The closure of Skellig Michael to landings is a crime. It is having a detrimental effect on the local economy and the economies of Iveragh, south Kerry and the entire county. People come from every corner of the world to visit this very special, majestic place, which is a UNESCO world heritage site. The knock-on effect this is having, not just on boat operators, but on local hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, shops, restaurants, pubs, filling stations, etc., cannot be calculated. I ask the Taoiseach and the Minister of State, Kevin Boxer Moran, to do everything humanly possible to get this open as soon as possible. I cannot emphasise it strongly enough. That is why I am raising the importance of reopening it yet again in this House. Could the court case be brought forward?

First, I thank Deputy Cahill, who has been raising the issue of the UNESCO world heritage site of Sceilg Mhichíl persistently. As he knows, the Office of Public Works conserves and manages the UNESCO site.

The boat permit system was originally introduced to improve health and safety on the journey to and during visitation of the island. In December 2024, the OPW advertised a competition via the e-tenders system to award 15 permits for a five-year period. This process concluded in April 2025. Two unsuccessful applicants initiated High Court proceedings challenging the outcome and on 8 May a third unsuccessful applicant launched a further challenge. I would hope common sense would prevail here, the original decisions would be allowed to take their course and people would be allowed to take visitors out to Sceilg Mhichíl. It is very disappointing for visitors to the Iveragh Peninsula, many of whom come to visit Sceilg Mhichíl only to discover they cannot.

The time is up, Taoiseach. I call Deputy Rory Hearne.

I would hope common sense would prevail.