With the good weather continuing and many holidaying at home this year, An Garda Síochána Water Unit would like to remind the public to take extra care when using all of our inland and coastal waterways, especially lakes, rivers and canals that may not have lifeguards present.
They urge everyone to be aware of your environment, any warning signs and your own abilities around water and if possible wear a buoyancy aid or life jacket. No matter what your ability is, anyone can drown but no one should.
Following consultation with An Garda Síochána, Water Safety Ireland wishes to inform all members of the Water Safety services currently deemed essential under public health legislation.
WSI personnel may revalidate and train up new Beach & River lifeguards, which will enable our organisation to have sufficient lifeguards for Local Authorities to employ and deploy on our beaches, rivers and lakes for the 2021 bathing season. The Gardaí have interpreted the beach and river lifeguard service as an essential service to the state and that these lifeguards are essential workers.
It will be a matter for local Gardaí to investigate any possible breaches under Regulation 11 of SI No: 701 0f 2020. If our classes are not in support of an essential service and the participants are not essential workers, then it is a “training event” and is in breach of Regulation 11 of SI No: 701 0f 2020.A pool lifeguard is not an essential service at this time and these premises should be closed until restrictions are lifted.
CLASSES, TRAINING & REVALIDATION ALLOWED UNDER CURRENT GOVERNMENT GUIDELINES
- All Lifeguard courses can be run at this time.
- Surf Instructor beach safety awards and revalidation can take place.
- Swimming classes are allowed from 7th June.
- Training for the sport of Lifesaving is now permitted.
- Summer Week classes can resume this summer.