Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 September 2020
690. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Health the position to be employed by dance schools under the public health guidelines in respect of the numbers that can be accommodated in classes and other pertinent information or clarification that can be provided to this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23483/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra755. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Health if dancing classes are permitted to recommence in circumstances in which there are small groups or the capacity to be socially distant exists during a class. [23833/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra788. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Health if dance classes can have more than six participants if they have the space to socially distance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23992/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 690, 755 and 788 together.
The Deputies will be aware that the situation regarding COVID-19 has been, and continues to be, an evolving situation. COVID-19 is still having a major impact both here in Ireland and elsewhere. The measures in place and the public health advice have been adapted to the changing circumstances and this will continue to be the case for the foreseeable future.
Progress has been made in suppressing the virus due to the huge effort of our citizens. 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 avoid the virus spreading.
The public health advice relating to Covid-19 is kept under continuing review by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), and it provides advice to Government in line with the current epidemiological position. The latest public health advice on these matters is available at the links below and is updated on a regular basis:
https://www.gov.ie/en/organisation/department-of-health/
https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/
https://www.gov.ie/en/
The recently introduced regulations [(S.I. 326 of 2020) Health Act 1947 (Section 31a – Temporary Restrictions) (Covid-19) (No. 4) Regulations 2020], which state that events being organised indoors may have no more than 6 attendees apply to social, recreational, exercise, cultural, entertainment and community events. Additional guidance has been provided in relation to activities such as exercise, sports training, dance and drama classes. These activities should be limited to 6 people and observe physical distancing rules. Multiple pods of up to 6 people in each may operate if sufficient space is available and strict public health protocols are in place. There should be no mixing between groups. Sport Ireland guidance can be found here: https://www.sportireland.ie/news/sport-ireland-issues-practical-guidance-for-sport-on-covid-19-measures.
