Water safety watchdogs issue warning

The Irish Water Safety Association is appealing to the public to stay safe if swimming this weekend.

The association says there may be hidden dangers at some beaches and rivers, and says that the public should stick to areas with lifeguards.

Chief executive of the association, John Leech, said such care may prevent needless deaths.

"If you don't see flags, don't swim, unless you're a very good swimmer, an experienced swimmer, and have others ashore watching you," he said.

"If the red flags are up, then the lifeguard deems it too dangerous at that point in time, due to something on the beach. This may be due to tidal effects, eddies, that sort of situation."