The GAA is to suspend all club games “at all levels with immediate effect”, it was announced today.
The ruling will apply across the whole of Ireland, the Association said, citing “post-match celebrations and a lack of social distancing at certain events” as the reasoning behind the move.
Crowds at some matches and post-game celebrations have drawn criticism over recent days.
In their statement the GAA’s ‘Management Committee’ said they had “endorsed a decision to suspend all GAA Club games at all levels with immediate effect and until further notice.
“The decision has been taken in the interest of public safety following a number of incidents that have been brought to our attention in recent days. In particular, post-match celebrations and a lack of social distancing at certain events have proved disappointing and problematic.
“This directive applies to all ages and all grades across the island. Club Social Centres/bars are also to close.
“Training will continue to be permitted as per the guidelines outlined for the relevant levels in the Government’s National Framework for Living with Covid 19 and relevant guidelines in the Six Counties.
“The GAA will continue to monitor the situation in the coming days and weeks, regarding changes in government guidelines, before liaising with our units accordingly.”
The statement added that the Association would “also like to acknowledge all of those units who have worked diligently in complying with the public health advice around the staging of our games and training sessions since activity resumed”.
It added: “More than ever, we ask that you continue with this approach where training sessions for your players is continuing.”
The move comes amid rising numbers of Covid-19 infections on both sides of the border. Videos have appeared on social media showing behaviour after some GAA matches in which there appears to be little adherence to social Coronavirus guidelines.
In Northern Ireland the suggestion that ‘circuit breakers’ could be introduced appears to be gathering pace, while in the Republic the advisory agency NPHET has recommended the country moves to Level 5 restrictions which are just short of a full lockdown.
