I have noted with great interest, the designation by the International Dark-Sky Association of an area of almost 700 square kilometres on the Iveragh Peninsula, County Kerry, as the first International Dark Sky Reserve in Ireland. I know that the Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve, which has been supported by Fáilte Ireland and Kerry County Council, is currently one of only three Gold Tier Dark-Sky Reserves in the world and the only one in the northern hemisphere. I agree that such a designation can benefit tourism in the region and can confirm that the tourism agencies are promoting the Reserve accordingly.
I have yet to experience all that the Reserve has to offer and should be happy to accept the Deputy’s invitation to view the sky-scapes in South Kerry. In this regard, I would ask that the Deputy please make direct contact with my Private Office to see if a visit could be incorporated into my schedule.