Swimming ban in place at popular Clare bathing area

MEMBERS of the public are being advised that a bathing prohibition has been issued for Ballycuggeran, on the shore of Lough Derg.

On the advice of the HSE, Clare County Council has, this Saturday, made the decision, in the interests of public health. A spokesperson confirmed a red flag will be flying at this location until further notice.

The local authority says the prohibition has been introduced due to the presence of an algal bloom at the bathing area and at the pier.

"Blue green algae can produce harmful toxins. Such toxins have been known to be harmful to animals that drink the water and skin rashes have occurred in humans following contact," said a spokesperson.

In accordance with An Taisce’s Blue Flag programme, the Blue Flags at the bathing area will be removed until such time as the water quality improves.