Bathing water results “are worth making a splash about” – Poots
Environment Minister Edwin Poots has welcomed news that more than half of our bathing waters are officially excellent – but he warned bathers and sun-seekers not to use it as an excuse to flock to our beaches and flout Covid-19 measures.
According to DAERA’s 2019 Bathing Water Quality Results, Northern Ireland continues to enjoy some of the best bathing water quality in the UK and Europe.
“There is much to celebrate with these excellent results for the quality of our bathing waters, especially given the changeable weather our coastline is often subject to,” he told Newry Times.
“We can take great pride in them and the work that goes into reducing water pollution and keeping our bathing waters clean and safe.”
“All 26 bathing waters around our coast have met strict European standards for water quality.
“Fourteen of the 26 bathing waters were classified as ‘Excellent’, a prerequisite for the coveted Blue Flag Award and the highest water quality standard.
“A further nine met the ‘Good’ standard and the remaining met the ‘Sufficient’ standard.
With good weather forecast for the rest of the week, Minister Poots warned people to think twice about visiting local beaches and beauty spots.
“It is very tempting to visit our lovely beaches, especially when the sun is shining, but I would urge you to think twice.
“Continue to protect yourself and your community from the spread of this infection.
“Everyone must remain focused on protecting the health and well-being of each other as well as protecting our health services,” Minister Poots continued.
“If you are planning any outdoor visits, continue to protect yourself and your community.
“You can travel to exercise but you are encouraged to be responsible.
“Don’t travel too far and avoid travelling to places where there are likely to be lots of people and where it will be difficult to maintain social distancing.
“Remember to keep safe when playing in the water and check if there are lifeguard services operating: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/keeping-safe-waterways-and-coast
Keep up to date with all the latest Northern Ireland Coronavirus / Covid-19 news HERE
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