Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
1047. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Health if amusement parks are included in the reopening subject to prevailing public health situation of outdoor visitor attractions such as zoos, open pet farms and heritage sites on 26 April 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22038/21]
View answerLevel 5 restrictive measures currently remain in place. Any measures introduced at any level of the Plan are aimed at limiting the spread and damage of COVID-19 and are necessary to protect our key priorities of supporting and maintaining health and social care services, keeping education and childcare services open and protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities.
The Government announced a slight easing of restrictions from 12 April in recognition of the significant impact that the extended period of Level 5 restrictions is having on people. The focus of this easing of measures is on enabling more outdoor activities in order to improve the health and well-being of society. The situation will be subject to ongoing review taking account of the evolving epidemiological situation, the impact of the reopening of priority services, and available evidence in relation to vaccine deployment, uptake and effectiveness. The NPHET and the Government will consider the position again at the end of this month and it is anticipated that a roadmap for the further easing of measures over the coming months will be agreed.
From 26th April, outdoor visitor attractions can reopen (for example: zoos, open pet farms, heritage sites). The regulations specify that amusement parks are not included in the relevant recreational premises that are permitted to reopen. The regulation providing for these measures is S.I. No. 193 of 2021 Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2021 which can be viewed at:
https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/1f150-view-statutory-instruments-related-to-the-covid-19-pandemic/
Further information on level 5 public health restrictions can be viewed at:
https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/2dc71-level-5/
Significant progress has been made on suppressing the virus due to the huge effort of our citizens. By working together, we have saved lives and limited the impact of the disease on society in Ireland. We all must continue to do everything possible to avoid the virus spreading.
