Two beaches in Co Mayo and one in Co Donegal have failed to retain their blue flag status for 2019.

Bundoran Beach in Co Donegal, and Bertra Strand and Golden Strand in Co Mayo did not meet the strict criteria for Blue Flag status this year, according to a report in The Irish Times.  While "excellent" water quality is required to achieve Blue Flag status, the water at these beaches has been downgraded to "good". But it wasn't all bad news in Co Donegal, as Rathmullan Marino was awarded the Blue Flag status for the first time this year - meaning 80 Irish beaches in total were awarded the status, down from 82 last year. Kerry is currently the county with the most Blue Flag beaches, with a total of 13 beaches and one marina fitting the criteria. The Blue Flag, awarded by An Taisce, works towards sustainable development at beaches and marinas through strict criteria dealing with water quality, environmental education, environmental management and safety.

The full list of Blue Flag beaches in Ireland for 2019:

Image via Irish Times