Tide clocks at Kerry beach could ‘potentially save lives’
The KerrymanA Kerry councillor has called for tide clocks to be installed at a “dangerous” but popular beach.
Councillor Aoife Kennelly urged Kerry County Council to install tide clocks at Ballybunion Beach that she said could “potentially save lives”.
Two people drowned at Ballybunion Men’s Beach in 2022 after they were taken out to sea by strong rip currents.
While lifeguards had been trying to keep people from entering the area where the current was, the visitors were unaware of the danger and got caught in it.
“All locals in the area are aware of how quickly the tide changes in Ballybunion,” said Cllr Kennelly, “but visitors aren’t aware”.
“Having clear information as to where the tide is would make it so much safer for people that are walking or swimming on the beach.
“I think it’s a really simple practical measure that could make that beach so much safer and could potentially save lives.”
Cllr Kennelly also highlighted the caves under the Ballybunion cliffs which visitors often wander into.
She said some of the caves were very deep and a rising tide can catch people by surprise, potentially trapping them. “It’s so, so dangerous,” she said.
Cllr Kennelly pointed out that lifeguards are not around in the morning and that tide clocks could help inform beach goers during unmonitored hours.
She added it would take “a lot of pressure” off lifeguards who are tasked with monitoring multiple very busy beaches during the summer months.
Kerry County Council replied that lifeguards provide water temperature and tidal information on chalkboards at the beach, with further information included in the Blue Flag noticeboard, and there was no funding for clocks.
Cllr Kennelly questioned how much it would cost to put “a few tide clocks” on the beach, “€200?” she asked.
The council said they would investigate the cost and come back with an answer.
It comes as works are expected to commence on the long-awaited beach Ballybunion Beach Facility towards the end of the summer season.
Plans for the facility were approved at a recent Listowel Municipal District meeting with elected members told construction is expected to commence in September/October this year.
Located on Ballybunion South Beach, the proposed facility will provide toilets, showers, lockers and storage, among other amenities.
Councillors hailed the development as “hugely positive” for the area, with elected members expressing their satisfaction with the public consultation process.