The most popular area for women, with prams and young children was a safe area, known as the "Babies Piss" so called for obvious reasons. Next
to the "Babies Piss" was another spot, called the "Mud Hole" where children played and covered themselves in mud, then jumped into the water and washed themselves down. This spot was just in front of where the new exercise machines are, but is now completely
overgrown.
Gerard Real has since told me that in his time, the spot was known as "Sandymount" I have to say, that name does sound more polite.