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The HSE has been consulted and signs have been erected at the beach. Alamy Stock Photo
health risk
Swimmers told to avoid Velvet Strand in Portmarnock for the next five days
Swimmers have been urged not to enter the water due to risk of illness after heavy rain.
A ‘DO NOT SWIM’ prohibition notice has been put in place at Velvet Strand in Portmarnock for the next five days.
Swimmers and bathers have been told not to enter the water as it poses a risk of illness.
It follows a confirmation of an overflow during heavy rainfall that is thought to have deteriorated the water quality at the beach. The deterioration has been put down to the likely overflow of a wastewater pumping station.
The HSE has been consulted and signs erected at the beach.
The beach will remain open during this time but visitors are asked to respect the no swim notice.
The local authority, Fingal County Council, is to take a sample of the water to assess the situation.
Samples of the water are taken several times a month, on average, and assess the water quality and test for the presence of bacterias E. coli and Intestinal Enterococci.
Members of the public can check for water quality at any of the monitored bathing waters in Ireland in advance by accessing the EPA website or by checking the notice board at the entrance to each beach.
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