Mary Coughlan
Question:58 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for the Environment the regulations or guidelines, if any, that relate to safety on beaches; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17503/95]
Written Answers. - Beach Safety Regulations.
Local authorities have power under section 41 of the Local Government (Sanitary Services) Act, 1948, to make by-laws for the regulation of public bathing within their sanitary districts or in coastal waters adjoining their sanitary districts. Such by-laws may provide for a wide range of matters, including matters pertaining to public safety. No local authority has made bye-laws under section 41.
Part VII of the Local Government Act, 1994 (which I propose shortly to bring into operation) contains general provisions for the making of by-laws by local authorities to regulate or control an activity or matter in the interests of the common good of the local community. It will be a matter for the local authority concerned to consider, having regard to the legal provisions and to local circumstances, whether such by-laws should be made in relation to safety on beaches. The making of by-laws under Part VII will be a reserved function of the elected members and there will be no requirement for ministerial approval.