Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Last week, I rose to highlight the ridiculous issue we had in west Cork regarding Garretstown beach, which adjoins Garrylucas beach. Both beaches had blue flag status for a number of years. Unfortunately, Garretstown lost its blue flag because the recycling area was not close enough to the beach. I am delighted to report to the House that progress has been made on this issue. An Taisce has seen logic and sense and has again granted blue flag status to this beach. I want to compliment the local council. I also want to compliment Councillor Marie O'Sullivan and Councillor Kevin Murphy for their good work in making sure logic was brought to bear in dealing with this issue, which is really important for those of us who live in west Cork. Our beaches are a part of our identity in so many ways. They are really prime locations and the blue flag status for these two beaches in Ballinspittle was something we needed to protect. We are now open for business. Having the blue flags gives us the opportunity to market this part of the world so that everyone can come and enjoy the beautiful bathing water, which, I must say, was never under threat. The blue flag status was lost because of the recycling area not being within 20 m of the beach. The water quality was never in doubt. I am delighted that there has been progress. It is an important step forward. Hopefully, we can move on from this now and make sure we can regain the other blue flag beaches that have been lost around the country.