THE controversy surrounding a World Heritage Site in Kerry has prompted a top-level international committee to investigate the case.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has confirmed that it is to send a representative to investigate matters on the Skellig Michael site.
Recent adverse comments led to UNESCO, along with the International Council on Monuments and Sites, accepting an invitation from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to examine the island.
The invitation was extended to enable UNESCO to view the conservation works on the island in the context of the drafting of a management plan.
Senior official Tom Hassell has been nominated by UNESCO to visit the island and he will also take the opportunity to speak to parties, who expressed concerns regarding works on the island, on November 26-28.
The Department of the Environment has welcomed the positive response to the public consultation phase of the draft management plan for the Skellig Michael site.
September 28 was the ultimate deadline for receipt of comments regarding the draft management plan and 30 submissions were received by the department. According to an official, there was a wide and varied scope to the submissions received, comprising significant input from community interest groups, professional and technical personnel and professional institutes as well as the wider public.
“The comments received are under examination in the Department and where appropriate will be taken on board in finalising the management plan,” said a spokesman for the department.
The drafting of the management plan is a very important process to help safeguard the future of this World Heritage Site, according to the official.
“The conservation of this magnificent early medieval island monastic site reflects the government’s commitment to the protection of Ireland’s unique cultural and natural heritage,” the department representative added.
