Longford-Westmeath Fine Gael Minister of State, Deputy Peter Burke, this week confirmed that rules governing indoor dance classes and boxing have been formally amended, subject to strict physical distancing guidelines.
On foot of a recent meeting with Sandra Julian Mellet of Moate Performance and Visual Arts School, the Minister of State confirmed that indoor dance classes could proceed during the present Covid-19 restrictions.
“This week, I met with Sandra Julian Mellet of Moate Performance and Visual Arts School in Moate, who was part of a larger group who took their issue to the Dáil. Level 3 continues to provide problems for many trying to earn a living and operate through the pandemic, as well as young people who are seeking avenues and outlets during a very difficult time.
“I raised the issue with An Tánaiste and Government colleagues, and I am glad to report that indoor dance classes and other theatrical pursuits can continue, as long as strict guidelines are observed. In line with only ‘individual training’ being allowed during Level 3, teachers and instructors must enforce two metre distancing as well as staggered arrival, a booking in system and restricted use of changing rooms.
“Ultimately, classes must be run as multiple individual classes being run simultaneously. I know this poses challenges for our teachers and students, but I know they are ready to rise to this challenge if it means that classes can go ahead.
“In particular, many such classes are taught in big halls with a large capacity and high ceilings so if operated appropriately, there would be very limited risk, such as Sandra’s Dance Zone and other classes in Moate,” Deputy Burke remarked.
Deputy Burke has further welcomed the imminent return to training of high end boxers at a local level striving to achieve nationally and internationally within their chosen sport.
“Similarly, Cllr Andrew Duncan was in touch with me and pointed out the unfairness at play within boxing. At present, elite boxers are allowed train in the High-Performance Unit in Dublin, yet elite boxers competing at the same high levels training locally are not, which presents a very unfair situation.
“Our local boxers, many of whom have earned multiple national medals, must train to compete to gain acceptance into this unit or to box internationally. Boxing provides a positive outlet for many young people in Westmeath, especially where there are limited alternatives in rural and disadvantaged localities. We have talented young boxers competing at the top of the sport who must be allowed train.
“I was happy to talk to John Treacy on Wednesday of this week who agreed that this was an unfair practice and he had examined the issue. Boxers can now train individually and work on non-contact technical skills, which was the activity being sought by the clubs. Hopefully with a move to Level 2 in the future, further training can be permitted in a safe manner.
“I know exceptions cannot be made for all sections of society and Level 3, even with the re-opening of hospitality and household visits, is still a very tough time for many. I note especially those with disabilities whose services have not resumed. I continue to liaise with the HSE for a blueprint to be provided for the re-opening of services as this is urgently needed by both service users and their family and parents,” Deputy Burke concluded.
