The full set of guidelines for the safe return of spectators to sports events have arrived ahead of a number of high-profile trial events.
The government has today published the full set of guidelines for the safe return of spectators to sport, drafted by a combined working group of sporting event experts and health and safety advisors.
Measures include advance communication with attendees, while venues will operate at reduced capacities.
Physical distancing, mask-wearing, and hand hygiene will be required by all.
Attendees will be required to abide by a code of conduct and all venues will have a Covid-19 Safety Plan in place.
All 16 pilot events will help to bring about progress in allowing additional events and increasing capacity in July and August.
Pilot events include GAA, Camogie, and LGFA matches, League of Ireland games, rugby games, and other sports like Golf and Athletics.
Speaking about the release of these guidelines, Minister Jack Chambers said; “I am acutely aware how eager fans are to see their home county, local club or sporting heroes in action once again.
"These expert-led guidelines are significant because they chart a clear path back to allowing large numbers of spectators to attend games once again.
"They cover a huge range of areas from ticketing and arrival at the grounds, to public transport and communications with fans, stadium signage, contact tracing, and a host of other important factors.
"The guidelines can be continuously reviewed after each pilot event and will ultimately pave the way for much greater numbers to attend sporting events as we progress into summer and autumn."
Screen testing for the virus is not going to be a mandatory requirement.
There will be contact tracing with each ticket which will be held for 28 days, to enable us to help the HSE if there is a case linked to the event.
All spectators will need a ticket that will record their name in case contact tracing is needed after the event.
Data protections are built into that process.
All staff and stewards will be educated on best practices at the pilot events.
Fans will have to wear masks for the duration and will be seated and socially distanced from other fans.
No food and beverages will be available and entry times will be staggered.
It's understood that the hope is for an increase in the number allowed to attend events in July and August as vaccinations continue.
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