Louth has retained the Blue Flag award for 2023 for its beaches at Clogherhead, Port and Templetown, and the Green Coast award for 2023 for the beach at Seapoint, Termonfeckin while, in County Meath, Bettystown has been awarded a Green Coast Award for the first time.
A total of 159 awards were presented by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Mr. Darragh O’Brien, TD, at an awards ceremony held in the Shoreline Hotel, overlooking Donabate’s Balcarrick Blue Flag beach in Co. Dublin.
This year marks the 36th year of the International Blue Flag programme. A world renowned award trusted by millions around the globe, the Blue Flag programme is operated in Ireland by An Taisce – the National Trust for Ireland on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
Beaches and marinas that achieve this accolade must comply with a specific set of criteria relating to water quality, information provision, environmental education, safety and beach management.
This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the National Green Coast programme for beaches with excellent water quality and natural, unspoilt environment.
At the raising of the Blue Flag for 2023 at Templetown Beach earlier this week, Joan Martin, Chief Executive of Louth County Council expressed her enthusiasm for the Blue Flag Programme, saying:
“We are immensely proud of the collaborative efforts that have led to this achievement, and Louth County Council remains steadfast in our commitment to preserving our environment for future generations”.
Conor Keelan, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, added: “It is a testament to the tireless efforts of Louth County Council, coastal groups and the community to protect and enhance our coastline”.
159 awards were announced by the Minister for the 2023 season – 84 beaches and 10 marinas in Ireland received the Blue Flag Award, while 65 beaches were awarded the Green Coast Award.
Ms. Cathy Baxter, Director of the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce, said: “…. It takes immense dedication and effort to manage a beach or marina to meet the rigorous standards set by these prestigious award programmes, and we extend our warmest congratulations to all the deserving sites that have achieved this remarkable reward.”
Further information on the Blue Flag and Green Coast awards may be found at www.beachawards.ie
