Storms that ravaged Ireland’s coast at the start of the year have cost several beaches their coveted Blue Flag award.

A number of the country’s best known beaches are expected to lose their Blue Flag status as a result of the devastation caused by recent storms.

Kerry County Council is to ban swimming near piers, introduce a fee for parking near beaches and charge for mooring small boats as part of controversial draft harbour bylaws.

LIKE a family of returned Yanks treading homeward to the Blaskets, the sight of a group of rare visitors heading towards the shores of Dingle Bay has caused great excitement among locals on Ireland’s western-most point.