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Heritage Sites

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 February 2014

Tuesday, 25 February 2014

Questions (355)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

355. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8715/14]

View answer

Written answers

The position in relation to funding for the operations at Skellig Michael and other Heritage sites under the care of the OPW remains challenging in 2014, with fewer resources available to run the sites this year than in 2013.

In addition, given the recent extremely poor weather, it is also apparent that there can be no guarantee that staff and visitors will be in a position to access the site with any regularity during the April / May period and the outlook in terms of being able to bring staff and visitors safely to the Island in the earlier part of the year remains deeply uncertain.

Given these circumstances. it has been decided to maintain the opening date for the Island for 2014 at mid May, with the most likely date being 16th May. The commencement of operations on this date however is contingent on OPW maintenance staff being able to access the site for a sufficient period prior to this in order to perform essential maintenance, safety preparation and winter debris clearance tasks in order to render the site fit to receive visitors safely. If OPW staff is unable to reach the Island in a timely way to perform these tasks, or if it is delayed in its completion by adverse weather, the proposed opening date may not be feasible. However, in line with its general policy of facilitating the greatest possible access to the Monument, the OPW will commit to do all possible to achieve this date. As is normal, the precise opening date will be publicised locally in the media and on www.heritageireland.ie when it has been finally determined.

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