No plans to re-open Skellig Michael

CALLS have been made for the UNESCO world heritage site of Skellig Michael to be re-opened this summer.

The hugely popular tourism site has been closed by the OPW for the summer due to the COVID-19 pandemic as the island would not allow for social distancing, they said.

However, since the decision was made, the Government has re-opened the country more quickly than was originally anticipated, and all tourism sites will be opened by the end of the month.

Cllr Norma Moriarty (FF) raised concerns about the closure at A recent Kerry County Council meeting and said that the site should be re-opened in line with other tourism sites.

Her calls have also been raised with the Department of Heritage and the OPW by local TDs, including Deputy Danny Healy-Rae.

Junior Minister Brendan Griffin also said this week he felt that the closure should be re-examined in light of the easing of restrictions. The OPW highlighted COVID-19 concerns about the tourism attraction including on the journey to Skellig Michael. Boat trips are allowed around the island but not onto the island. The OPW also said that there are risks to the on-island guide staff.

“The OPW has taken this decision extremely reluctantly, mindful of the iconic place Skellig Michael holds in the minds of visitors and Irish citizens alike,” it said in a statement in May. The closure of the island affects 15 local boatmen, who will be without a job for the summer if the island remains closed to visitors.