The OPW has confirmed that a sixth century monastic site is being made available for a film shoot amid mounting speculation this morning that Co Kerry's dramatic Skellig Michael monastery is to be the location for scenes for the new Star Wars 7.
Both the Kerry’s Eye Newspaper and Radio Kerry news are reporting the island rising dramatically from the Atlantic west of Valentia is to be the location for part of the film, scenes from which have already been shot in Abu Dhabi and London.
In a statement, the Office of Public Works confirmed the home of a 6th century monastic settlement has been made available for a film production shoot.
The statement also said this production is being fully supported by the Department of Arts Heritage and the Gaeltacht and the Irish Film Board.
Local boatmen in Portmagee have reached an agreement with the film crew regarding arrangements for ferrying them and equipment to the island for the shoot which is due to begin shortly.
In 1996 Skellig Michael was inscribed on the Unesco World Heritage List.
Filming on the much-anticipated Star Wars 7 commenced earlier this year at locations in Abu Dhabi and in studios in London.