Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

418. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the degree to which she expects the reopening of the sporting sector in the event of controlling Covid-19, having particular regard to the need for a special effort in the circumstances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22334/21]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The issue of the further reopening of the sports sector will be a matter for decision by the Government. 

The Government has published the COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery Plan 2021 – The Path Ahead and has in that context agreed that the public health restrictions will be subject to ongoing review taking account of the evolving epidemiological situation and available evidence in relation to vaccine deployment, uptake and effectiveness.

Any easing of measures should be slow and gradual with sufficient time between phases to assess impact and to respond if the epidemiological situation was to deteriorate. It will take account of emerging international and national evidence and experience and with a specific focus on supporting mental health and wellbeing. 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.