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GEORGE NEWS & VIDEOS - George Mayor Leon van Wyk said this afternoon, Thursday 1 December, during the official launch of two George beaches' Blue Flags that it is only a ceremonial gesture for now, since George will only hoist their Blue Flags at Wilderness and Herolds' Bay once the oil spill along the Southern Coast has been dealt with. 

"Hopefully they will deal with this within the next few days," he said. The launch took place at Salina's, a restaurant with a view over Wilderness beach.

Blue Flag beaches are required to have lifeguards on duty over peak season. 

George Herald learned this morning that some 40 lifeguards who applied for this position refused to sign their contracts earlier today. The issue relates to the daily fee offered by George Municipality, which the lifeguards feel is unfair, compared to what is on offer elsewhere by other municipalities. 

At the moment none of George's beaches have lifeguards on duty. 

Van Wyk said the matter is receiving urgent attention.

VIDEO: George Burgemeester, Leon van wyk, gesels oor olielek

VIDEO: George Burgemeester, Leon van Wyk, gesels oor olielek

VIDEO: Water restrictions in the spotlight 

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