A SOCIAL enterprise that runs leisure centres across Belfast says the return of outdoor sport is "in vain" without dates for full leisure re-opening.
GLL has called on the Executive to urgently provide dates for the re-opening of indoor leisure services.
On Monday, Northern Ireland’s Covid-19 lockdown restrictions were relaxed to allow up to 15 participants in outdoor sport. Gyms have opened again in England with plans to reopen in Scotland later this month and Wales in May.
But GLL, which operates 15 leisure centres in Belfast, says the people of Northern Ireland are being left behind and is urging the Executive to publish indicative dates and clear guidance for the resumption of indoor training.
It says that while outdoor sport and fitness classes are a step in the right direction, without the re-opening of gyms and swimming pools, many people "remain inactive and at a heightened risk of other physical and mental health conditions".
Gareth Kirk, regional director at GLL, said it is "unacceptable that citizens are without any indication of further easements after over a year of heavy restrictions on their ability to exercise".
"People are on the brink and in desperate need of their usual coping mechanisms," he said.
"Be it a weight session, treadmill run or swim with the family, they deserve the chance to blow off steam and look after their health.
"As those in England, Scotland and Wales prepare to do just that, staff and customers here in Northern Ireland are being let down.”
"By operating at reduced capacity, enforcing a one-way system and enhancing cleaning regimes, we operate safely within Covid-19 protocols.
"While we are geared up to roll-out our services as soon as restrictions allow, there are fears it will be too little too late for some in our society.
"It is vital that leisure providers are given the green light to return to helping people maintain a consistent level of physical activity to guard against future health risks."
