Blue Flags lost due to winter storm damage

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

However, others regained the status after undertaking extensive repair or improvement works and a total of 80 bathing places secured the award, six more than last year.

Nine Blue Flags were regained in Dublin, Wexford, Clare, and Kerry. They had been lost in 2013 through failing to meet water quality.