Lifeguard strike may close pools

SOME public swimming pools will be closed today because of a strike by lifeguards over pay and conditions.

Local newspaper reports suggest the turnout varies greatly from one pool to the next, so it is worth checking before making a journey.

The lifeguards are calling for better recognition of their job and are protesting against changes to the entry requirements for the job, which they fear could see less-qualified candidates put in charge of swimmers' safety.

They also want better pay, retirement at 57 because of difficult working conditions, and are fighting to defend their status as civil servants at a time when a number of municipal pools are being outsourced to private firms.