MYSTERY surrounds the identity of the new owners of Devenish Island. 
It’s understood the bulk of the island, one of the most iconic sights in Fermanagh, is in the process of being transferred from Kilravock Trust, a Christian Trust based in Scotland, to new owners.
Limited detail was included in correspondence to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council from the Department for Communities last month.
The letter was sent to the Council after councillors outlined their concerns about the site, including Ulster Unionist’s Howard Thornton who publicly stated that it was “untidy and poorly maintained.”
And last August it emerged that the ferry service had stopped due to “budgetary pressures.”
In the letter, sent on behalf of Minister Paul Givan, Private Secretary Pamela Baxter wrote: “The island, and in particular the monastic site is indeed a very important historic monument and a beautiful area to visit. I understand that ownership of the bulk of the island is in the process of being transferred; Departmental officials have asked for an early meeting with the new owners to explore options to realise further the beauty and importance of the island.”
The Impartial Reporter attempted to obtain information on the new owners this week. 
Meanwhile, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council could be drafted in to help deliver “community and economic benefits” of local tourist attractions in Fermanagh, such as Devenish Island.
The letter from the Department for Communities hinted at a possible link up with the Council.
“With the Council’s remit for local tourism, I believe that there is more that we can do – together – to realise the community and economic value of key monuments in your Council’s area, including Devenish but also other important sites including Monea Castle, Tully Castle and Knockmany. All of these have significant opportunities for delivering community and economic benefits; but all have significant challenges due to the nature of the monuments and/or their location.”
The letter explained that after difficulties with putting a grounds maintenance contract in place, staff of the Historic Environment Division, formerly of Department of Environment, now Department for Communities, have brought presentation of the site back up to a good standard. 
“We have also worked with private boat operators to provide access for visitors to the island, rather than seek to compete with them. One of the operators is opening and closing the visitor facilities on the island and is transporting significant numbers of visitors from Enniskillen to the island.”
The Department is also looking at future possibilities for a new ferry pick up service for Devenish Island such as an operator recommencing a service from close to Enniskillen Castle.
The letter finished by saying that the the current change of ownership of the bulk of Devenish Island and the interest by private boat operators “provides the opportunity for a fresh look at how best we present and market Devenish Island.”