Frustration as Cork beaches left strewn with litter amid heatwave
With beaches across Cork packed with visitors in recent weeks there's been a growing frustration among coastal communities who are often left to clean up the litter left behind. It's a problem these communities face every summer, and with the spell of fantastic weather we've had in recent weeks, the issues have started even earlier than usual. Beachgoers have been encouraged to follow the mantra of 'if you take it in—take it out' to ensure that Cork's beaches are left clean and tidy for everyone's enjoyment. However, many elect to leave their used drink cans and other bits of litter on the beach or leave a small bag full of rubbish a few steps off the beaten track rather than bringing it back to the car. Images shared by frustrated local and volunteer groups in the last week have showcased this behaviour and while the burden ultimately falls on those who threw the rubbish away in the first place, it's introduced a broader discussion on if Cork's beaches have enough amenities to keep up with demand during the peak season.
Another overfolowing bin in Myrtleville
(Image: Cllr Audrey Buckley)
Just yesterday in Ringaskiddy, a representative of the local tidy towns group took to social media to highlight the litter issue and express their frustrations at the lack of bins and toilets provided for Loughbeg beach. The volunteer group was told by the council that public toilets and bins would not be installed there for the summer, but work is ongoing to try and rectify this. Councillor Audrey Buckley weighed in on the thread and confirmed that she'd been liaising with the IDA and Cork County Council to address ongoing concerns around serious parking congestion, especially for emergency vehicles and litter in the area. She said: "I’m hopeful that a resolution will be reached soon, one that delivers a positive outcome for everyone involved. "These matters have now been formally brought to the attention of the IDA. I believe that, with the support of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) team and continued engagement from Cork County Council, there is a shared understanding of just how important and cherished this beach amenity is to the local community. "In the meantime, may I kindly ask everyone visiting the beach to be especially mindful: As there is currently no litter collection or portaloos available in the area, please remember—Bring it in, Bring it out." Cllr Buckley also discussed the amenities issue earlier this week in a chat with PJ Coogan on Cork's 96FM Opinion Line. The Carrigaline-based councillor highlighted how many of Cork's beaches have no permanent toilet facilities, which often presents difficulties for families, elderly people, and those with disabilities during their trips to the seaside. She said: “Unfortunately, public toilets are an afterthought really at the moment, particularly with all the money we’re spending on greenways at the moment, when you look at it, how many public toilets are on the greenways? That is the problem, it's a bigger issue of public toilets in general, and we don’t have them on our public beaches.” Cllr Buckley said that the current portaloos installed at several beaches each summer aren't fit for purpose and are often left in a sorry state by the end of the season, pointing out that when you visit beaches elsewhere in Europe, good public facilities at the beach area are a given. This all comes as Cork did extremely well in An Taisce's nationwide survey of beaches, with the Rebel County earning the highest number of combined Green Coast and Blue Flag awards out of any county. Fountainstown and Inchydoney in East Cork were two of just ten sites across the Republic of Ireland to get both awards, and Cork now has a total of 11 Blue Flag beaches. Both the Blue Flag and Green Coast accolades aim to highlight coastal spots maintained at the highest standards, but have distinct differences. The Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised awards for beaches, marinas and boats, and is given to sites deemed to have good environmental standards, good sanitary and safety facilities. The Green Coast accolade also focuses on environmental standards, but further takes water quality and natural beauty into account. You can find out more about Cork's top beaches with our interactive map here.
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