Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 June 2021
217. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Health if individual dance training classes can take place from 7 June 2021 in line with the reopening of gyms, swimming pools and leisure centres which are opening for individual training from that date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27720/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra243. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Health his rationale for excluding solo dancing from the list of individual training activities allowed as it is a non-contact, physically distanced sport with no shared equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27774/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 217 and 243 together.
There has been considerable progress in reducing infection levels since the peak of the wave of infection in late 2020/early 2021 because of the widespread adherence by the public to the public health measures in place, and this progress has been sustained during recent phases of reopening in April and May. While there is still a high level of infection nationally, the situation is considered reasonably stable and significant progress is being made in relation to the roll-out of our vaccination programme.
On 28 May, Government decided to move ahead with the process of lifting restrictions further. A range of measures were eased in June, and it has signalled a further easing of measures in July and August subject to the epidemiological situation at the time.
I can confirm to the Deputies that solo dancing and individual dance instruction are included as activities under individual training and restarted on the 7 June.
While there has been scope to continue with the easing of public health measures, our approach must continue to be cautious, gradual and on a phased basis, with sufficient time between any easing of measures to assess the impact. This will be critical to ensure that our progress in controlling the virus is maintained.
Significant progress has been made on suppressing the virus over recent months due to the huge effort of people across the country. By working together, we have saved lives and limited the impact of the disease on society in Ireland. To protect the gains of recent months we must continue to practice basic preventative behaviours and to follow public health guidelines.
