Mayo beach bylaws on dogs 'absurd' while raw sewage flows into bay

BEACH bylaws controlling dogs on Blue Flag beaches in Mayo have been likened to something off Killinaskully at a time when raw sewage is allowed to flow into the sea at Newport.

Dogs are not permitted at certain times of the day on the beaches, a situation branded as 'absurd' by Councillor Donna Sheridan.

Speaking at an environment committee meeting, she explained that the bylaws were brought in to appease the Blue Flag regulations.

There are times within the day when dogs are not allowed on the beaches in case they go to the toilet, and the owner doesn't clean up, which is 'absurd' when we are still pumping sewage into the bay in Newport.

“It is stuff you wouldn't see on Killinaskully,” commented Councillor Sheridan.

In her opinion it showed how crazy some of the legislation is these days.

Not letting people on the beaches between certain hours is absurdity given the raw sewage situation in Newport.

The meeting also heard that complaints have been received about dogs at Westport Quay.

The area doesn't fall under beach management bylaws, and local Councillor Peter Flynn has asked if there are regulations around their control.

Dogs are let off the lead, some in swimming, and there are people who are not comfortable and have a fear. And he wondered about signage or if something could be done to ensure there is no stress for people at the location, which is a year-round swimming amenity.

The point was made by Councillor Sheridan that the legislation requires all dogs to be under effective control, and that is not necessarily on a lead.

A swim is good for dogs, she added, and the important part is that they are under effective control.

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