Sir, – In response to David Cassidy’s letter (Letters, July 21st), in my equally “non-scientific” opinion, I believe the smells that Mr Cassidy refers to are from decaying algae named ectocarpus which the council collects and removes as it builds up on the beach at this time of year. This algae is harmless but does give off odours similar to sewage at the latter stages of decay. It may be unpleasant but in no way affects safety. The water quality in Dollymount is monitored during the summer and was rated as “excellent” on that particular day as it has been all year. – Yours, etc,
PATRICIA MULDOON,
Clontarf,
Dublin 3.