SEAWEED on Ladies Beach in Salthill is curtailing the enjoyment of those who visit it, says one city councillor.

Councillor Donal Lyons is calling on the Galway City Council to remove seaweed on the beach, which was in abundance at the weekend, just as the sun came out making people flock to Salthill.

According to Cllr Lyons the Department of Transport, Infrastructure, Recreation and amenities is given a budget to maintain the beaches around the city and seaweed removal is part of this.

“What happens is the seaweed blows in, then the sand blows on top of it and then weeds grow on top of that. It’s difficult to put weed killer on the weeds then as it’s so close to the sea.

“It’s curtailing enjoyment for people who use the beach when seaweed is everywhere. I understand in winter why it would be left but during the summer, especially after the last few days, it’s important to get it done.

“I will be keeping an eye on this issue and recommending a clean up of the seaweed on the beach,” Cllr Lyons concluded.

A spokesperson for the city council explained that the department keeps a close eye on the beach and if the seaweed is there for a long period and shows no sign of being washed out, then it is removed.

“With high spring tides, often the seaweed can be carried up the beach, and then not washed out again as the following tides are not as high,” said the spokesman.

He confirmed that they will review the situation, and with the beach being used for the Ironman event in September, the beach will be cleaned for that.