Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 January 2021
287. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media her response to the views of a sports club (details replied) with regard to the recent announcements and restrictions concerning Ireland entering level 3; if a level playing field will be committed to for sports of a similar nature; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44901/20]
View answerI understand that question relates to the restrictions under Level 3 which no longer apply. The gravity of the current epidemiological situation is such that the Government's clear message is for people to stay in their homes, unless necessary for those essential reasons set out in the public health regulations.
The current restrictions are clear that matches and competitive sporting events are not permitted except for professional and elite sportspeople. This is in recognition of the need to limit insofar as possible person-to-person contact to prevent transmission of COVID-19. The protocols applied for elite sports training and competition are aligned with international best practice and have been developed in consultation with the Expert Group on the Return to Sport.
My Department and Sport Ireland are also engaging with the various sporting bodies to inform a review of the broader COVID-19 measures for sporting activity, which will be considered by Government at the appropriate time. The issue of safely resuming competitions and leagues will form part of the review.
