This report presents findings and results for 2010 on the quality of Ireland's bathing waters.
Summary: The monitoring of water quality at the 131 designated bathing areas in 2010 was governed by the Quality of Bathing Waters Regulations, 1992 (S.I 155 of 1992) and amendments, which transposed the EU Directive 76/160/EEC. The purpose is to ensure that bathing water quality is maintained and if necessary improved so that it complies with specified standards designated to protect health and the environment.
In 2010, the quality of Ireland's bathing waters remains high with 97 per cent of bathing areas (127 of 131 areas) complying with the minimum EU mandatory values and achieving sufficient water quality status. From 2009 to 2010, the proportion of bathing areas of sufficient water quality increased by four per cent.
In 2010, 90 per cent of bathing areas (118 of 131 areas) also complied with the stricter EU guide values and achieved good water quality status. From 2009 to 2010 the proportion of bathing areas of good water quality increased by eight per cent.
While the overall level of bathing water quality remains acceptable, there was a slight decline in the number of freshwater bathing areas achieving sufficient and good status. Adequate measures need to be taken to improve the water quality of the bathing areas that have declined in quality or fail to meet regulatory standards.
More information can be found on the EPA Splash website (www.bathingwater.ie).
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