Naturists will be sunning themselves on a beach two miles south of Brittas Bay's main strand in Co Wicklow; at Inch beach, near Dingle, Co Kerry; and at Trawalua strand in Sligo.

"Ireland is the only country in the EU that does not provide outdoor facilities for naturists, " said Pat Gallagher, president of the Irish Naturist Association. "What we are doing for World Naturist Day is making ourselves physically seen. We are then going to lobby all local authorities requesting they recognise designated naturist areas with signs reading: 'Nude bathers may be seen beyond this point'.

We are encouraging all our members to get out there on Sunday and let it be known that we are here."

The three areas being used today are already unofficial naturist beaches and Gallagher encouraged any interested newcomers to come along.

"Naturism is like everything else . . . don't knock it until you try it. Once you experience the air on your body, you'll never go back. A lot of people may think that it's sexual but that couldn't be further from the truth. It's very much nonsexual. It's all about freedom of expression and growing out of inhibition."

Under Irish law, nudity in public places is an arrestable offence if there is intent to offend.

"As far as I know, no Irish naturist has ever been arrested. We never intend to offend anyone and always go to secluded areas, " Gallagher said.

As well as unofficial beaches, the naturist association rents a pool in south Dublin twice a week for members, and also rents a pool and jacuzzi area in a hotel in North Tipperary all year round.

"There are at least 5,000 people who enjoy naturism in Ireland, " said Gallagher. "All we want are a few signs on beaches giving us some recognition that we do exist."