Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore has demanded a full explanation from Uisce Éireann after a 60-day ‘Do Not Swim’ notice came into effect at two popular beaches in north county Dublin due to a sewage pump failure.
Deputy Whitmore, who is the party’s environment spokesperson, said:
“Fingal County Council has announced that Rush North and Rush South beaches will be closed to swimming for most of the summer – just days after the official bathing season commenced.
“The restrictions came into force after two pumps tripped out at the Tower Bay wastewater pumping station a number of days ago. It’s understood it was not possible to reset one of the pumps, requiring a new one to be ordered.
“However, Uisce Éireann has advised that there is a long lead-in time for the replacement pump, with delivery and installation not expected until the end of July. While the company insists there has been no uncontrolled release into the sea so far, there is potential for one – resulting in the implementation of a two-month Do Not Swim notice.
“Investigations indicate the failure was due to wear and tear, which begs the obvious question: why was this potential problem not identified earlier during routine inspections of the pumping station? This could have preempted the current situation and resulted in a replacement pump being ordered as a precautionary measure.
“This is devastating news for local sea swimmers in Rush and the many visitors who travel to these two popular beaches on sunny days. The loss of these valuable amenities will also have a negative impact on the many local coffee shops, restaurants and pubs that depend on tourism.
“Of major concern, however, is the potential for sewage overflow into the sea and the significant consequences such an ecological disaster would have for marine life, public health and the local environment.
“I will be writing to Uisce Éireann to demand a full explanation for how this disgraceful situation could occur, and for a full assessment of the condition of equipment at wastewater pumping stations along our coastline to be carried out.
“I have also asked Social Democrats councillor Paul Mulville, who represents Rush-Lusk, to raise this extremely serious incident with Fingal County Council.”
June 10, 2026