BLUE FLAG BEACHES

The Blue Flag scheme started in France in 1985, when eleven French beaches were awarded the Blue Flag for their achievement of high bathing water quality. In the years that followed, the European Blue Flag campaign continued to grow. By 1995, Blue Flags were flying in 18 different countries. In 1992 the first Blue Flags in Cork were awarded.

Criteria For Blue Flag Beaches

To be awarded the Blue Flag a beach must fulfil a number of criteria including the following:

No Visible hydrocarbon (oil) pollution.
No gross pollution, visibly sewage related or otherwise.
To display publicly on, or close, to the beach up-dated information on water quality and sampling point location.
First Aid must be available.
Adequate sanitary facilities available.
No industrial or sewage discharges may affect the beach.

All applications for the European Blue Flag first go to the Irish National Jury for examination.

Safety & Management

There should be easy safe access to the beach. Litter collection bins must be provided.

Environmental Education

The Blue Flag campaign builds on environmental education and information. The aim of the campaign is to increase the public's awareness of the quality of the beach environment.

Coastal Quality

The beach and its immediate hinterland must comply with development plans drawn up according to planning laws and regulations.

Blue Flags in Cork

Cork County Council has been awarded Blue Flags for the following beaches:

Barley Cove
Garryvoe
Garrylucas
Inchydoney
Owenahincha
Tragumna
Warren
Youghal: Clay Castle & Front Strand.

Water Quality

During the bathing season from mid May to the end of August, water samples are tested fortnightly. The information on bathing quality is displayed at each beach.

Water samples are analysed for Total coliforms, Faecal coliforms and Faecal streptococci. Water quality should comply with the requirements of the E.U. Bathing Water Directive.

Cork Council

We in Cork County Council will strive to maintain the quality of our beaches and the Blue Flag but please help us by taking your litter home with you. If you are visiting our county we hope you have a pleasant stay.

Wildlife of Blue Flag Beaches