A north Clare Fine Gael councillor is blaming successive governments – including his own party – for the loss of his local beach’s blue flag.
An Taisce has bestowed 16 awards on beaches and marinas in Clare at its 2026 Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards Ceremony, with Lahinch the most notable site losing out.
The Blue Flag programme is aimed at raising environmental awareness and promoting sound environmental management of beaches, marinas and eco-tourism boats.
A total of eight Clare beaches have achieved this status this year, namely Ballycuggeran, Cappagh Pier, Fanore, Kilkee, Mountshannon Lough Derg, Spanish Point, White Strand Doonbeg and White Strand Miltown Malbay.
Lahinch is the only beach beach not to retain its Blue Flag Status this year.
Additionally, Kilrush Marina, managed by Kilrush Maritime Limited, has held on its Blue Flag, but Portmagee Seasonal Visitors Pontoons, managed by the same company, has lost its status.
Turning to Green Coast awards, which recognise beaches for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty, five Clare beaches have been honoured today.
These are Ballyalla Lake, Bishop’s Quarter, Carrigaholt Beach, Seafield and Quilty.
It means the county has received 14 gongs in total – down from 16 last year.
Local Fine Gael Councillor Bill Slattery has been telling Clare FM’s Seán Lyons he believes the State has failed to adequately maintain local wastewater treatment infrastructure.
Listen to the full interview here
