Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein)
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1279. To ask the Minister for Health when indoor classes (details supplied) are allowed to recommence. [42321/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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As outlined in COVID-19: Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting, which was published by Government on 31 August, organised indoor group activities can take place from 20 September with capacity limits of 100 people (with appropriate protective measures) where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within previous 6 months), or accompanied minors (under 18). Where patrons have mixed immunity status, pods of up to 6 participants will be permitted with multiple pods permitted subject to protective measures.

Since the onset of the pandemic, we have saved lives and limited the impact of the disease on society in Ireland due to the huge effort of people across the country. Thanks to the hard work of the Irish people and the progress of our vaccination programme, we are now entering a new phase in the management of the pandemic. As our approach to the management of COVID-19 transitions from population wide restrictions to guidance we must continue to practice basic preventative behaviours, including in relation to self-isolation and restricting movements when advised, observing good respiratory and hand hygiene, physical distancing and mask wearing when appropriate.

COVID-19: Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting can be found online: www.gov.ie/en/press-release/f5291-post-cabinet-statement-covid-19-reframing-the-challenge-continuing-our-recovery-and-reconnecting/