A number of beaches across County Louth have retained Blue Flag and Green Coast awards.

Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien TD announced the winners at an awards ceremony held in the Shoreline Hotel, overlooking Donabate's Balcarrick Blue Flag beach in Co Dublin last month. Approximately 159 awards were announced by the Minister for the 2023 season - 84 beaches and 10 marinas in Ireland received the Blue Flag Award, while 65 beaches were awarded the Green Coast Award.

This year marks the 36th year of the International Blue Flag programme. A world renowned award, the Blue Flag programme is operated in Ireland by An Taisce – the National Trust for Ireland on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Beaches and marinas that achieve this accolade must comply with a specific set of criteria relating to water quality, information provision, environmental education, safety and beach management.

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This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the National Green Coast programme. This award is for beaches which have excellent water quality and are also prized for their natural, unspoilt environment.

Beaches at Clogherhead, Port and Templetown retained the Blue Flag award for 2023, while the beach at Seapoint, Termonfeckin secured the 2023 Green Coast award again.

Speaking at the raising of the Blue Flag for 2023 at Templetown Beach, Joan Martin, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said: "We are immensely proud of the collaborative efforts that have led to this achievement, and Louth County Council remains steadfast in our commitment to preserving our environment for future generations."

Conor Keelan, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, added: "It is a testament to the tireless efforts of Louth County Council, coastal groups and the community to protect and enhance our coastline."