The Taoiseach has promised the people of Strandhill, Co Sligo, that the Government will try to ensure that there is never a repeat of the recent accident in which three local teenagers were drowned.
Mr Ahern visited Strandhill beach and met local representatives who told him an independent safety survey was required.
Such a survey, they said, could be carried out by the Royal National Lifesaving Institute for £2,000. They also called for an immediate reinstatement of a lifeguard service and for repairs on the local slipway.
Meanwhile, a meeting was held yesterday in Sligo between members of the county council, the National Safety Council, the Garda and members of the Irish Marine Emergency Service. It is understood that the meeting paid particular attention to a 1994 report from the National Safety Council which said Strandhill beach was too dangerous for bathing.
The Taoiseach said last night he was also "concerned about the other problems of poor access and coastal erosion".