Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 September 2020
754. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Health his plans to increase the number of persons permitted to attend weddings and civil ceremonies if the venues allow for full adherence to the Covid-19 guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23830/20]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the situation regarding COVID- has been, and continues to be, an evolving one. COVID-19 is still having a major impact both here in Ireland and elsewhere. The measures in place and the public health advice have been adapted to the changing circumstances and this will continue to be the case for the foreseeable future.
On 18 August, 2020 the Government introduced a number of enhanced public health measures in response to an increase in the number of cases in the previous weeks, with multiple outbreaks across workplaces, households, and in sports clubs. Internationally we have also seen a significant acceleration in the spread of COVID-19.
The measures introduced were required to protect the vulnerable in our communities, enable schools to reopen and support the resumption of health services.
As part of the measures announced, limits on mass gatherings were reintroduced. However, weddings are exempt from these limits and can be held with up to 50 people in attendance including staff working at the venue. The Health Act 1947 (Section 31A – Temporary Restrictions) (Covid-19) (No. 4) Regulations 2020 (S.I. No. 326 of 2020) provides the legal basis for this exemption. The Regulations also provide that a closing time of 11.30pm will apply to businesses selling intoxicating liquor for consumption on the premises.
The measures in place around weddings and other gatherings and the public health advice is kept under continuing review by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET). As I am sure the Deputy can appreciate, the evidence relating to the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the decisions necessary to protect everybody living in Ireland from its effects is constantly evolving.
It is not possible to say what circumstances will apply in the future due to the nature of the virus that has caused this global pandemic and the concerns that remain about the very serious threats to health that can be caused by this virus.
The latest public health advice on these matters is available at the following links and is updated on a regular basis:
https://www.gov.ie/en/organisation/department-of-health/
https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/
