Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
David Young

Coronavirus Northern Ireland: Sporting bodies issue a joint call for people to stay at home over Easter

The three main sporting bodies in Northern Ireland have issued a joint call for people to stay at home over Easter.

Ulster Rugby, the Irish FA and Ulster GAA urged all members and supporters to stick to the “game plan” and enjoy the holidays at home.

The statement, which incorporates all local clubs across the three sporting bodies, was issued by Ulster Rugby chief executive Jonny Petrie, Irish FA chief executive Patrick Nelson and Ulster GAA’s provincial secretary and chief executive Brian McAvoy.

They said: “It is now apparent the social distancing measures which have been put in place may be helping to slow the spread of coronavirus, which in turn is helping our health service to battle the virus and look after our neighbours, friends and members.

“However, it remains absolutely essential that each one of us continues to play our part and that means staying at home, staying indoors as much as possible and, if you have to leave the house for essential items, observing the strict social distancing measures.

“As sporting bodies, we are acutely aware that our members feel the impact of the restrictions which are in place. We know the weekend is usually packed with sport, be that playing, coaching, spectating or ferrying young children to and from matches and training. We know our members are missing their games, but the more we hold the line now, the sooner we will be back out there playing our beloved sports.

“This match - the people versus coronavirus - is the most difficult opposition we will ever face, and we have to win.

“So please continue to play your part. Enjoy Easter at home, stay indoors and look out for each other.”

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.