Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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79. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will facilitate access to a site (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1984/15]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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The opening and closing dates of Skellig Michael for visitors in 2015 will be 15th May and 30th September. Previous attempts to remain open later in the season have inevitably led to a curtailment at short notice due to adverse weather conditions. Accordingly it is not proposed to extend the season into October in 2015.

As is normal, the effective operational date for the Monument is approximately two to three weeks in advance of the public opening and the Office of Public Works staff will therefore be travelling to the island from approximately late April / early May, weather permitting. This is so that the site can be prepared to receive visitors and significant Health and Safety preparations for the season carried out. The site will be fully assessed after the winter, any hazards cleared from public areas and any necessary repairs carried out.

Given the need for these essential preparatory works in advance of opening the island to the public, and having regard to dependence on weather, I regret that it is not possible to open the island earlier.