Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 October 2021
240. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if the recent relaxation of Covid-19 regulations now enables gyms and leisure centres to allow their members to avail of their changing rooms and shower facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47815/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the Government approved plan "COVID-19: Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting", a significant easing of the restrictions applicable to sport and organised activity occurred from the 20th of September. From this date, shower facilities & changing rooms can reopen with protective measures in place to mitigate risk in these settings. In this context, however, it is emphasised that the public health management of COVID-19 in Ireland is transitioning, in broad terms, from a focus on regulation and population wide restrictions to a focus on public health advice, personal judgement and personal protective behaviours.
Sport Ireland has issued guidance to the sports sector that outlines a range of important considerations and factors that should guide the usage of shower facilities and changing rooms. This guidance can be found at the link below:
www.sportireland.ie/sites/default/files/media/document/2021-09/return-to-sport-guidance-september-2021-final.pdf
