Blue-green algae presence 'concerns' on East and West Strand beaches in Co Antrim
There are concerns about the presence of potentially toxic blue-green algae at East Strand and West Strand in Portrush.
RNLI Lifeguards, in conjunction with Causeway Coast and Glens Council, have red flagged both beaches following advice from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) due to 'concerns about the presence of potentially toxic blue green algae.'
RNLI lifeguards use red flags to issue specific warnings or advise against swimming and other activities in and on the water when there are concerns.
The algae can cause illness in humans and animals, and there has been a number of dog deaths due to the Algae.
The potentially toxic algae was most recently detected on Thursday at Magilligan Point in Co Londonderry.
DAERA is monitoring the situation with stakeholders including the Causeway Coast and Glens Council.
In a statement, Causeway Coast and Glens Council said:
"Council has been monitoring the recreational beaches, harbours and marinas within its management, for a possible reoccurrence of Blue Green Algae.
"Inspection of coastal waters within the last 24 hours has suggested there may be the presence of Blue Green Algae, and as a precaution Council is advising against swimming (including keeping pets away from the tide line) and other water-based activities.
"Officers are in communication with DAERA, who will be taking water samples for analysis. If after analysis, levels are shown to be above World Health Organisation guidelines, a further update will be issued.
"After consultation with the RNLI, the decision has been made to put in place Red Flag Status at East Strand and West Bay beaches (Portrush).
"For further information or if you suspect you have seen this algae, please contact the Northern Ireland Environment Agency using their reporting app for suspected sightings of blue green algae. The Bloomin’ Algae app is free to download directly from Google Play or App Store."
A DAERA spokesperson:
“The presence of blue green algae is being investigated at Portrush Harbour and Portstewart Harbour after reports made to DAERA on Friday 28 July. Signage has been erected to alert the public by the relevant landowners.
“To date, no evidence of blue green algae has been reported at the adjacent identified bathing water sites to Portrush Harbour and Portstewart Harbour.
“Landowners or operators are responsible for managing and assessing risks associated with blue-green algae. Please follow advice provided by the landowner or operator of the river, lake or beach.
“The public are reminded that if they are at a river, lake or the sea and suspect there is blue-green algae that they should report it through the Bloomin’ Algae App. This helps make reporting of blue-green algae easier and quicker, allowing environmental experts to respond faster and issue public warnings more efficiently. It enables users to submit a photo of an algae bloom on their mobile device, along with the location and activities taking place in the associated waters.”
Any concerns should be reported to DAERA through the Emergency Pollution Hotline on 0800 807060 or at Emergency-Pollution@daera-ni. gov.uk.
DAERA and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council have been approached for comment.
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