The high standard of the coastal environment in Kerry has been acknowledged with the awarding of 15 Blue Flags for Kerry beaches and coastal amenities for 2022 - the highest number in the country.

Kerry has retained its current 14 Blue Flags, including 12 at beaches and one each at the Portmagee Seasonal Pontoon (operated by Kilrush Maritime Ltd) and Fenit Marina as well as regaining the Blue Flag at Ballybunion North, bringing the total to 15.

The decision of the International Blue Flag jury was announced today (Friday) and sees the following beaches and marinas awarded Blue Flags for 2022:

Rossbeigh, Ballybunion South, Ballybunion North, Ballyheigue, Fenit, Maherbeg, Kells, Doire Fhíonáin (Derrynane), White Strand, Baile an Sceilg (Ballinskelligs), Banna, Fionntrá (Ventry), Inch, Fenit Marina and Portmagee Seasonal Pontoon.

Five Green Coast Awards have been presented for Waterville, Ballinskelligs, Béal Bán, Castlegregory and Littor beaches.

Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr Jimmy Moloney warmly welcomed the announcement as a very significant acknowledgement of the quality of beach environments in Kerry.

"Blue Flags are a very important internationally recognised indicator of the quality of a beach environment, and it is encouraging that Kerry is emerging as the national leader in this regard."

Cllr Moloney added that the awarding of the Blue Flags is a result of a collaborative approach between Kerry County Council, local community groups and beach users who work together to maintain the county's beautiful beaches and bathing waters.

"The Local Authority invests tremendous effort and resources in keeping County Kerry at the top of the Blue Flag list and will continue to ensure the sustainable management of the magnificent beaches along the Kerry coast," Director of Services, John Breen, added.

"We would appeal to all beach users this summer to continue to be responsible by acting responsibly and leaving nothing behind on the beach except their footprints."