Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 June 2021
1213. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if the traditional nationwide water safety weeks can proceed in order to ensure that children nationwide continue to learn water safety; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30499/21]
View answerMy Department has governance responsibility for Water Safety Ireland (WSI). WSI has statutory responsibility for the promotion of public awareness of water safety; advancement of education related to the prevention of accidents in water; instruction in water safety; and the establishment of national standards for lifeguards.
WSI has played a key role in this year's Be Summer Ready campaign, which focuses primarily on water safety. The Hold Hands initiative, aimed at preschool children, was also recently launched. This launch coincides with the National Water Safety Awareness Week, which is taking place this week.
I am pleased to inform you that the traditional nationwide Water Safety Weeks programme will be going ahead. However, there are number of locations where it may not be possible to run the courses due to concerns around social distancing. Details of the programme are being finalised and will be available on the Water Safety Ireland website.
