No lifeguard for closed Lisfannon Beach

Bathing season began in Donegal over the weekend as lifeguards took up duty at 13 beaches across Donegal, including Bundoran, Rossnowlagh, Murvagh, Fintra, Portnoo/Narin, An Charraig Fhinn, Killahoey, Marblehill, Na Dúnaibh, Portsalon, Rathmullan, Culdaff and Shroove. Public amenities were also opened at all beaches with lifeguards.

However, due to access issues, this was not extended to Lisfannon Beach, which has been closed for some time as storms and erosion caused damage to the road.

At this week’s Inishowen Municipal District meeting, Donegal County Councillor Rena Donaghey said the news about Lisfannon was ‘very disappointing.’

“It’s a beautiful beach and a lot of visitors and locals use it. I know we need to ensure it’s safe for everyone and a lot of damage was done with storms. I also know they’re thinking of putting the car park on the right hand side, rather than where it is on the left, but we still haven’t got the Blue Flag back and we really cannot be without it for a fourth year.”

Colr Donaghey said that although work is being done behind the scenes to ensure the opening of the beach, it’s an awful loss with it not being open. “I’d like the works to be fast forwarded as soon as Covid restrictions allow. If we could even get the plans in place for the car park at a different location. We need to ensure it’s kept on the radar.”

Donegal County Council confirmed that lifeguards will be on duty seven days a week from Saturday, June 27 until the end of August and also for the first two weekends in September. Lifeguards are on duty at all aforementioned sites from 12pm until 6.30pm, but in Rossnowlagh from 11am to 7pm. Public conveniences will also open this weekend at all of the lifeguarded beaches.

The council asks that those visiting are mindful of the ongoing need to respect social distancing, hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.