Outdoor equestrian activities have been agreed by Government to fall under Phase One of the roadmap to reopen society and will be allowed from next Monday, May 18th, pending final approval of the phase in the coming days.
“I am delighted to say that following proactive engagement between Horse Sport Ireland and Sport Ireland, that Equestrian Sport has been deemed an outdoor sporting activity and as a result is permitted to reopen in Phase One, due to commence on May 18,” said Horse Sport Ireland CEO Ronan Murphy.
“This is subject to ensuring that the guidance protocols are in place and strictly adhered to by all stakeholders. It is very positive that equestrian activity, is deemed a non-contact, outdoor activity and therefore eligible to resume in Phase 1 in strict adherence with the Government guidelines.”
The “Equestrian Sport Ready” submission, provided to Government in April, includes guidance protocols, aimed at ensuring that considered protocols and procedures can be put in place to allow an incremental resumption of equestrian activity.
This submission was the basis on which the Horse Sport Ireland sought the inclusion by the Government of the resumption of Equestrian Sport in Phase One of its Roadmap.
It joins Golf and Tennis among the sports that were closed but will now reopen from Monday.
“We are encouraging everyone to take a conservative view of the Phase One return to ensure public safety. We are also communicating clearly that the sector must adhere to public health advice including social distancing and travel limits.”
“The onus is on all of those involved, from participants and providers, to do everything they can to reduce risk, they must act responsibly and in line with the guidelines to protect our restart in the interest of all our stakeholders.”
“The attention of all those in the industry must now focus on preparedness and risks assessments to ensure adherence to protocols while ensuring their insurers are satisfied with the draft protocols and risk assessments undertaken.”
“We want all stakeholders to be true ambassadors for their sport and strictly adhere to the Phase One ease of restrictions. Equestrian Sport is in the very privileged position to be allowed to resume at this early stage and this return has been based on the sport being able to demonstrate to the government that it can take place in a safe, socially distant manner.”
“The onus is on everyone throughout the Sport Horse Sector and it is in everyone’s interest that it is well observed and successful.”
“Our industry must continue to do everything we can to reduce risk and the public health advice is a guide to achieving that aim.”
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