Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 October 2021
37. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the status of plans for a full return of indoor sports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47927/21]
View answerThe resumption of indoor sports training and indoor physical activity has been permitted on an individual basis since 7 June. In line with the Government's recently published plan, COVID-19: Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting, there was a further significant easing of restrictions on organised indoor sporting activities from the 20th of September. This has permitted, inter alia, the resumption of indoor training on a group basis in accordance with the conditions and limits specified in the Government's plan.
Sport Ireland has also published on its website a guidance note that assists the sector in understanding the changes applicable to sport:
www.sportireland.ie/covid19/return-to-sport-and-physical-activity
Further details and updated guidance will also be available from the various National Governing Bodies (NGBs). Sport Ireland maintains a close liaison with the NGBs and provides guidance to them as required.
Having regard to the incidence and behaviour of the COVID-19 disease at the time, the Government intends to remove further statutory restrictions in respect of events and activities from the 22nd of October. This is set to include the lifting of remaining restrictions on indoor sporting activity.
I recently met representatives of the sports sector, including some indoor sports, at which it was apparent that there is a broad welcome to the Government's plan which has generated renewed and improved confidence within the sector and is facilitating a resurgence of interest and commitment amongst sporting organisations, their volunteers and their club memberships. The pace and extent of the return to both indoor and outdoor sports, within the prevailing permitted parameters, is ultimately a matter for each individual sport and is significantly dependent on the capacity of the various sporting organisations and clubs to decide at local level on how best to return.
