OPW pushes to reopen Irish landmark to tourists

The Office of Public Works (OPW) has applied to the High Court for permission to issue boat operator permits for one of Ireland’s most iconic offshore landmarks for the summer season, following legal challenges from unsuccessful applicants in a recent licensing competition.

The OPW ran a competition in late 2024 to allocate 15 permits for boat operators to access the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sceilg Mhicíl, with the number of permits strictly capped to safeguard the island’s fragile ecosystem.

In April this year, two unsuccessful applicants initiated High Court proceedings contesting the outcome of the competition. Under Irish and EU law, these legal challenges prevent the OPW from issuing any permits until the cases are resolved or unless the court grants specific permission to proceed.

On Wednesday, the OPW filed a motion seeking court approval to issue permits to the successful applicants. A day later, a third unsuccessful competitor lodged a separate High Court challenge. Given that the matter is now before the courts, the OPW has declined to comment further.

Despite the ongoing legal process, the OPW has continued preparations to reopen the island for visitors this season, pending the court’s decision. Conservation teams — including architects, stonemasons, and safety experts — have been carrying out essential maintenance across key areas such as the East, South and North Steps, the monastery, the South Peak structures, and the island’s pier.

Meanwhile, OPW guides have been undergoing specialised training required for work on Sceilg Mhicíl, including rope access handling, sea survival, wilderness first aid, and VHF radio communications.

On Friday, the OPW acknowledged the pivotal role Sceilg Mhicíl plays in South Kerry’s tourism economy and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the island is ready to welcome visitors, subject to the outcome of the High Court proceedings.

Skellig Michael (Sceilg Mhicíl), also known as Great Skellig, is a twin-peaked rocky island located 11.6 kilometres off the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry.