Tuam pool secures second White Flag award

TUAM swimming pool has been awarded a prestigious White Flag Award, which recognises excellence in gyms, swimming pools and leisure amenities throughout the country. It is the second year the facility, operated by Kingfisher, has received the award along with nine other facilities throughout Galway. The White Flag Awards are judged by an independent jury made up of experts from a number of nationally recognised organisations including Fáilte Ireland, the HSE, the Irish Hotels Federation, Consumers' Association, Swim Ireland and Irish Water Safety. Judging is thorough and rigorous ensuring that fitness, gym instructors and lifeguards are fully qualified, facilities are safe, clean and hygienic; and that equipment is maintained correctly. 'A White Flag is a visible sign that a swimming pool, gym or leisure facility is operating to a high standard and is a safe place for adults and children to exercise,' said Barry Walsh, President of ILAM, the Irish leisure industry employers' body, which represents gyms, leisure centres, sports, fitness, aquatic and outdoor facilities. 'Consumers need to check that their gym or leisure centre has a White Flag when joining or attending a leisure facility.' The White Flag is the only comprehensive quality award and measurement of standards for gyms, swimming pools and leisure amenities in Ireland. The highly sought after White Flag Award is an essential quality mark that every swimming pool, sports hall, fitness studio and gym facility in Ireland must strive to achieve and its presence is critical, in the absence of any government legislation. Galway's Leisureland complex received its 11th White Flag Award as well as a silver grading in the Disability Provision Awards, which were also presented at the ceremony.