COVID-19 Restrictions Update from Tennis Ireland 23.02.2021
Posted: February 24, 2021

 

Dear Club President / Secretary / Member

The Taoiseach, earlier this evening, provided an update to the nation on the situation as it pertains to COVID-19 and the Level 5 restrictions that are currently in place.

While he announced that the phased return of schools will get underway from next Monday, 1st March, the Taoiseach also announced that the Cabinet has agreed to extend the current Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions until the 5th April.

Unfortunately, this means, that even though Tennis is a naturally socially distanced and safe activity, clubs are required to remain closed.

We are aware of the impact that the restrictions are having on the physical and mental health of individual members, young and old, and the financial impact they are having on coaches and clubs. We would have liked restrictions to be lifted without delay but, according to the Taoiseach, there is a need to minimise the opportunities for people to travel and gather in order to suppress the virus and this must be respected.

The Taoiseach did outline that should there be an improvement in the situation, the Government will examine the possibility of easing restrictions on outdoor gatherings and certain sporting activities in advance of the 5th April date.

Tennis Ireland is working closely with a range of non-contact sports such as rowing, cycling, canoeing, sailing, athletics and golf to co-ordinate efforts with Sport Ireland and Government to allow our sport to open as soon as possible.  We are also engaging with Sport NI to get an update on the status of the restrictions in Northern Ireland.

We will continue to work on behalf of our clubs and their members and will keep you informed of any developments.

Regards

Richard Fahey
Chief Executive