Over 120 tourism businesses across South Kerry are calling for immediate action to resolve delays in the issuing of 2025 landing permits for Skellig Michael.
The Skellig Coast Tourism Network says it is seriously concerned and is seeking intervention to safeguard the upcoming tourism season.
The Skellig Coast Tourism Network says it has written to the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Fáilte Ireland to express its serious concern about the ongoing uncertainty posed by the delay in issuing landing permits.
In addition, the network has also sent letter to all local TDs, seeking urgent political intervention to safeguard the upcoming tourism season and the local economy.
Chairperson of the Skellig Coast Tourism Network, James Murphy says Skellig Michael is not just a national treasure, it’s the cornerstone of tourism across South Kerry.
He claims the failure to confirm permits for the upcoming season risks serious and lasting damage to businesses, livelihoods, and Ireland’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination.
He says as of today, boats are operating around Skellig Michael offering viewing tours, but no landings are allowed.
The network claims that Sceilg Mhichíl was scheduled to reopen for landings on May 10th, but it says that operators remain without the necessary permits, leaving the entire 2025 season in doubt.
James Murphy is calling for the Government to step-up, saying the immediate confirmation of temporary permits for 2025 is essential.
The Office of Public Works says it conducted a public competition to award permits to land at Scelig Mhichíl.
The OPW says this competition is now subject to legal proceedings and as such the Office of Public Works cannot comment.
