Cork County Council had issued the warnings on Friday last after heavy rainfall caused the levels of E coli at the beaches to breach EU mandatory permitted values.

However, the council said subsequent tests had shown the levels of E coli had ''significantly decreased'', while samples taken on Wednesday at all beaches indicated ''further water quality improvement''.

As a result the council, with the agreement of the HSE, has removed its recommendation not to swim at Youghal, Claycastle, Redbarn, Coolmain, Garretstown, Oysterhaven and Garryvoe beaches.

Redbarn, Garryvoe and Garretstown all have Blue Flags, which can now be flown again.

However, bathing restrictions are still in place on Grattan Beach in Salthill, co Galway, due to a high level of E coli in the water there. The water will be tested again tomorrow morning.

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'No Swim' warning removed from seven Cork beaches