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'Livelihoods at risk' from delay in Skellig Michael ferries case, judge says

Summary

In a High Court hearing on 3 June 2025, Mr Justice Garret Simons considered whether to lift a suspension on 15 boating permits for ferries to and from Skellig Michael, a UNESCO heritage island. The permits had been withheld while a judicial review of the Office of Public Works' (OPW) tendering process was pending. Two companies that lost the 2025 season tender—Skellig Michael Boat Trips and Atlantic Endeavour Limited—had challenged the OPW's decision, arguing the process was deficient and lacked transparency. The OPW claimed that Irish and EU law prevented it from issuing permits until the legal dispute was resolved. Mr Justice Simons expressed surprise at the OPW's claim that preparing the case would take six months, describing the matter as "the most straightforward case of competition for licences". He ordered the case to be heard next month, gave it top priority, and said he would rule on Thursday whether to lift the suspension.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: 'Livelihoods at risk' from delay in Skellig Michael ferries case, judge says. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• April 2025 Hearing Or Sentence
• July 21 Adjournment
• 2025-06-03 Publication

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

Read the original CNI report