Unesco is sending an inspector to examine Ireland's world heritage site at Skellig Michael off the Kerry coast later this month.
The United Nations organisation, which works to ensure protection of natural and cultural heritage, has notified the Department of the Environment.
The department is currently preparing a management plan for the site. This follows controversy within archaeological circles over the methodology used by the Office of Public Works (OPW) to conserve the sixth- to eighth-century monastic location.
Several months ago, an independent archaeologist filed complaints to Unesco and to Minister for the Environment John Gormley over aspects of conservation work being carried out on the rock by the OPW.
Connemara-based archaeologist Michael Gibbons said that "fly-tipping" by OPW contractors was "partially destroying" the only unreconstructed part of the world heritage site.
Last year, Mr Gibbons questioned the lack of a management plan for the restoration and claimed accidental damage had been caused to the island's South Peak oratory or hermitage.
Mr Gibbons said independent evaluation of work, as required by Unesco, was critical to preventing over-restoration. No restoration should be done beyond the "absolute minimum necessary".
OPW archaeological and architectural staff described Mr Gibbons's comments as "ill-informed and unjustified".
Former minister for the environment Dick Roche commissioned a draft management plan.
His successor, Mr Gormley, is now assessing some 28 submissions made as part of a public consultation phase.
An Taisce has called for an independent appraisal of the management of the works being carried out on Skellig Michael.
