A Louisburgh councillor has sought an update on the do not swim notice currently in place on Carowmore beach.
Councillor Chris Maxwell says the notice which has been in place for a week now was the result of an issue at the wastewater treatment plant.
He is looking for an update from Uisce Eireann on whether an upgrade of the current treatment plant is needed to ensure this doesn't happen again.
He is also looking for an update on the testing of the water at Carowmore beach.
Councillor Maxwell has been speaking to Midwest Radio's Alannah Nolan...
Midwest News has contacted Uisce Eireann for a statement and have provided us with the following response.
Uisce Éireann wishes to advise that effluent quality has improved at Louisburgh Wastewater Treatment Plant with work ongoing on the process required to restore normal plant operations.
Uisce Éireann contacted Mayo County Council’s Environment section as soon as the issue was identified and following consultation with the HSE, a bathing water prohibition notice was imposed on Thursday, 11 July as a precaution at Carrowmore Beach and remains in place.
Uisce Éireann notifies Local Authorities and the EPA of any incidents or overflow that could impact receiving waters.
Local Authorities are responsible for managing, monitoring and communicating bathing water quality information to the public. Each Local Authority collects information on bathing water quality on a regular basis and, in consultation with the HSE, provides information and guidance to the public on using bathing waters.
Notices are displayed at the bathing water locations and on the Environmental Protection Agency website,www.beaches.ie, advising the public on water quality and of any bathing restrictions.
The most up-to-date bathing water info can always be found on this national reporting website which is the primary means of the communicating water quality to beach users.
