In a world where casual nakedness is frowned upon, and in most cases, you can even be prosecuted, marking off public areas for naturism is a landmark change in policy in Ireland. The announcement comes after recent national shifts in the law which legalized public nudity on beaches that have official signage.
The health and social benefits of going nude in a natural setting have been promoted by proponents of naturism. Exposure to sunlight, reduction of stress, anxiety, and depression, increased body positivity and harmony with nature and respect for the environment are among some of the benefits Naturist Associations have listed.
The INA stated that the beach will be open to people who choose to wear clothes — which the naturism community refer to as “textiles” — and the erected signage will act as a warning to the public so as not to cause alarm. Gallagher explained:
“It will more than likely say something like ‘nude bathers may be seen beyond this point’.”
“So for someone reading that, if for any reason they are in fear or distress, at least they will have notification that there may be nude bathers.”
Gallagher argues seeing a warning such as this is quite normal on the coast of Europe and this is a vital step for Ireland and may well boost tourism in the region. The INA is currently in negotiation with a number of local authorities about getting similar signage placed at other beaches. Although nudist holidaymakers will need to brave the low temperatures, this movement could make Ireland a leading destination for those coming to Europe. 