Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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137. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his Department incurred additional costs in 2012 for a site (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23434/13]

Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Each year, prior to the Visitor Season on Skellig Michael, the Office of Public Works (OPW) carries out routine maintenance tasks on the Island to ensure that any damage to the Monument is assessed, any debris of winter storms is cleared away, the Island is made safe for workers and visitors and that the OPW accommodation on the island is readied for season use. In certain years, more work is required than normal.

The accommodation on Skellig Michael is designed for use by OPW maintenance and works staff, Guides, visiting personnel from other Agencies and bodies and occasional parties visiting for research or other sanctioned purposes. The relevant appointment of the cost of this accommodation between the various users is not feasible.

The cost of essential pre-season works in 2012 was €10,523.54. This was higher than normal as a number of equipment and infrastructure items were also replaced.