POPULAR IRISH visitor attraction Sceilg Mhichíl is set to reopen in early July following a rockfall event in last month which forced its closure for health and safety reasons.
Occurring on 13 June, the rockfall necessitated the temporary closure of the island to visitors with the Office of Public Works (OPW) working to progress investigations and safety measures to restore safe access to Sceilg Mhichíl as soon as possible.
Specialist teams are on site to visually assess and remove debris and it is hoped visitors will be able to return back on Saturday, 2 July.
In all rockfall events, even minor ones, comprehensive expert-led investigations are carried out.
Minister with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Patrick O’Donovan, T.D., said:
“Sceilg Mhichíl is one of Ireland’s most iconic heritage sites and plays an important role in the local tourism economy, which we are proud to support through this and other OPW sites in the county.
"We thank our local partners for their continued assistance in managing unforeseen incidents like these or adverse weather events in what is a challenging natural environment. Together with them, we look forward to the reopening of Sceilg Mhichíl at the start of July so that visitors can enjoy safe access to the island again this summer in addition to the other beautiful attractions in South Kerry.”
The attraction had only been open for one month for the 2022 season when the rockfall occurred.
The reopening date of 2 July is subject to weather conditions remaining favourable.
