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The GUI and ILGU have confirmed that all golf clubs in the Republic of Ireland will close for the duration of the Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions that are scheduled to be in effect for six weeks.
The understanding among official circles is that the new restrictions, which will take effect from midnight on Wednesday, will shut down all sports, except declared elite and professional sports. Professional level rugby, soccer and horse racing will continue, while the GAA championships have also received permission to advance to higher levels.
The GUI and ILGU had said on Tuesday they were discussing the matter with Sport Ireland and a statement Wednesday afternoon confirmed the news.
“After intense engagement over the past 48 hours, Sport Ireland informed us this afternoon that golf clubs are unfortunately required to close under the new level 5 restrictions,” the statement read.
“Essential field maintenance is allowed to continue below level 5. We have sought clarity on the use of the question as to whether practice fields / facilities can remain open for exempt activities. We will update the clubs on this as soon as possible. “
Elite athletes in bona fide card and high performance Olympic and Paralympic programs may also continue. With the Tokyo Olympics scheduled for next summer, athletes who have qualified or are facing a qualification process can continue training under controlled conditions. Minors can also continue training by following the Covid-19 health and safety guidelines.
While other sports such as tennis, sailing or hockey have not yet been confirmed, the intention is for outdoor sports to be blocked. Indoor sports had already been closed on Level 3.
The general intention of Level 5 is to keep people home, although it was noted that the situation is currently a “moving target” and that the wedding and funeral numbers were changed after discussions.
More to follow …
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