Sandymount fails water quality test

TWO prominent Southside beaches have failed to make the grade in a report released last week by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The report, Bathing Water Quality in Ireland in 2017, found that the overall quality of the country’s bathing waters remains good with 132 of 142 identified waters meeting strict EU standards. These standards, the report says, provide a high level of protection for bathers. 

Nearly three quarters of bathing waters were classed as ‘excellent’ with 102 beaches and bathing waters meeting the standard – the same number as in 2016. However, seven coastal bathing waters failed to meet the minimum standard and were classified as poor.

Five of the seven beaches are in Dublin and include Sandymount and Merrion Strands. Sandymount Strand joined the list in 2017 after being classified as sufficient in 2015 and 2016.

The EPA report shows that these waters are all vulnerable to pollution events. However, it noted that the relevant local authorities, in conjunction 

with Irish Water, have plans in place to tackle the main pollution risks at these beaches with a view to improving them to at least ‘sufficient’ quality.

Andy Fanning, Programme Manager of the EPA’s Office of Evidence and Assessment, said: “Our assessment shows that urban beaches are under greater pressure than those in more rural locations. More needs to be done to eliminate the sources of bacterial contamination that are particular to urban locations. 

“The main issues are misconnections to surface water drains and other run-off from urban environments, together with sewage discharges. Work is needed by local authorities, Irish Water, businesses and homeowners to ensure that contaminated wastewater is correctly collected and treated before being released into the environment.” 

During the summer, up to date water quality information and details of any incidents affecting bathing waters can be found on the website www.beaches.ie. 

The EPA urged the public to always check the noticeboard at their local beaches for current information on water quality.