Tourism interests in Galway have been disappointed to learn that tests carried out on bathing waters in Salthill have revealed the continued presence of the salmonella bug.
Galway Corporation had hoped to remove signs, erected last year, advising swimmers of the presence of the bug in the water after three tests proved clear in recent months.
However, tests carried out on June 13th again confirmed the presence of the bug, which can cause severe gastric problems.
The Galway city manager, Mr Joe Gavin, said the problem would be solved when the Mutton Island sewage treatment plant became operational in the summer of 2002.
Ms Carolyn Shiels, of the Salthill Tourism and Development Association, said it was disappointing that salmonella had been found again in the water.
"Naturally, I am disappointed that it was found again this year, but I know people who swim there every day of the year and they never get sick."
Salthill businessman and Galway Corporation member Mr John Mulholland said there was nothing more the local authority could do but alert the public to the presence of the salmonella.
Construction work began last month on the final phase of the £48 million Mutton Island plant.
