SANDS OF GRIME
3 beaches lose coveted Blue Flags
THREE popular beaches in Ireland have been forced to lower their coveted Blue Flag.
The dip in standards was reported at Lisfannon, Co Donegal, Killiney in South Dublin and Balcarrick at Donabate, North Dublin. But Ireland still managed to hit a record high for the quality and cleanliness of coastal waters with a total of 88 Blue Flags to be raised at 81 beaches and seven marinas this summer. Director of An Taisce’s environmental education unit Dr Michael John O’mahony paid tribute to the thousands of volunteers involved in beach clean-ups. He said: “It is the work of local authorities and clean coasts volunteers that ensures Ireland’s fantastic beaches remain clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.” The awards were launched by Senator Jerry Buttimer in the Royal Cork Yacht Club in Crosshaven, Co Cork. He added: “Over the years the programme has become a highly respected and recognised eco-label working to bring together the tourism and environmental sectors. “There are also very tangible economic benefits to be derived from our marvellous coastal environment and quality facilities, both at local, regional and national levels.” An Taisce awarded three more Blue Flags than the 2016 season with Portumna in Co Galway and Greencastle Marina, Co Donegal, hoisting the international hallmark for the first time. The South promenade in Bray, Co Wicklow, will fly the flag for the first time since 2000 after improvements in sewage treatment in recent years. Ross Beach, near Killala in Co Mayo, regained the Blue Flag status it had lost
Fantastic beaches remain clean & safe for everyone to enjoy DR MICHAEL JOHN O’MAHONY YESTERDAY
in 2016 as did the South coast surf spots of Redbarn and Garretstown in Co Cork. The Co Kerry coast came out on top with 13 beaches and one marina getting to fly the flag this year. An Taisce also handed out 61 Green Coast Awards, an increase of five on last year and the highest number to date. They are given to locations which do not have the facilities for Blue Flag status but are recognised for their cleanliness, excellent water quality and natural beauty. The Blue Flag is awarded to more than 4,000 beaches and marinas in 49 countries across Europe, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada and the Caribbean.