to weather conditions while also incurring the considerable costs associated with having a substantially extended visitor season.
As is normal, the effective operational date for Skellig Michael is required to be approx 2 to 3 weeks in advance of the public opening with Office of Public Works staff travelling to the island early, weather permitting. This is so that the site can be prepared to receive visitors and significant Health and Safety preparations for the season carried out. In particular, the site is fully assessed after the winter, any hazards cleared from the steps and other public areas and any necessary minor repairs carried out. Given these requirements it is not possible to present the site to the public any earlier than 17th May.
