A third unsuccessful applicant in the Sceilg Mhichíl boat permit competition has begun High Court proceedings.
That's according to the Office of Public works (OPW), which asked the High Court on Wednesday (7 May) for permission to issue permits to those who were successful in the recent application process.
The UNESCO World Heritage site had been due to reopen to tourists this weekend, but this has been delayed due to the legal disputes.
In late 2024, the OPW ran a competition to award 15 permits to boat operators to bring visitors to Skellig Michael from summer 2025 onwards.
In April, two unsuccessful participants challenged the outcome of the competition in the High Court.
On Wednesday (7th May), the OPW filed a motion seeking permission to issue permits for summer 2025 to the successful applicants, claiming it is aware of the island's vital role in the South Kerry economy and the wider tourist region.
Yesterday (8th May), a third unsuccessful participant filed further High Court proceedings.
Under Irish and EU law, the OPW cannot issue the permits until the legal cases are resolved, unless the court gives permission to proceed.
It claims the number of permits is limited to protect the fragile ecosystem of Sceilg Mhichíl.
The OPW states it has made all necessary preparations to reopen the island, subject to the court's decision.
Its conservation team of architects, stonemasons, and a safety expert, has been working on the island for several weeks to prepare for re-opening.
Annual post-winter maintenance is ongoing and includes work on the east, south, and north steps, the monastery, and structures on the South Peak, including the pier.
Additionally, the OPW's visitor guide team has completed training in rope access, sea survival, wilderness first aid and radio communications, which is required before the site can reopen to the public.
