Council ignores requests to clear ‘fly-infested’ seaweed

A local councillor has demanded the immediate removal of “dirty fly-infested” seaweed left strewn around on the sunbathing area at Ballyloughane Beach.

Cllr Terry O’Flaherty said that while litter is removed daily from the beach area, the seaweed – which is left lying there for long periods – is unsightly and during the warm weather can cause a foul stench.

“Hundreds of people use the facility, as this is the only beach on the east side of the city, therefore it should require more attention.

“I am aware that funding and lack of resources is a major problem with the City Council — but when it comes to Salthill, Grattan Road and Silver Strand, there appears to be no problem to keep those beaches in good clean condition.”

Cllr O’Flaherty said that her recent appeals to remove the dirty seaweed which is filled with weeds particularly from the sunbathing area, had been ignored.

“I have sent emails and made several phone calls to the City Council regarding the seaweed but it is still not cleared. It’s the same every year I have to make numerous appeals to have the seaweed cleared, this should automatically be on a schedule for cleaning.

“It is very unfair that this area is not receiving the same treatment as the three other beaches throughout the city.

“Dogs and horses fouling in the Ballyloughane Beach area is rampant and the owners of these animals should be more responsible.

“They should be prepared to clean up after they foul, it should not be left to others to clean the mess they leave behind them.

“The bye-law to ban dogs using the beach area during the day is nothing short of a joke due to lack of enforcement. It is pointless introducing bye-laws if they are not going to be enforced,” said Cllr O’Flaherty.