Bundoran receives Blue Flag award for 2023 bathing season
Bundoran is one of the 12 locations in County Donegal that have today been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag which will fly over Main Beach for the 2023 bathing season which begins on June 1st.
An Taisce announced the awards in a ceremony in Donabate in County Dublin today (Friday 17th May 2023) with the flags presented by Minister of State for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Mr. Darragh O’Brien, T.D.
Speaking at the awards ceremony Minister O’Brien said: ‘This year celebrates the 20th anniversary of Clean Coasts and the Green Coast Awards and I am delighted to present a record-breaking 65 Green Coast Awards today. It also marks 36 years of the Blue Flag as an international programme and I am pleased to present 94 Blue Flags for the 2023 season.’
The Blue Flag has become an internationally recognised symbol of high standards in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and safety. Rigorous testing is carried out year round by Donegal County Council staff to ensure the water quality meets the highest standards.
Cllr Michael McMahon of the Donegal Municipal District congratulated the staff of Donegal County Council on another great achievement ‘I’d like to pay tribute to the staff on the ground here in Bundoran who work tirelessly to ensure that Blue Flag status is retained for Main Beach and the 11 other beaches in the county. It is a testament to the pride in which is taken in the work that is done that we can ensure that beach goers have a safe environment to bathe in year on year. Thanks also the TUS workers and Tidy Towns volunteers who keep the beach tidy all year round.’
Bundoran Tourism Officer Shane Smyth added ‘having the Blue Flag once again gives bathers the confidence that the water at Main Beach has been tested and is classified as “excellent” under EPA standards and have met all 33 criteria. Thanks to all at Donegal County Council and An Taisce who have helped us achieve this standard once again’
The other beaches in the county that have been awarded the Blue Flag are:
Carrickfinn, Culdaff, Downings, Fintra, Killahoey, Marble Hill, Murvagh, Naran, Portsalon Rossnowlagh and Stroove. Ballyheirnan, Dooey Beach, Drumnatinney and Magheroarty Beach have all been awarded the Green Coast Award while both Greencastle and Rathmullan Marinas have retained their Blue Flag marina status.
The Bundoran Weekly Podcast
Check out the latest episode of our weekly podcast below! To find out more click www.bundoranweekly.com