Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2018
193. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 250 of 11 September 2017 and 90 of 11 October 2017, if the Skellig Michael season will be extended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3971/18]
View answerBefore a likely date can be announced, staff from the Office of Public Works and the National Monuments’ Service of the Department of Culture Heritage and the Gaeltacht must land on the island, assess any weathering damage to it over the winter months, complete an assessment of the work necessary to rectify that, and estimate the effort necessary to make the pier, slipway, landing areas and pathways safe for visitors. These undertakings vary in complexity, duration and cost and are dependent on the severity of the weather over the winter months and during the preparatory period. Staff will be not be in a position to visit the island until at least mid March, as is normally the case. In the Seasonal preparatory arrangements, of singular importance is the need to be satisfied as to the health and safety of OPW and Departmental staff, contractors and guides on the island, particularly given its exposure to the elements and its distance from the mainland.
