On the first anniversary of the triple drowning at Strandhill in Sligo, locals say they are angry because vital measures to ensure such a tragedy never recurs have not been taken.
Three teenagers from the Co Sligo village of Gurteen - Bobby Taylor, Michael Higgins and Tommy Coyle - drowned on May 17th last. They were swept out to sea after being only waist-high in the water. None could swim.
Strandhill beach attracts surfers from all over Ireland. It will also be the location for a number of major surfing competitions this year. But it is unsafe for swimming, and lifeguards were removed in 1995 following a report from the National Safety Council.
A delegation from the Strandhill Community Organisation met the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, last Saturday when he visited the area, and criticised Sligo County Council's record in managing the beach.
The chairman of the group, Mr David Tighe, said the dangers were well-recognised before last summer's tragedy. He said only five of 16 recommendations in an 1992 NSC report were implemented. The group's submission to the Taoiseach described the county council's response to safety requirements as "pathetic".
However, there is some progress after meetings during the year between the group and county council officials. County secretary Mr Tim Caffrey said warning signage had been greatly improved and the beach would be inspected regularly to ensure the slipway was kept clear.
On the day of the drowning, locals and emergency crews had to lift a rescue boat over large rocks blocking the slipway.
It is generally agreed a new slipway is needed, but this would cost between £200,000 and £300,000. Mr Caffrey said an application had been resubmitted to Government departments requesting funding.
Mr Tighe said a beach information service was essential to avert further tragedies. People continued to get in the water last summer and locals had to warn and rescue them on a number of occasions. The community organisation has also asked for some emergency response equipment.