As the bathing season commences, Lifeguard Services are being provided by Kilkenny County Council's Lifeguard Team once again this year and our Lifeguards are preparing to oversee the safety of the public at the traditional swimming areas across the County commencing Saturday 6th June.

Lifeguards will be available at these areas for the summer months. Risk assessments have been conducted in conjunction with Kilkenny Water Safety for each site and recommendations arising out of same have been addressed.

In response to the Covid -19 pandemic, swimming at these areas and the provision of the Lifeguard service will be in strict accordance with national public health advice. We are promoting a "Swim and Go" policy this summer to avoid large gatherings of people at our swimming areas.

"As with every other Summer Season, our lifeguard service has will be in place. While we as a Council promote water safety rigorously every year, this year we are asking members of the public to adhere to government guidelines in relation to hygiene etiquette and social distancing. Let's all stay safe by following the HSE Guidelines and respecting the water" says Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Peter 'Chap' Cleere.

Lifeguards will be on duty at the five locations at the times listed below, on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month of June and 7 days a week during the months of July and August:

- The Meadows, Kilkenny City
- The Weir, Bleach Road, Kilkenny City
- Thomastown
- Inistioge
- Graiguenamanagh

Lifeguards on duty
From: 2.00 p.m. to 4.30 p.m.
And 5.00 p.m to 7.30 p.m.
Each day from 1st July to 31st August
(weekends only from 6th June 2020)
END
Queries in relation to this Press Release can be directed to Frank Stafford at frank.stafford@kilkennycoco.ie