Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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536. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans for the Skelligs for 2021; the provisional open season date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15071/21]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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The Office of Public Works is focussed on working to reopen Skellig Michael to visitors in 2021.   This will require significant planning and engagement with OPW site staff and local stakeholders.  The exact date cannot be advised at this time as, once the weather is favourable and access to the island is possible, a full inspection will be required in addition to the usual requirement for pre-season essential maintenance works.  These works are required every year to make the site as safe as possible for visitors and staff following winter storms which inevitably cause some damage to steps, pathways, etc.  The successful completion of these works will decide the 2021 opening date for the island.

The re-opening of Skellig Michael to visitors will also obviously depend on the position in regard to any Covid-19 restrictions that may be in force and with which the OPW and other stakeholders will comply.