Irish fans of “Star Wars” were ecstatic that some scenes from the latest film in the franchise would be filmed on Skellig Michael.
But trouble is brewing on the ancient island off the coast of Kerry and for once, Darth Vader can’t be held responsible. The island is a World Heritage Site, protected by UNESCO but there are now concerns that damage caused by the film crew could mean that it will lose this standing and be removed from the UNESCO list.
Environmental groups within Ireland have also expressed concern at the effect the filming might have on the island’s indigenous puffin community which is currently in the middle of its breeding season.
The film crew and actors have been arriving at the island all week so it remains to be seen whether these worries can be alleviated in time for filming to go ahead.