No Christmas Day swim for Tánaiste at Forty Foot – dry robe or no dry robe – Carroll MacNeill

While Tánaiste Leo Varadkar was hugely welcomed to Dublin’s Forty Foot last Christmas Day, things are going to be a little different this year, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Following an appeal today from Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, the Gardaí and the HSE asking the public not to visit the Forty Foot, Sandycove and Seapoint bathing areas this Christmas, Dún Laoghaire TD Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said the annual Christmas Day swim is going to look different for everyone this year due to Covid-19 in an effort to keep our friends and family safe over the break.

Deputy Carroll MacNeill said, “I was delighted to join the Tánaiste Leo Varadkar and Senator Barry Ward for a swim at the Forty Foot last Christmas day, but I’m going to have to ask the Tánaiste to avoid braving the elements for just this year.

“Gathering at your local beach on Christmas Day is an important festive tradition for many people around the country, but sadly it’s just not feasible for it to happen in the same way this year.

“I urge people to consider doing their dip on a different day, once over the Christmas break is enough of a challenge for anyone and we can’t risk creating serious super spreader events just for a festive jump in the cold water.

“If you do decide to swim on Christmas day, maybe find a quieter spot, make sure that you remember to keep your distance and avoid large gatherings and lingering around for a cup of coffee afterwards.

“I look forward to welcoming the Tánaiste back to the Dún Laoghaire constituency for a swim next Christmas, but for now we can all get a pass on donning our swimsuits on the 25^th – dry robes or no dry robes.”

ENDS