§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland which beaches in Northern Ireland satisfy the requirements of the European Economic Community and are classified as beaches safe from pollution.
§ Mr. NeedhamIn Northern Ireland 14 waters have been identified under the EC directive on bathing-water quality. The directive applies to waters where bathing is traditionally practised by large numbers of people. Non-identification under the directive does not mean that water is unclear or unsafe. Of the five Northern Ireland bathing waters tested for compliance with the directive standards during the 1986 season, Portstewart, Portrush and Groomsport passed while Bangor (Ballyholme) and Newcastle failed. The cause of the failure at Bangor is being investigated and a new sewerage scheme for Newcastle at a cost of £2 million is nearing completion. I am advised that there is no evidence associating illness with bathing in Northern Ireland waters.