Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 June 2021
435. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health when Covid-19 guidelines will be issued to organisations on the management and operation of summer camps (details supplied) during the summer months in 2021; if such activities can proceed in 2021; if he will discuss this matter at his earliest convenience with public health officials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26376/21]
View answerThere has been considerable progress in reducing infection levels since the peak of the wave of infection in late 2020/early 2021 because of the widespread adherence by the public to the public health measures in place, and this progress has been sustained during recent phases of reopening in April and May. While there is still a high level of infection nationally, the situation is considered reasonably stable and significant progress is being made in relation to the roll-out of our vaccination programme.
On 28 May, Government decided to move ahead with the process of lifting restrictions further and a range of measures were eased in June. The Government has indicated that a further easing of measures will be considered from 5 July subject to the epidemiological situation at the time and Government will next week consider whether this further easing can proceed as planned.
Summer camps may proceed however camp organisers must ensure adherence to the public health measures in place at the time of the summer camp. The public health measures in place will, for example, guide the numbers permitted in pods for both indoor and outdoor activities and whether indoor catering is permitted. Details of public health measures can be found online: www.gov.ie/en/press-release/7894b-post-cabinet-statement-resilience-and-recovery-the-path-ahead/#what-you-can-do-in-july-subject-to-the-public-health-situation-at-the-time.
While there has been scope to continue with the easing of public health measures, our approach must continue to be cautious, gradual and on a phased basis, with sufficient time between any easing of measures to assess the impact. This will be critical to ensure that our progress in controlling the virus is maintained.
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. To protect the gains of recent months we must continue to practice basic preventative behaviours and to follow public health guidelines.
