Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2020
993. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a submission submitted by an organisation (details supplied) has been considered; if in particular, riding schools can re-open in either phase one or two of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business in view of the fact that social distancing rules can be adhered to and that it is an outdoor activity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5932/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraA COVID-19 Sports Monitoring Group, chaired at Ministerial level, has been established to engage directly with the sporting bodies. Sport Ireland is also directly engaging with the sporting bodies in relation to the development of protocols to facilitate a safe return to training and competition, including for equestrian activity.
As a result of these engagements, the National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of fifteen sporting activities, including Horse Sport Ireland for its outdoor equestrian sport, have developed protocols to allow its outdoor activities to be practiced safely in compliance with the prevailing public health advice under Phase One of the Roadmap for re-opening Society and Business. These protocols have been disseminated by the NGBs to their clubs and members.
Indoor equestrian sport remains closed and is scheduled to re-open in a later phase of the Roadmap for re-opening Society and Business, subject to the prevailing public health advice at that time.
