Skellig Michael is set to reopen for the new tourist season next month, with the iconic island off the Co Kerry coast taking part in a new global climate change project.
The UNESCO World Heritage site, which was used as a backdrop in 2017 Star Wars movie, The Last Jedi, will welcome visitors from May 13, with access "dependent on favourable weather, sea and island conditions".
Managed by the Republic's Office of Public Works (OPW), the island is described by its minister, Patrick O’Donovan as "one of Ireland’s most iconic heritage sites" which plays a vital tourism role.
Also referred to by its Gaelic name Sceilg Mhichíl, the island is one of ten sites worldwide participating in the Preserving Legacies: A Future For Our Past project, which aims to help regions protect historical sites from the ravages of climate change.
Mr O'Donovan said his office was "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".