Bathing waters in mayo meet new stricter standards

FIFTEEN of the EU identified bathing waters in Co. Mayo have achieved compliance with the new stricter standards of 'Excellent' or ‘Good’ bathing water quality, according to the most recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report.

The report - The Quality of Bathing Water in Ireland, 2014 - gave an ‘Excellent’ standard to Bertra Beach, Murrisk; Carrowmore Beach, Louisburgh; Carrowniskey, Louisburgh; Clare Island; Dooega Beach, Achill; Dugort Beach, Achill; Elly Bay, Belmullet; Mulranny Beach; Rinroe Beach, Carrowtigue; and Ross Beach, Killala.

Bathers in Mayo can check current bathing water quality at beaches in the county using the Splash website, http://splash.epa.ie. Before deciding on the best place to swim, you can find the latest reported water quality and check if there is any bathing water warning or notification in place at your chosen location.

Throughout 2014, local authorities tested 136 EU-identified bathing waters together with many other smaller or less well used waters, with 94% of identified bathing areas meeting new stricter EU standards. These standards are almost twice as strict as those previously applied.

Commenting on the 2014 water quality results, Peter Webster, senior environmental scientist, commented: “We would hope that all visitors to beaches in Co. Mayo can enjoy good quality bathing water and clean, modern facilities, knowing that their health and the environment are being protected.

“Splash can help families, holiday makers and bathers in Mayo by providing current information on identified bathing waters and the latest water quality at their local beaches. We would also encourage Mayo residents to download and use the ‘See it? Say it!' app. We all have a role in protecting the environment and the app will help those enjoying the summer sun to easily report environmental incidents whether at the beach or taking a stroll in the countryside. By taking a quick photo and adding a few details, this app makes it easier to make an environmental complaint about issues such as dumping of litter, and empowers people to take pride in their environment and to report these matters to local authorities.”

For more information on the report, see www.epa.ie.