News
Skellig Michael to reopen to visitors next month
Skellig Michael will welcome visitors back to the island for the 2023 season on Saturday, May 13.
The Office of Public Works (OPW), which manages the UNESCO World Heritage site, stated that, as always, access will be dependent on favourable weather, sea and island conditions.
“I am very pleased to announce the reopening to visitors of this unique world heritage site for the summer season," Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, 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.”
Referencing the site’s participation in a global initiative to safeguard cultural landmarks from the effects of climate change, Minister O’Donovan said Sceilg Mhichíl is "undoubtedly one of the most challenging sites in the care of the OPW".
"Our team carries out tremendous work against the severe challenges of its location, isolation and unpredictable weather conditions to ensure safe access for visitors and the protection of the island’s heritage.”
Sceilg Mhichíl is one of 10 sites worldwide participating in the Preserving Legacies: A Future For Our Past project.
The project will equip communities worldwide with the tools to accurately anticipate and assess worsening and future climate impacts on culture, and help them turn that scientific knowledge into action to safeguard sites.
The OPW, National Monuments Service (NMS) and National Park and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will develop the scientific knowledge and technical training of site management teams and the local community at Sceilg Mhichíl to develop place and people-based climate change adaptation plans for the islands.
“As custodians of this World Heritage property we in the OPW, alongside NMS and NPWS, are privileged to work with others around the globe in this important project, strengthening our engagement with the community of south Kerry in terms of the island’s value and significance.”
All prospective visitors are encouraged to view the Sceilg Mhichíl Safety Video prior to booking a visit to the island to get an idea of what to expect.
For example, a visit to the monastery on the island will entail a climb of 618 steps, ascending over 600 ft. (180 metres). It is a demanding climb and any person with health issues should consider carefully their own physical limitations before exploring this part of the site.
Advance booking is essential and details can be found at https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/Sceilg Mhichíl/
Glenflesk GAA hosts cardiac screening clinic
Glenflesk GAA Healthy Club recently welcomed the Dillon Quirke Foundation to run a cardiac screening clinic for its young members.
A total of 45 club players aged 12 to 18 underwent vital heart checks designed to promote early detection and heart health awareness among young athletes.
Medical personnel from Advanced Medical Services conducted the screenings with professionalism and care, while the club’s Healthy Club Team oversaw the smooth operation of the event.
The Dillon Quirke Foundation operates without government funding, relying entirely on public support to raise awareness of Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS) and provide non-cost cardiac clinics to sports clubs across Ireland.
Glenflesk GAA encourages anyone wishing to support the foundation’s ongoing screening work to consider making a donation online at dillonquirkefoundation.com.
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