Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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3017. To ask the Minister for Health if, once restrictions are lifted in July 2021, sporting events organised by non-NGB recognised organisations can go ahead, for example, rally sprints, baton twirling, running and cycling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39998/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, on 29 June, Government announced the next phase of reopening the economy and society in line with Recovery and Resilience: The Path Ahead.

While significant progress is being made in relation to the roll-out of our vaccination programme and the position had been broadly stable over the earlier part of June, the prevalence of the more transmissible Delta variant is rapidly increasing in Ireland and this poses a significant risk, in particular to those who are not yet fully vaccinated. For this reason, a number of higher risk indoor activities will not recommence as planned on 5 July, pending the implementation of a system to verify vaccination or immunity status.

With regard to organised outdoor events, a maximum of 200 attendees can attend the majority of venues. A limit of 500 people is in place for venues with capacity greater than 5,000 with appropriate protective measures in place - including social distancing requirements. At present outdoor training in pods of a maximum of 15 people is permitted and outdoor sports matches are permitted, with attendance in line with the regulations for organised outdoor events.

Gyms, swimming pools, leisure centres are permitted to open for individual training only and swim lessons and classes can take place. Other indoor sporting activities including matches, group/team training and exercise/dance classes are not permitted.

Significant and sustained 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.