Industry Update

In Late April, the Government decided to move ahead with the Recovery and Resilience: The Path Ahead Plan. The decision is based on advice from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) that a cautious and gradual phased reopening over May and June, with an emphasis on outdoor activity and a moderate increase in social contact, as this is considered low to medium risk by the Government.

On behalf of REPs Ireland members, clarification was sought on the Government’s Path Ahead Plan from the Department of Sport, please see details below:

From 10th May

Outdoor training for adults in pods of a maximum of 15 people 

We are advised that “outdoor fitness training” in pods of 15 is permitted from 10th May, and multiple pods of 15 can be put in place for an outdoor activity once there is sufficient space and there is no mixing of pod members, including coaches.

 

From 2nd June 

Accommodation services, including hotels, B&Bs, self-catering, and hostels, can reopen. Services including leisure facilities, indoor restaurant and bar services must be restricted to overnight guests/residents only. Hotel based gyms and pools can open on 2nd June for guests and residents only.

 

From 7th June 

Gyms, swimming pools, leisure centres can reopen for individual training only. We are currently discussing with the Dept of Sport concerning a timeline for the recommencement of children’s swimming lessons. We have highlighted to the Government that there is a marked difference between children’s swimming lessons and exercise classes.

 

Reopening of personal services by appointment 

7th June is the return date for gyms, pools and leisure facilities. It is not envisioned that personal training studios (one to one PT) open earlier than this date.

 

Indoor team/group sports, including matches, training and exercise classes, are perceived as a “higher-risk” activity, and the government have stated they will consider a timeline for their recommencement at the end of June.

 

An updated Framework for the safe operation of leisure, health and fitness facilities will be circulated to REPs Ireland members in advance of reopening.

 

For more information please visit the Government Information  website