FOR ANYONE WHO may not be in the know, there exist a number of beaches around Ireland which are particularly popular with naturists.

And The Irish Naturist Association are hopeful that recent news confirming that Hawk Cliff in Dalkey is set to receive signs indicating the presence of naked bathers will act as a game-changer on the naturist front.

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The Dalkey beach will be the first beach in Ireland to feature public signs notifying the community of nude bathers – a decision which is considered a milestone moment by the Irish Naturist Association.

Speaking to The Irish Sun, chief Pat Gallagher confirmed the development, and asserted that the signs will act as a warning to the public in the event that any offence may be caused.

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Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown have indicated they will put up signage in this area. They are simply putting a sign up that will indicate nude bathers may be using this area. It will more than likely say something like ‘nude bathers may be seen beyond this point’.

Clarifying the purpose of the signs, Pat indicated support of an inclusive approach.

We have never asked any local authority to designate areas specifically for naturists. We have always used the term ‘clothing optional’. The council won’t be ­authorising this as a naturist or nudist area. They are simply saying people use the area for nude bathing so you are pre-warned.

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The move marks a significant development for Ireland’s naturist community, and may herald the beginning of a more inclusive approach on the nation’s beaches.

We have approached several local authorities with the idea that they put signage on areas that are well used to indicate that nude bathers may be seen. If for anyone reason you are offended by that at least you are pre-warned. We are waiting on two more councils to see if they are going to follow suit.

But what will this mean for bathers who have no intention of baring all?

Well, not much really as the INA reiterate their inclusive stance on the matter.

We don’t go out to offend anyone. We simply want to go there, lie in the sun, get in the water, have a swim . . . but we don’t want to wear anything, that’s all.

The sign is set to appear later this month.

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