Office of Public Works

Thursday, 17 June 2021

Questions (138)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

138. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans for Sceilig Mhichíl for the 2021 season; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32348/21]

View answer

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

At the beginning of the month, the 21st June 2021 was announced as a target date for the re-opening of Skellig Michael to visitors. This date was of course, dependent on weather conditions being favourable, allowing works to progress in a timely manner prior to opening.

While preparatory work has commenced on the island, delays have resulted due to necessary monitoring of the bird population on the island as well as the completion of the digital survey of the monastery. In addition, weather conditions have been unfavourable, reducing the time OPW operatives could obtain access to the site for works. The progress of these works is under constant review and discussions remain ongoing regarding the re-opening of the site to visitors at a time atthe soonest time that it is deemed safe to do so

The revised target date for the re-opening of the island to visitors is 1st July 2021.