Independent Councillor Declan Power has called for year-round water quality testing to be carried out by Louth County Council at all Blue Flag beaches to protect the increasing number of year-round sea swimmers.
“We have a duty of care to everyone who swims in our coastal waters, no matter what time of year,” Cllr. Power said. “The Council has done great work in testing our waters during the summer months, providing crucial reassurances to summer bathers. But the growing community of year-round swimmers, including charity groups and local clubs, also deserve this protection.”
Cllr. Power highlighted recent incidents where water quality at local beaches posed serious health risks. In early September, Clogherhead Beach was closed due to elevated levels of E. coli, the first “Poor” water quality rating since 2016. Similarly, Seapoint Beach experienced poor water quality in August, repeating issues in July and August 2023.
“These results show us the ongoing risks of swimming in contaminated waters, but they are currently based on testing limited to the summer months,” Cllr. Power explained. “Yet, sea swimming is no longer confined to summer. Across our coastline, swimmers are taking to the water year-round for the physical and mental health benefits that come with cold water swimming.”
Cllr. Power pointed out that while swimmers have benefitted from Council testing during peak season, they remain vulnerable to risks during the rest of the year. Winter months, in particular, can bring greater exposure to pollution, stormwater runoff, and wastewater overflow, increasing the chances of illness from bacteria like E. coli.
“As someone who participates in the Annual Chernobyl Dip on St. Stephen’s Day, I know first-hand the importance of water safety. Events like these attract hundreds of swimmers, and we need to be confident that the water is safe—not just in summer, but all year round,” he added.
He also emphasised the potential for year-round water testing to boost Louth’s reputation as a destination for safe, inclusive sea swimming events, such as charity swims that inspire community participation and raise vital funds for local causes.
“Our neighbours in Meath County Council already conduct year-round testing, and it’s time for Louth to follow suit. If costs are a concern, I am calling for a full breakdown of current May-to-September testing expenses for the October Council meeting, and I suggest we identify additional funding from the Budget to support this essential initiative.”
“We owe it to our community to make sure our waters are safe for everyone, at all times of the year.”
