Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 June 2021
284. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Health if drive-in movies are permitted under the current Covid-19 guidelines; if not, when they will be permitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28201/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra317. Deputy Richard O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Health his views on the resumption on drive-in bingo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28262/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra325. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Health the public health grounds on which drive-in cinemas are not being allowed to operate; if this will be reconsidered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28271/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 284, 317 and 325 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 Deputy that, in line with the Resilience and Recovery Plan for the easing of measures, drive-in cinemas and drive-in bingo resumed 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.
