Motion raised over safety at Limerick swimming spot

CALLS were made for year-round maintenance of the slipways at Glin Pier in Limerick as the location has become popular for swimmers outside of the warmer months.

There is an increasing danger of accidents in the colder months as the slipways become treacherous in icy and rainy weather.

Glin has become a popular destination for tourists near and far over the last number of years as the area is home to Glin Castle, the Knights of Glin Experience and is located on the Shannon Estuary, providing opportunities for swimmers to enjoy a dip in the waters near Glin Pier.

According to Fine Gael councillor for the area, John Sheahan Glin Pier is an “exceptional amenity” for the area and for County Limerick.

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“I must compliment the council of the implementation of lifeguards, the pier is becoming increasingly more popular with people swimming there all year round,” Cllr Sheahan said.

Glin Pier became a more popular swimming destination during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns when community members began increasingly using their local amenities.

Cllr Sheahan also praised the potential the pier has for hosting local events with a pink swim taking place at the location at the end of last month in aid of breast cancer awareness and research.

According to John Sheehan, senior executive engineer for transportation and mobility for the Newcastle West district, Limerick City and County Council (LCCC) already have a schedule in place for the permanent maintenance of paths and slipways. This is bi-weekly during the summer season and monthly over the rest of the year. According to Mr John Sheehan, this is “ongoing and subject to funding being available”.