Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 May 2021
350. Deputy Kieran O'Donnell asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if water parks are permitted to reopen along with swimming pools and leisure centres on 7 June 2021 in line with the easing of Covid-19 restrictions. [26188/21]
View answerIn recognition of the improving epidemiological situation, the Government announced a roadmap on 29 April for the gradual lifting of some restrictions over May and June, with a particular focus on allowing more outdoor activities. A range of measures are now being eased, with a further easing of measures in June subject to the epidemiological situation at the time. Further detail is available on Gov.ie: https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/0bd80-new-public-health-measures-announced-the-path-ahead/
NPHET has advised that this phased plan for the months of May and June can be considered low to medium risk. However, they also advise that a faster reopening over these months would be very high risk. A number of higher-risk activities, including congregated settings such as those occurring in water parks, are not part of the reopening plans for May and June, but they will be subject to further consideration towards the end of June with a view to recommencing these activities as we move through the summer.
Significant progress has been made on suppressing the virus over recent months due to the huge effort of people across the country. 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 continue to avoid the virus spreading and to support the safe reopening of activities over the coming months.
