The Government recognises the importance of a broader resumption of sport for both children and adults. In that context, my Department and Sport Ireland are engaging with the various sporting bodies to inform a review of the measures currently in place for sporting activity, which will be considered by Government early in the New Year.
In the current Level 3 restrictions, which will continue until 18 December, the Government are asking everyone to stay within their county apart from work, education, medical and other essential purposes, if appropriate. Travel for sports training or exercise is not considered an essential purpose so we would ask people not to travel outside their county to participate in golf, target shooting or other sporting activities at this time.
The Government fully acknowledges the benefits of sport and physical activity for people’s mental and physical wellbeing and has done its utmost to facilitate sport as much as it can within the confines imposed by the public health situation, which remains a serious and ongoing threat to people’s lives.