CITY BEACH CLOSED DUE TO E-COLI CONTAMINATION

Date Published: 22-Aug-2012

Grattan Beach in Salthill has been closed off for swimming after high levels of E Coli bacteria were detected in the water.

On the advice of the HSE, public notices have been put in place advising bathers not to swim there until the quality is restored.

In a statement, Galway City Council say the results of the most recent bathing water sampling taken at Grattan Beach show levels of Ecoli which breached EU mandatory permitted levels.

The council adds that the excessive rainfall over the past week is a major contributory factor to the increased levels of bacteria detected.

The public in Cork is experiencing similar difficulties where public notices were posted last week warning against swimming in seven beaches.

This was because of high levels of the E coli bacteria in the water.

Cllr Peter Keane says the city council will not be found wanting in dealing with this issue but it's disappointing in the final days of the school holidays.

Acting Director of Services for the Environment Francis Mullarkey says people must obey the notices for their own safety.