Well-known Cork beach closed to swimmers due to suspected e.coli in water
People at Warren Beach in Rosscarbery in recent days. File Picture: Andy Gibson.
One of Cork’s most well-known beaches has been closed to swimmers because of suspected e.coli bacteria found in the water.
A prohibition notice was issued at the Warren beach in Rosscarbery this afternoon – just as a group of 60 children were due to undertake lifeguard training with Water Safety Ireland.
A spokeswoman for Cork County Council said: “Samples undertaken at the Warren Beach, West Cork have indicated high levels of bacteria in the bathing water. In the interest of public health and in consultation with the HSE, a Prohibition Notice (Not to Swim) has been issued.”
She said that further sampling and testing were being carried out, with “a decision on the continuance of the prohibition notice” to be made when the results are known.
Fianna Fáil TD Christopher O’Sullivan has raised concerns in the Dail previously about the bathing water at the Warren. In August 2022, he said that a prohibition on swimming was issued “when the lifeguards on duty reported raw sewage coming towards the beach”.
He is now calling on Uisce Éireann to upgrade the sewage treatment at the Warren Beach.
He said: “The only solution now to prevent further no swim notices is a full upgrade or replacement of the existing system.”
Uisce Éireann has been contacted for comment.
