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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Sport
Gareth Fullerton

Northern Ireland coronavirus restrictions: NI Sports Forum voices concerns over impact of lockdown extension

The NI Sports Forum has requested a meeting with Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey to address 'ongoing concerns' over the suspension of non-elite sport in Northern Ireland.

Many sports remain in lockdown with restrictions now set to continue until at least March 5.

Under the current rules all indoor and outdoor sport is not permitted, other than at elite level.

The NI Sports Forum said it "recognises the significant challenges facing the health service due to Covid-19", and appreciates the tough decisions facing local government officials.

But it also says it recognises the impact no sport is having on the "health and wellbeing of society".

In a statement, the Forum said: "The NI Sports Forum recognises the significant challenges facing the health service due to the Covid-19 pandemic and understands the difficult decision taken by the NI Executive to extend current restrictions in an effort to overcome the virus.

"As we continue to engage with our members it is clear that there is an ongoing concern around the impact the lack of participation in sport and physical activity is having on the health and wellbeing of society.

"As a sector, sport has been highly regulated during the pandemic, adhering to a wide range of protocols surrounding taking part in physical activity.

"As a result significant challenges remain with regards to the continued absence of sport and physical activity, particularly given the safe environment we have operated in up until now."

The Forum has also urged the NI Executive to review the current regulations governing sport here under Covid guidelines.

"As part of their review process, we would urge the NI Executive to look at those sports that can operate safely within the restrictions," the statement added.

"On behalf of our members we will also seek a meeting with Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey MLA to highlight ongoing concerns and discuss further recovery plans for the sports sector.

"We would also like to thank all our members and their clubs for their continued support to their local communities during this challenging period for the sector."

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