An Taisce strikes back over ‘Star Wars’ shoot

Ireland’s heritage watchdog has raised concerns about further filming of Star Wars on Skellig Michael off the Kerry coast.

An Taisce has written to the Minister for Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht, Heather Humphreys, asking her to explain why she was allowing the Disney project on the world heritage site.

The National Trust for Ireland is particularly worried about rats accidentally getting onto the island — a site of exceptionally importance. Heritage officer, Ian Lumley, said it was crucial that the island remains rat-free so birds that are unique to Skellig Michael could continue to breed there.