Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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17. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the up-to-date position regarding improvements to visitor facilities and conservation efforts on An Blascaod Mór; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22153/23]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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The conservation and protection of An Blascaod Mór continues to be of great importance to the OPW.  Visitor access to the island has resumed since April 2023, and a guide service is available on the island every day that boats can safely depart from Dun Chaoin pier.

OPW reached an agreement with a local landowner to provide toilet facilities for visitors for the 2023 season. This facility, which also includes an indoor shelter for visitors, was in place for the start of the season. in April 2023.  Work on progressing permanent welfare facilities for visitors are also being progressed.  

An Blascaod Mór has a rich biodiversity and wildlife presence. The OPW recently completed a biodiversity baseline study. A first draft has been received and a final report is expected in Q2 2023. This study will provide valuable data on the habitats and species present on the island, and also in the lands surrounding the Blasket Centre. This study will help the OPW to ensure that biodiversity on the Island is protected. 

Most visitors to the An Blascaod Mór take great care not to cause any damage to the biodiversity or the heritage buildings on the Island. During the winter, OPW has produced a leaflet to explain to visitors how to protect the wildlife and heritage on the island. This leaflet has been provided to the boat operators to share with visitors before they arrive on the island. The leaflet has been printed on biodegradable paper to minimise any potential environmental impact of providing this extra information to ensure the ongoing conservation of the Island.

Tenders have been invited for a new Conservation Management Plan (CMP). This plan will guide the development and care of the Island into the future. It is anticipated that a successful tenderer will be appointed by mid-2023, as there is a closing date for the receipt of tenders of 16th May. This plan will consider the elements of conservation, heritage protection, archaeology, transport planning, marine biology and environmental ecology in relation to the Island.

The plan will include a comprehensive inventory of the built and natural heritage of the Island. It will acknowledge the Island’s status as a Special Area of Conservation and a Natura 2000 site and its unique role in Irish cultural heritage. Work has already been undertaken to survey ‘An Dáil’, one of the most significant structures on the island. 

The OPW continues to plan for improved landing facilities on the Island. This would allow boats to land passengers directly to the island. These facilities are an essential element to the sustainable management of the island. 

Planning permission for a pier was previously granted in 2003. However, Kerry County Council have advised that is necessary to secure fresh planning permission. This is because there have been significant changes in the designated status of the island.  Environmental regulations have also changed in the period since the original permission was granted.

This will need new environmental and other reports to support such a planning application. A detailed solution for the design of these landing facilities is also required. The OPW has recently contacted relevant stakeholders.  A senior officials group has been convened to progress this objective, and consultants have been appointed to provide expert advice on ecological and planning issues related to the landing facilities.