OPW responds to proposals to issue temporary permits for reopening of season at Sceilg Mhichíl

The Office of Public Works (OPW) has reaffirmed its commitment to reopening Sceilg Mhichíl at the earliest possible date in accordance with legal and regulatory frameworks.

Under Irish and EU law, the proceedings brought by three unsuccessful tenderers mean that the OPW is prevented from issuing permits for summer 2025, until the proceedings are resolved or unless the High Court gives permission to issue permits.

The OPW and its legal team have addressed proposals presented by the three unsuccessful bidders in the open competition, who are party to the legal proceedings, to issue temporary permits to land on the island. This process is ongoing.

The OPW has lodged a motion before the High Court seeking permission to issue Sceilg Mhichíl boat operator permits for summer 2025 to the successful applicants in the competition.

A date for the High Court to hear the OPW motion to lift the suspension has been assigned for either 3 or 4 June 2025.

The OPW is acutely aware of the key role the Island plays in the tourism economy of South Kerry and the wider region. In an attempt to resolve the situation, the OPW has made urgent applications to the High Court requesting permission to lift the injunction in place (also known as a suspension).

If the injunction/suspension is lifted, this will enable the OPW to issue permits to the 15 applicants who were successful in the competition, on the terms advertised in the competition.

The OPW has been making all necessary preparations, subject to the High Court decision, so that Sceilg Mhichíl can be opened. The OPW conservation team, made up of architects, stonemasons and a safety expert, has been on the Island for some weeks preparing for the reopening of the Island to visitors. The annual post-winter check-up and maintenance is underway. This maintenance programme covers the East, South and North Steps, the monastery and all the structures on the South Peak including the pier.

Likewise, the OPW visitor experience guide team has been completing the required intensive training to prepare for the forthcoming season including certified rope access handling training, sea-survival training, first aid wilderness training and VHF (radio communications) training. This is bespoke, specific guide training for Sceilg Mhichíl that must be undertaken by staff prior to the Island opening to visitors.