Six popular bathing spots have failed to meet minimum EU standards, according to the Environmental Protection Agency’s annual report which is released today.

Cork County Council will announce today if a swimming ban for Youghal beach over E. coli fears will be lifted or stay in place.

Confusion reigned yesterday as lifeguards warned swimmers not to bathe at seven beaches in Co Cork, despite test results showing they were within permissible EU levels for the bacteria E.coli.

Six Irish beaches have lost their blue-flag status this year, according to the latest list published by the Department of the Environment.