03 May 2012

NI's Beaches Passing Bathing Water Standards Welcome

Environment Minister, Alex Attwood today welcomed the publication of the Marine Conservation Society Report, Good Beach Guide for 2012 passing EC standards for Northern Ireland's beaches.

The recommendations in the guide are based on water quality measurement and perceived pollution risk at 24 of Northern Ireland's most popular bathing beaches. All 24 of Northern Ireland’s European identified bathing waters passed the standards of the EC Bathing Waters Directive in 2011.Twenty achieved the EC's higher Excellent standard.

Mr Attwood said: "Our natural assets are a huge part of the quality of our lives, tourist growth and new jobs. It is great to see our improving water standard being publicised throughout the islands. It is a good advert for the quality of our natural heritage.

"The guide now recommends 16 of our beaches, up from 10 last year. This is a good endorsement of our water quality management plans and will be a great support to the coastal economy.

'All water quality is vulnerable to heavy rainfall events. To both preserve and improve on this excellent progress, all agencies must remain vigilant.

"I am sure that this improvement will also be reflected at the Blue Flag and Seaside awards later this month. These awards recognise beach management standards and facilities as well as water quality."

(CD/GK)