THE GAA is readying itself for a quicker-than-planned return to activity, although its pitches will remain closed until the end of June.
Designated walkways around pitches will reopen on June 8, when the country will enter the second phase of the easing of the Covid-19 restrictions.
It is now widely envisaged that the GAA will look to reopen its pitches in phase three, rather than have the gates shut until the commencement of phase four, planned for July 20.
“The GAA continues to monitor closely the ongoing pandemic and the Government’s roadmap relating to the relaxation of restrictions,” the GAA said in a statement on Friday.
“We do not envisage a return to training in small groups in Phase Two and pitches and playing areas are to remain closed. However, as per the government roadmap, this may be reviewed in Phase Three.”
The GAA has confirmed that it will publish its Return to Safe Activity Document when phase two has begun. This document has been prepared by the GAA’s Covid-19 Advisory Group and will give a clearer picture as to the Association’s plans.
The GAA said: “This document will require approval from the government’s own expert group on Return to Sport, which we continue to work with. This group currently considers Gaelic games a ‘Phase 4’ sport.
“The GAA has stuck rigidly to the government’s plan and dates from the outset of this outbreak and will continue to do so, taking advice from medical experts and our own Advisory Committee.
“We re-affirm our position that no one is keener to return to games and general games-related activity but this will only be considered when it is acceptable to do so to maximise the safety and well-being of our players.”
The statement also noted that progress had been made in relation to the 2020 Cúl Camps: “Subject to the country moving onto the next phase of its recovery, we will provide more details about this initiative.”
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