Boat operators, business owners and local residents were among those who took part in a protest calling for landing permits for Skellig Michael to be issued immediately.
Sceilg Mhichíl was due to reopen on May 10th but landing permits have yet to be issued, following a legal dispute.
Only tours around the island are currently going ahead.
Skellig Coast Tourism Network which represents over 120 tourism businesses, organised a protest for yesterday evening to highlight the impact this delay is causing.
This protest saw boat operations from Portmagee, Valentia Island and Derrynane, accompanied by business owners, local residents, tourists and supporters, travel to Skellig Michael yesterday evening and circle the island.
Video credit to SKELLIG SKIES
The Office of Public Works says it can’t issue permits to the successful applicants until the legal cases are resolved; three unsuccessful applicants have taken legal action.
The OPW has lodged a motion before the High Court which, if successful, would allow it issue permits to successful Skellig Michael boat operators; this will be heard in early June.
The Skellig Coast Tourism Network says the turnout at the protest showed a united front, with all those affected standing together to demand urgent action.
The network claims several workable solutions have been put forward.
The Skellig Coast Tourism Network is urgently calling for temporary landing permits to be issued, they want direct engagement from the OPW, a clear roadmap to resolve the current situation as well as a commitment that this won’t happen again.
The network has launched a petition which it says is getting widespread support.
Image provided by the Skellig Coast Tourism Network
Image provided by the Skellig Coast Tourism Network
Image provided by the Skellig Coast Tourism Network
