Competitive sport can resume in Northern Ireland from Friday | No spectators allowed

Competitive sport has received the go-ahead to return on from Friday, the Stormonst Executive has confirmed.
The Irish Cup semi-finals and final are set to take place in July.The Irish Cup semi-finals and final are set to take place in July.
The Irish Cup semi-finals and final are set to take place in July.

All indoor sports facilities, with the exception of swiming pools, will be also be permitted to open from July 17.

However, as expected, spectators will not be allowed to attend sporting events to protect against the transmission of Covid-19.

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A number of high-profile events are scheduled to take place in July, including the Irish Cup semi-finals and final, the return of horse racing and the resumption of Gaelic sports.

Communities Minister Carál Ní Chuilín: “The Executive has endorsed a return to competition, albeit without spectators, and has agreed that indoor sports facilities can reopen on 17 July.

“These decisions are based on the latest scientific and health advice and it is more important than ever to emphasise that everyone has a personal responsibility to follow the guidance and to protect those around them.

“I trust that sports people, clubs and governing bodies are compliant with the guidance that is out there.”

Addressing the potential return of spectators, the minister said she hoped further news would be announced in “due course”.

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