A Kerry TD from Rossbeigh has appealed for Sceilg Mhichíl to be opened to visitors on 10th May as planned.
Deputy Michael Cahill raised the matter in the Dáil with the Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development, Jerry Buttimer.
He told the chamber that the local economy heavily relies on Skellig Michael, with many businesses and families dependent on tourism for their livelihoods.
At present, the Office of Public Works has not yet issued the licences required to boat people to the island, following legal disputes with would-be operators.
The Fianna Fáil TD for Kerry said that the economic damage caused by not reopening the UNESCO World Heritage Site to visitors would be wide-ranging and long-lasting:
Deputy Michael Cahill called on the minister responsible for the OPW, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, “to do everything in his power” to resolve the issue of Sceilg Mhichíl opening in time for the 2025 visitor season.
In response, Junior Minister Jerry Buttimer said that the department is aware of its importance to the local economy, but stated it could not comment further due to legal proceedings:
