Latest news with #BlackrockRaftRace
Irish Independent
08-07-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
Environment watchdog says Louth County Council responsible for water testing at Blackrock beach
The council does monitor water quality at beaches that have been classified as 'Designated Bathing' areas, but has come under pressure over recent months following environmental concerns raised about water quality and an overgrowth of algal bloom along the beach at Blackrock. Designated bathing areas are official swimming locations identified by local authorities under the Bathing Water Directive. These areas are monitored for water quality and safety during the designated bathing season, which typically runs from June to September. Blackrock beach is not a designated bathing area, which means that, despite it being one of the most popular beaches in the county, it is not monitored for water quality. However, the EPA has confirmed that while Louth County Council is not 'obliged' to test at a beach which isn't formally designated, the majority of local authorities are testing at undesignated 'popular swimming spots,' for the purpose of 'protecting public health.' Elected representatives and local lobby groups have been calling for testing to be carried out at Blackrock beach. But Louth County Council stated at the June meeting of the council that as it is not a Designated Bathing area, testing is not carried out . Meanwhile public fears over the water quality have continued to grow with the annual Blackrock Raft Race not being held on water. A special meeting was held at the end of June between local councillors and council management. It was agreed that Louth County Council write to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requesting that tests are carried out at Blackrock beach. In the letter to the EPA, the council highlighted the 'growing concern about the current environmental conditions at Blackrock beach as exemplified by the accumulation of seaweed on the beach.' The letter also highlighted 'concerns among the public about potential pollution affecting our local waters,' and called on the EPA to carry out 'comprehensive water testing' at the beach within five days. The Argus has this week contacted the EPA to query if this testing has been conducted and to ask if the agency can take steps to alleviate public concerns. ADVERTISEMENT In a reply, the EPA confirmed that it 'does not carry out water testing at beaches," adding that this is 'a function carried out by Local Authorities.' The EPA further clarified: 'While the beach in question is not a designated bathing water, and therefore Louth County Council are not obliged to monitor it under the regulations, the majority of local authorities with designated bathing waters also conduct monitoring at popular swimming spots that are not formally designated, for the purposes of protecting public health.' "To assist the Local Authorities in carrying out this function, the EPA has developed capacity on our systems for this additional water monitoring information to be uploaded so it can be clearly displayed on This enables the public to make informed decisions about the quality of bathing water at these locations.' The Argus has reached out to Louth County Council to ask if it will, given the statement by the EPA, commence testing at Blackrock beach.
Irish Independent
30-06-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
EPA asked to intervene in ‘crisis' at Blackrock beach
Louth County Council have written to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requesting an 'urgent update' following a meeting with elected members last week, where calls for action emerged on issues such as the build-up of seaweed, the designation of bathing areas and water quality. Public concern over water quality saw the popular Blackrock Raft Race not go ahead in its usual format last weekend. Although a series of onshore activities did run, the traditional raft race was not held on the open water. The local authority have advised sea swimmers to use 'officially designated bathing water sites in the area,' confirming that the beach at Blackrock is currently not a designated site. Cllr. Shane McGuinness, who represents the Blackrock and Haggardstown area on Louth County Council called for 'serious action' to be taken to resolve ongoing public concerns. He described the situation as a 'crisis' which could only be resolved by the provision of a new waste water treatment plant for the Dundalk South area. In a statement, Louth County Council said its officials had met with elected members of Dundalk Municipal District on Thursday last 'to discuss recent environmental concerns raised about Blackrock Beach.' 'Council officials shared updates from consultations with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Marine Institute. Both agencies judged that the recent seaweed deposits at Blackrock and the Priest's Beach are naturally occurring and part of a seasonal pattern of macro algae accumulation.' Local councillors have been calling for the water quality at Blackrock to be tested, but the council stated that under the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 and the 2024 Amendment, Blackrock Beach is not currently a designated bathing water. As such, water quality testing is not carried out by Louth County Council at this location. 'For those wishing to swim, Louth County Council recommends using one of the officially designated bathing water sites in the area, where water quality is regularly monitored to ensure public safety and lifeguards are in attendance,' the statement continued. The local authority stated that water quality data for nearby areas such as Inner Dundalk Bay and Castletown Estuary is available to the public via the EPA's website. "Inner Dundalk Bay is classified as a transitional waterbody with a 'Moderate' status under the Water Framework Directive.' The meeting also heard that a new designated bathing water site can be nominated by the public, in accordance with EPA guidelines and under the Bathing Waters Regulations. Observations are invited from the public, and more information can be found in the Environment section of the Louth County Council website. Submissions will be accepted up until 26th September. Concerns about sewage overflows and water pollution were also raised during the meeting, where the council confirmed the EPA is responsible for monitoring water quality and regulating emissions from wastewater treatment plants. 'It also has the authority to enforce environmental regulations and ensure that wastewater discharges do not cause significant harm to the environment.' Louth County Council officials agreed to write to the EPA to request an urgent update on the water quality, particularly in the area around Blackrock. The possibility of removing seaweed from the beach was discussed but ultimately ruled out. Dundalk Bay is a Special Protection Area (SPA) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). These designations are part of the European Union's Natura 2000 network, aimed at protecting the most seriously threatened habitats and species across Europe. Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, added: 'Blackrock Beach is one of the most popular and well-loved spots in County Louth, especially during the summer. That's why it was so important for councillors and officials to come together and listen to the concerns being raised. We want to reassure the public that their voices matter and by working together, we can help protect and improve this special place for everyone to enjoy.' Cllr Robert Nash, Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District, said: 'Given the strong public concern around Blackrock Beach in recent weeks, I felt it was essential that we brought everyone to the table. I requested a meeting with senior council officials and Dundalk MD councillors, and I'm glad that it took place. It was a constructive discussion where a range of views were shared, and we'll continue to keep the public informed as we move forward.' David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: 'We understand the concerns of residents and visitors regarding the recent changes at Blackrock Beach. While the seaweed and smell may be unsightly and unpleasant, it is a natural occurrence and part of the coastal ecosystem. We are committed to working with the EPA and other agencies to ensure the safety and environmental health of our coastline, and we would strongly encourage members of the public to engage in the process to nominate appropriate bathing water areas.' He added that the council will continue to monitor the situation at Blackrock Beach and communicate with the EPA and other relevant authorities to address any issues that arise.
