Government’s easing of Covid-19 restrictions: What does this mean for sport?

Taoiseach Micheál Martin confirmed in his announcement at 6 o’clock this evening that there will be staged dismantlement of restrictions over the coming weeks and months including in the area of sports.

Alanna Cunnane April 29, 2021

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Taoiseach Micheál Martin confirmed in his announcement on the RTE 6 o’clock news this evening that "a series of very important and very welcome freedoms will be restored" in the form of a staged dismantlement of restrictions over the coming weeks and months.

While there have been many plans put in place to restart society from intercounty travel to the shops opening their doors, there has also been plenty of information released in the field of sport.

The 10^th of May will see adult training resume in pods of fifteen, while on June 7^th games will get underway minus crowds, with gyms and pools to reopen too for individual purposes.

Social distance signs amongst empty stands at recent football matches. Photo credit-Bryan Keane:Inpho.

Pending the transmission and vaccination rates on July 5^th, indoor sports, collective workout classes and outdoor mass gatherings (including sporting events such as matches) will be phased in.

The Women’s National League has been underway since March 27^th, but uncertainty still prevails in many sports as to how they will pan out. Full sets of calendars are yet to be released, while indoor activities will remain out in the cold for another month in accordance to case numbers and the success of the current system.

Cork footballer Doireann O'Sullivan says its frustrating that they're still waiting on fixtures and format of their season from LGFA. The GAA released their master fixture list three weeks ago.@VirginMediaNews pic.twitter.com/NmVSYiC2xd

— Sinéad Kissane (@sineadkissane) April 29, 2021

Speaking this morning on his exit from Government Buildings, Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly relinquished that this relaxation of restrictions will certainly bring about “a lot of relief” for many people.

"I am very concerned about people's mental health. I am very concerned about their isolation," he said.

"It's been a tough year, but we will take our good days and I think, for our country, this is a good day."

Taoiseach Micheál Martin announces plan to reopen society in May and June | ? Follow live updates: https://t.co/jU752Hdys5 https://t.co/3KfrwSNX70

— RTÉ News (@rtenews) April 29, 2021

The full briefing can be viewed here.