The Blue Flag is flying over Lahinch Beach once again today as an advisory notice, placed on the popular North Clare tourism hotspot earlier this week, was lifted this morning.
Following additional tests carried out on the water quality in Liscannor Bay, Clare County Council, acting in accordance to HSE advice, has lifted the advisory notice.
Several notices were put in place on the Lahinch Prominade earlier this week, warning beach users about possible issues with the water quality. However, at no time was there a full swimming ban in place.
This restriction was introduced after the results of routine bathing water samples showed elevated levels of bacteria in the water.
Run-off from the catchment area of the Inagh River and Liscannor Bay, following exceptionally heavy rainfall in recent days, is one possible cause for the elevated levels of bacteria in the water.
This is the latest in a series of advisory notices which have been put in place on Clare beaches in recent months.
Earlier this month, Lahinch, White Strand in Miltown, Kilkee, White Strand in Doonbeg, Spanish Point and Cappagh Pier were all issued with a five-day swim restriction notice due to possible pollution.
Andrew Hamilton is a journalist, investigative reporter and blogger who has been working in the media in Ireland for the past 20 years. His areas of special interest include the environment, mental health and politics.