Plea to beach-goers ahead of Bank Holiday

The Government today urged extreme caution to beach-goers and holidaymakers this bank holiday weekend as new figures show 131 people drowned in Ireland’s waterways last year.

More than 50 of those were accidental, while almost half were as a result of suicide, the Irish Water Safety’s (IWS) 2006 annual report revealed.

Co Cork topped the nationwide poll for the highest number of deaths at 20.

So far this year 19 people have drowned and while the 2006 figures are the lowest since 1965, the IWS says it is still unacceptably high.

Speaking at the launch of the report, Junior Environment Minister Tony Kileen said: “This weekend signals the start of the peak of the holiday season and we expect thousands of people to enjoy our rivers, lakes and seaside over the holiday period.

“Each August Bank Holiday we experience increased risk of drowning and it is crucial that we be aware of these risks.

“Many members of the public will take to our waterways and beaches over the weekend for their leisure activities.

“I am appealing to them to exercise caution as they engage in water based activities,” he said.

Of the 131 drownings last year, 53 were accidental, 63 were by suicide and 15 were declared undetermined, according to the report.

Men accounted for the majority of deaths at 91, while 40 women died.

The highest number of deaths by suicide were also by males, at 34 compared with 29 females.

Forty-five men and eight women were victims of accidental drownings.

Co Cork recorded the highest number of fatalities at 20, followed by Dublin City, 14, and Cork City, 11.

Mr Kileen also unveiled 14 steps to safe swimming, in which he advised people not to paddle alone, or when tired, after eating, in strange places and to stay close to shore.

“Taking sensible precautions is the key to success in reducing the number of drownings and it is very satisfying for me to see the large number of members of the public who have qualified in swimming, lifesaving and rescue,” he said.

“Education has a key role of play and I commend the volunteers who teach the public Water Safety skills which should ultimately save many lives.”