Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Griffin. I have asked the Chairman of the Office of Public Works to review its decision in regard to this site. We are taking the matter very seriously. It is hoped that the review process will be completed before the end of July, which is only a couple of days away. It is worth pointing out that the Skelligs is unique in terms of its UNESCO status and in terms of access, which is through collaboration between the Office of Public Works and the local boatmen who have to be consulted. There are a range of views within that cohort of people as well that we have to taken on board. It is also worth pointing out that because of its uniqueness and its location in the Atlantic, which can be very wild, up to 40% of tourist days in any season can often be lost due to bad weather. We are conscious of the need for social distancing. We have to operate within the Government guidelines and to be cognisant of the staff manning the boats and those who are responsible for the Skelligs.

We also have to be cognisant of our wider role as custodians of a national monument that has a particular economic and tourism potential, not only for south Kerry but for the wider country. As Minister of State with responsibility for it, I am very conscious of it, together with the commissioners of the OPW to ensure the best possible presentation of our national monuments and heritage sites, not only Sceilg Mhichíl but the others too, especially in the context of what remains of the tourism season for 2020.

See this speech in context