Services at beaches could be in from June next year

SERVICES such as portable toilets and the provision of beach wardens and lifeguards could be in place from June next year at the county’s beaches.

At present, they are only deployed from July but this year’s exceptionally hot weather saw an need much earlier.

Councillor Marie Casserly enquired of there could be a rolling option for portaloos to be available at Streedagh beach and possibly at other beaches should the weather be exceptionally good from the start of June next year.

“Given the success of the Wild Atlantic Way we are seeing an increased number of visitors to our beaches and the need for toilet facilities are greater as a result,” said Cllr Casserly.

She was informed that over the last number of years portable toilets were in place in Streedagh and Dunmoran in July and August and this was seen as adequate.

“However, the recent exceptionally good weather has proven quite difficult for the Environment Section whereby arrangements were changed at very short notice regrading the provision of portaloos, lifeguard and beach warden cover.

“Going forward, in the event of further unprecedented weather, budgets and arrangements will need to be reviewed in order to allow for the early deployment of provisions from June,” said a report read to the meeting by Acting Director of Services, Tom Brennan.