Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 September 2021
1193. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding the removal of yoga studios from class exemptions during level 3 restrictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42072/21]
View answer1228. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Health when yoga studios will be allowed to re-open (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42131/21]
View answer1247. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Health when yoga instruction and classes will be permitted to reopen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42201/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1193, 1228 and 1247 together.
As outlined in COVID-19: Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting, which was announced by Government on 31 August, organised indoor group activities including sports and dance classes can take place from 20 September with capacity limits of 100 people (with appropriate protective measures) where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within previous 6 months) or accompanied minors (under 18). Where patrons have mixed immunity status, pods of up to 6 participants will be permitted with multiple pods permitted subject to protective measures.
Based on the criteria of at or close to 90% of people 16 or over being fully vaccinated and having regard to the incidence and behaviour of the disease at that time, from 22 October onwards remaining restrictions on indoor sports activities and other indoor leisure/community activities and certification of immunity or testing as a prerequisite for access to, or engagement in, any activities or events (with exception of international travel) will be lifted.
Since the onset of the pandemic, we have saved lives and limited the impact of the disease on society in Ireland due to the huge effort of people across the country. Thanks to the hard work of the Irish people and the progress of our vaccination programme, we are now entering a new phase in the management of the pandemic. As our approach to the management of COVID-19 transitions from population wide restrictions to guidance we must continue to practice basic preventative behaviours, including in relation to self-isolation and restricting movements when advised, observing good respiratory and hand hygiene, physical distancing and mask wearing when appropriate.
COVID-19: Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting can be found online: www.gov.ie/en/press-release/f5291-post-cabinet-statement-covid-19-reframing-the-challenge-continuing-our-recovery-and-reconnecting/
