Donegal County Council closes Lisfannon beach with Gardaí enforcement promised as COVID-19 response is ramped up

The local authority announced the closure on Wednesday after the issue of large crowds congregating in public places such as beaches, parks, walking trails was highlighted over the past few days.

"The Council yesterday announced the closure of the visitors’ centre and toilets and introduced restrictions to certain vehicular access at Sliabh Liag cliffs and those remain in place.

"In addition, Lisfannon Beach between Fahan and Buncrana will be completely closed. The existing access barrier that has been closed for some time due to erosion and access issues will be reinforced," said DCC in a statement.

The Council acknowledged that last weekend was the first dry and sunny weekend in many months and that "naturally such a weekend would normally bring many locals and visitors to public amenities".

"The big difference, however, this year we are in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis where everyone is asked to stay at home as much as possible and restrict their movements to help the country delay and manage the spread of the virus.," the Council said.

Gardaí will be working with the Council to ensure the closure of Lisfannon is observed.

"The Council has been liaising with the Gardai who have confirmed that they will be patrolling beaches and public amenities and other locations where crowds gather.

"They will be taking steps to ensure that social/physical distancing is being observed and will disperse crowds of more than four persons. Particular emphasis will be placed on locations that have already experienced crowds who have already flouted the government’s guidance," the local authority said.