Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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245. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the efforts that have been made to examine the possibility of using rapid antigen testing for Covid-19 to allow for the return of some spectators to sports matches, concerts or other spectator events; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22604/21]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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As announced last week, my Department will work with the Department of Health and Department of the Taoiseach to prepare proposals on the holding of a limited number of pilot live events for sport and live entertainment, both indoor and outdoor. This is to inform the safe reopening of these activities and events when the public health situation allows.

We would hope to begin hosting these events in July, depending on the epidemiological situation at the time and subject to the rollout of the vaccination programme. All options for the safe roll out of these events are being considered, including antigen testing. I am cautiously optimistic that once test events can be undertaken and lessons drawn from those that we can grow spectator attendances later in the Summer.

In the meantime my Department will work with sporting and cultural bodies and make practical preparations for these test events. Guidelines and plans for the pilot music and sport events are in development. Further details will be announced in due course.