Fianna Fáil TD for Galway East, Anne Rabbitte, has said full-time lifeguards are needed in Galway during the month of June and has called for a review of the cover provided while schools remain off.

Currently, lifeguard cover is provided at weekends in June and seven days a week in July and August.

Deputy Rabbitte said:

The finer weather over the past number of weeks and easing of public health measures has seen people visit our beaches and waterways in great numbers. However, under the current arrangements, there is no lifeguard cover Monday to Friday until the middle of next week and none in September.

Deputy Rabbitte continued:

This presents its own danger as schools are off and families look for things to do during the week considering so few amenities are open. Naturally, our beaches and waterways become an attractive destination, as has been seen over the past number of weeks.

Deputy Rabbitte concluded:

I have been engaging with our Local Authority on this matter. It is important we see an extension of the lifeguard cover for the remainder of June, and into the future including September, weather dependent, while more people work from home or schools remain closed, to protect those taking to our beaches and waterways.Water Safety Ireland, our Lifeguards, and the Local Authority do tremendous work in making our beaches and waterways a safe place for us all to enjoy.  I am asking that the provision of lifeguard cover be introduced to a full seven-day service to begin immediately.