Petition launched as Galway beach faces continued water sports ban
A water sport group in Galway has launched a petition hoping to see the removal of a water sports ban in Barna before the official bathing season begins in June.
The petition, organised by Galway City Water Sports, has garnered over 1,000 signatures in less than a week and follows a nine-month battle over signage banning water sport in the area.
In July 2025, signs were suddenly erected at Silverstrand beach, a popular swim and sport location, that restricted activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing.
Galway City Water sports said that the description of banned activities “encompasses surfboards, kayaks, and stand-up paddle (SUP) boards” as well.
The group has been fighting for all beaches in Galway, including Silverstrand, to establish Blue Flag zoning plans.
Blue Flag criteria ensures beaches are set up to be a multi-use space for activities, sports, and swimmers.
Galway City Councillor Cloddagh Higgins condemned the lack of consultation prior to the signed being erected.
“This is not just about a sign, it’s about fairness, transparency, and how we manage public access to our coastline,” she said. “We must lead with inclusion and common sense. The sea belongs to everyone, and policy must reflect that.”
In September 2025, Cllr Higgins also put forward a motion against the ban, which has remained on every agenda since then.
The Strategic Policy Committee was expected to consult with Galway City Water Sports over the beach management and zoning plan.
However, the group has met with the council on four occasions, with presentations and submissions for effective management plans, to no avail.
Proposals include parameters for launch and swimmer zones, seeking 50m of the 250m beach to be designated to sport launching.
“We call upon Galway City Council to implement the motions, to remove the signs banning water sports and to Zone Silverstrand beach (for non-motorised watercraft). By aligning with Blue Flag criteria and international best practice, this will provide for safe, inclusive use of our beaches for swimmers, water sports and beach users,” the petition reads.
A video posted on Youtube by Galway City Water Sports said the distinction would see marked buoys, a checkered flag on the sand, and safety management plans, following suit with practices throughout Europe.
“Banning water sports is not the solution,” Lucy Shelley from Barna, and year-round Silverstrand swimmer, said on the video “Water sports, by and large, do not harm the environment. They are a great way to be outside.”
The Irish Independent has contacted Galway County Council for comment.