The hardy monks used to winter in Ballinskelligs. They’d come in from the Rock as the weather turned nasty at the darkest time of year. And then, when the Skellig could no longer be inhabited at all, they moved lock, stock and barrel into Ballinskelligs and established an abbey.

The Office of Public Works had issued a ban on all boats from landing on Skellig Michael until further notice or without express permission due to what are described as “extremely dangerous” conditions.

The song remains the same?