Michael Cahill (Kerry, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister of State. I cannot emphasise strongly enough the importance of Skellig Michael opening on time to the tourism industry in my county. It is fair to say they are very concerned. Every day, there is obviously a loss of earnings, and I ask the Minister of State to engage with his colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran, and ask that he do everything in his power to resolve this issue on time. I am aware of the legal proceedings but I am also acutely aware of the knock-on effect that the closure or any delay in the opening of Skellig Michael to visitor landings will have on the local economy.

I wish to re-emphasise the importance of Skellig Michael to our county and country. Visitors come from all over the world every year to specifically go there. They spend and stay, and they will always be welcome. It is absolutely critical that it is opened on 10 May.

I already mentioned poor weather conditions, etc. There are obviously many every season, particularly in recent seasons. I ask the Minister of State to engage with his ministerial colleague and ask him to do everything on behalf of the people of Kerry to get this wonderful amenity opened as soon as possible.

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