Ulster Unionist Environment spokesperson Tom Elliott has welcomed the award of Blue Flags to Northern Ireland beaches, seaside resorts and marinas
Mr Elliott said:
“Today’s news that 11 of our beaches have been awarded International Blue Flag status is really great news and builds on the Marine Conservation Society’s “Good Beach Guide” which found that 16 of our 24 beaches were listed as excellent and recommended for their bathing water quality and all 24 met the basic bathing water standard.
As is widely recognised, our coastal scenery and our beaches are a huge asset to Northern Ireland, and are enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.
With Tourism being increasingly important to our economy, it is obviously essential that we do all we can to ensure that we protect our natural environment and in particular our beaches.”