Swimming Bans Issued at Two Clare Beaches

Clare County Council has issued swimming restrictions at two of the county’s popular bathing spots after elevated levels of bacteria were detected in routine water quality tests.

A bathing prohibition — indicated by a red flag — has been introduced at Lahinch Beach, meaning swimming is not permitted until further notice. The restriction was put in place on the advice of the Health Service Executive (HSE) following results from routine sampling that showed heightened bacterial levels in the water.

In a separate move, an advisory notice has been posted at Whitestrand Doonbeg Beach, advising the public not to swim there for the time being. This notice is also based on water quality test results showing increased bacteria levels.

In both cases, the suspected cause is run-off from the surrounding catchment areas following exceptionally heavy rainfall in recent days. Such run-off can carry pollutants into the water, temporarily affecting its quality.

As a result of the bacterial exceedances, An Taisce’s Blue Flags — which signify high standards of water quality and environmental management — have been temporarily removed from both bathing areas. The flags will be reinstated once testing confirms that water quality has returned to acceptable levels.

Clare County Council says further sampling is being carried out and updates will be issued as more information becomes available.

Beachgoers are advised to check local signage and Clare County Council’s website for the latest updates before entering the water.