Olof Gill
Mayo authorities are rightfully proud of the county’s 13 blue flag beaches, but not everyone appears to agree as to the pristine state of our shoreline. The Mayo News last week received digital photographs (above) and complaints about rubbish left on a section of Old Head beach, one of the county’s most popular tourist destinations and one of the 13 that was last week named as a recipient of the prestigious Blue Flag award.
Maria Fitzgerald, Castlebar, told The Mayo News that she arrived at Old Head on Saturday, June 9 and intended to camp there for the night. There was a large group of holidaymakers on the beach that day, enjoying the summer sunshine. However, as the day dragged on, a particular section of the beach was strewn with an assortment of litter. This remained on the beach overnight and was still there on Sunday. “The rest of the main beach was ok,” said Maria Fitzgerald, “but this one section was covered in beach towels, bottles of sunscreen, bottles of water, shoes and five or six empty boxes of beer. It was a real mess.”She also made contact with Mayo County Council.
Ms Fitzgerald expressed her disappointment that there were no litter wardens or extra bins available for such a busy summer weekend. “Of course it all boils down to a lack of respect [from beachgoers],” she said, “but there could be more bins located around the beach and there are no signs asking people to bring their rubbish away with them.”
Another potential waste prevention method suggested was increased signage warning of on-the-spot litter fines.
Mayo County Council told The Mayo News that ‘unfortunately, signage isn’t going to solve this type of problem’. A spokesperson explained that during times of prolonged good weather, there is a dramatic increase in the number of holidaymakers on popular Mayo beaches. Furthermore, while the majority are respectful and remove their rubbish, a small minority cause problems including, shockingly, using beaches for disposal of their domestic holiday refuse.
The Council will be keeping a ‘close eye on beaches’ in the coming weeks, giving them more attention as the summer progresses, particularly during sustained sunny periods. When questioned as to what this will entail, the spokesperson said that it will mean ‘extra people spending extra time’ on Mayo beaches to ensure they are kept clean.
