Blue flag raised on Waterford beach for first time in 13 years
Pictured at Bunmahon were members of Bunmahon Tidy Towns, An Taisce and Waterford City and County Council: Cllr Liam Brazil, Cathal Queally, Orlaith Brady, Gabriel Hynes, Dawn Wallace, Brian Fleming, Maria Assunta Lawton, Roisín Fitzgerald, Cathaoirleach of the Comeragh District Area, Cllr. Seánie Power, Eamonn Morrissey, Claire Kenny, Cllr Catherine Burke, Adam James, Johnny Hurley, Cian Gill and Gerry Walsh. Photograph: Patrick Browne
The Blue Flag was raised at Bunmahon Beach in Co Waterford on Tuesday, June 23rd, marking the first time since 2013 that the beach has received the internationally recognised award.
The Blue Flag awards were presented by An Taisce in May this year, with Waterford’s coastline receiving three for the 2026 bathing season.
Bunmahon Beach received its first Blue Flag in 13 years, while Clonea Beach and Tramore Beach both retained their Blue Flag status.
Speaking at the awards ceremony last month, Minister for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD said: “These awards are testament to the hard work of local authorities and local communities around the country to keep our coastal areas clean. The Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised environmental awards and I’m proud to see so many Irish beaches and marinas receive this status today."
"Those who receive this award have demonstrated high standards around water quality, biodiversity protection and have shown strong collaboration with local tourism service providers to lead the way in sustainable coastal management," he said.
Meanwhile, Cathaoirleach of the Comeragh District, Cllr Seánie Power, said Bunmahon’s Blue Flag was a significant milestone for the area.
“This is a significant milestone for Bunmahon and a testament to the dedication and commitment of all those who have worked so hard to make it possible," he said.
"Bunmahon is not alone in this achievement; we are also delighted that both Clonea Beach and Tramore Beach have retained their Blue Flag status for 2026, further strengthening Waterford’s reputation for having some of the finest beaches in the country," he added.
He went on to acknowledge everyone who worked towards helping the beach achieve its Blue Flag status, commenting: "I would like to sincerely acknowledge and commend everyone who has contributed to this fantastic achievement for Bunmahon - Waterford City and County Council, An Taisce, local volunteers, community organisations, and all those who care so deeply about protecting and enhancing our coastal environment."
"This achievement belongs to you all," he said.
In addition to Waterford’s three Blue Flags, the county also saw a significant increase in Green Coast Awards, rising from six to 10 award-winning beaches this year.
The Green Coast Awards recognise beaches that excel in environmental quality, natural beauty and community stewardship.
Bunmahon, Clonea, Tramore and Whiting Bay joined this year’s list of award recipients, alongside Ballyquin, Curragh, Goat Island, Guillamene Cove, Kilfarrassy and Newtown Cove.
Gabriel Hynes, Director of Services for Environment with Waterford City and County Council, said: “We are particularly delighted that Bunmahon has received a Blue Flag for the first time since 2013. Waterford now has three beaches with dual Blue Flag and Green Coast Award status: Bunmahon, Clonea and Tramore, so today is cause for a double celebration for Bunmahon.”
The return of the Blue Flag to Bunmahon reflects a continued focus on water quality, coastal care and sustainable management across Waterford’s bathing areas.
