merrion street

Mr. Patrick O’Donovan T.D., Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW), has announced a target date of 21 June 2021 for the reopening of Skellig Michael to public visitors. The OPW’s work crews are currently on site undertaking preparatory health and safety works prior to reopening, and as things stand, it is likely that the target date will be achieved. The reopening date is, of course, subject to weather conditions remaining favourable for works on the island and intending visitors are advised to consult HeritageIreland.ie for updates ahead of planning their visit.

Making the announcement today, Minister O’Donovan said: “I am very pleased to be able to share this much-anticipated good news with holidaymakers eager to visit Skellig Michael this summer and with the rural communities who rely on tourism to the island. I myself look forward to visiting this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site soon and I hope that weather conditions will allow OPW staff to complete the required preparatory works so the reopening can go ahead on 21 June. Thanks to the progress we have made on the path to recovery, we will have the opportunity to discover and enjoy national treasures such as these over the coming months.”

ENDS

For further information, or if you wish to discuss further with Minister O’Donovan please contact the OPW Press Office at pressoffice@opw.ie or 087 147 0617. 

Minister O’Donovan is available for interview on Wednesday, 2 June.