Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
108. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if discussions have taken place on the recommencing of sport for all age groups; her plans to allow spectators to attend sporting events; if consideration has been given to the use of antigen testing to assist in the reopening of society; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21973/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMinister Martin and I have an ongoing engagement with stakeholders in the sports sector, as do the officials in my Department and also Sport Ireland. This engagement enables an effective exchange of views on all matters concerning the impact of the pandemic on sport, including the importance of recommencing sport for all age groups at the earliest possible date. The Government will meet before the end of the week to consider the next phase of the reopening based on public health advice and taking account of the engagement with the sector.
Insofar as attendance by spectators at sporting events is concerned, we will continue to be guided by health officials on how best to allow safe attendance at such events. Under the Government’s Living with Covid-19 plan, spectators are permitted to attend sporting events in limited numbers when the relevant area of the country is at Level 1 or at Level 2. As the country is currently at Level 5, no spectators are permitted at sports matches or events.
In order to ensure effective preparation for the safe return of spectators, draft guidelines have been developed for very large purpose built event facilities such as sports stadia. This guidance has been submitted to the public health authorities for their consideration, which is awaited.
The next step is to schedule some test events. However, the precise timing for such events is contingent on the prevalence of the virus and the prevailing public health situation. I am optimistic that some test events can be undertaken in the relatively near future over the summer period. While it may play in role in the return of spectators, the widespread use of antigen testing across society and the economy is a matter for Government.
