Mr. Phil Hogan, T.D., Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, today announced the introduction of the "National Water Safety Awareness Award". This is a series of courses aimed at workers who work in, on or near water. As well as a general course there are three site specific courses – beaches, rivers/streams & fast water and water supply/pumping stations & reservoirs.

The Minister was attending the annual conference of the Water Safety Development Officers (WSDO) conference being held in Carlow. WSDOs are employed by Local Authorities and work for the promotion of Water Safety in their local areas.

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"These courses will enable personnel to work safely in an aquatic environment," commented the Minister. "It is vital that workers exposed to water as part of their work environment are aware of the hazards and are at least aware of simple rescue techniques."

The National Water Safety Awareness Award site specific courses will be provided by Irish Water Safety (IWS) Accredited personnel. The Minister thanked IWS for the work involved in developing these courses. "No doubt this will lead to a safer working environment for people involved in these environments. Staff should be mindful of the potential dangers of water and take adequate steps to minimise the risk," added Minister Hogan.

(CD/GK)