JUNE 2004

Blue Flag Honour for Donegal Beaches

Donegal County Council was praised after it was awarded the second highest number or prestigious Blue Flags in the country. A total of 12 coveted blue flags were awarded to fly high at the nominated pristine beaches throughout Donegal.

The county's impressive tally was included among a total of 73 beaches and four marinas awarded the coveted status by Environment Minister Martin Cullen. The report also showed that Inishowen has kept its three Blue Flags at Shroove, Culdaff and Lisfannon.

Mr Cullen said: "This year sees a marked improvement in bathing water quality along Ireland's east coast with a record number of beaches applying for the prestigious Blue Flag. It shows that the Irish beaches with 97% coastal bathing quality, are in the 'Champions League' division. Bathers or tourists , industry and our quality of life, are seeing benefit of record investment."

The nine other beaches around the county to receive Blue Flag honours are Killahoey; Rossnowlagh; Portsalon; Murvagh; Marble Hill; Carrickfinn; Fintra; Bundoran and Portnoo.

The Minister commended local authorities, including Donegal County Council for their 'concerted efforts' in achieving the high standards required toe be awarded a Blue Flag, including top bathing water quality. He commended all those that applied for the award, acknowledging that while they may not have reached the standard this year, their efforts will reap reap benefits. Mr Cullen said: " It's one thing to win a Blue Flag, it's another thing keeping it. Great credit must go to those who have managed to maintain the standard this year. They have reached the highest standard and set the bar for others to follow."

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