Clare Water Safety Officer Hopeful New National Strategy Will Reverse Drowning Trends 

It's hoped the first ever national swimming strategy, which has just been published, will reverse drowning trends in Clare and across the country. The new government plan will aim to provide everyone with an opportunity to swim, with a view to improving general water safety awareness and developing elite athletes. Among the key pillars of the strategy are upgrading of local facilities and the creation of a €500,000 fund to hire swim activators to work within local authority areas. Clare Water Safety Officer Clare McGrath insists, if implemented correctly, the programme will save lives in the future.