Opening arguments began Wednesday in a case against Suffolk County that claims it is responsible for restoring South Shore beaches that have fallen victim to erosion.

Cynthia Ireland, of Sagaponack, says her 70-year-old summer beach house has very little beach left. She is trying to force the county to make good on a 40-year-old promise to restore it and other beaches.

Ireland?s son Gary, her attorney, says the case against the county is simple. He asserts the county put jetties in the water to prevent erosion in certain areas, knowing they would destroy the beaches down drift.

Cynthia Ireland says she had to move her home back twice so it wouldn?t fall into the water.

The Town of Southampton is also suing Suffolk County, saying is has the sole responsibility to replenish the sand that the jetties kept away.

In opening arguments, attorneys for the county argued the jetties are stabilizing the inlet and reducing erosion. Ireland is expected to take the stand early next week. The trial is expected to last about two weeks.