All GAA club games at all grades to cease with immediate effect
There is shock in GAA circles this lunchtime after Association's management committee announced it was pausing all club activity "with immediate effect and until further notice", as huge uncertainty surrounds the 2020 inter-county championships in light of NPHET's latest recommendations.
The association is closely monitoring developments as the Government debates a recommendation from the advisory committee to move the country to Level 5 of the Resilience and Recovery Living with Covid-19 plan.
Officials this morning met to discuss recent developments and put in place strategies for possible outcomes arising from this afternoon's Cabinet briefing.
The statement from GAA read:
"The GAA’s Management Committee has today 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 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.
"More than ever, we ask that you continue with this approach where training sessions for your players is continuing.
More to follow..