Do Not Swim in place for Rush North and South

Uisce Éireann have advised that there is a risk of overflow at the Tower Bay Wastewater Pumping Station, as the station is now operating with only one pump. Pumps 1 and 2 tripped out on 07/06/2026 and pump 1 couldn't be reset. 

A new pump has been ordered but there is a long lead-in time, with expected delivery and installation by the end of July 2026. Investigations indicate that the failure was due to normal wear and tear. The WWPS will be monitored daily. There has been no uncontrolled release, but there is potential for one.

Given the seriousness of the situation, which may directly impact Rush North and Rush South beaches, we will be implementing a “Do Not Swim” notice as a precautionary measure to protect public health, including the placement of signage at both beaches.

This decision also considers the rainfall forecast for the coming days, which may further increase the risk of an overflow.

As the replacement pump is not expected to be in place until the end of July, this measure may remain in place for up to approximately two months.

Beach users are asked to respect the ‘Do Not Swim’ notice as it has been put in place to ensure that the health of bathers is not compromised.

Members of the public can check for water quality at any of the monitored bathing waters in Ireland in advance by accessing the EPA website at https://ow.ly/ZCg550Z8nsJ or by checking the notice board at the entrance to each beach. 

To view  an explanation of the standards used for reporting results of bathing water please go to  https://ow.ly/WePe50Z8nsL