Northern Ireland

Ulster GAA confirmed the return of up to 500 spectators to games

Ulster GAA are keen to avoid scene like this one, reminding fans to stay off the pitch
Ulster GAA are keen to avoid scene like this one, reminding fans to stay off the pitch Ulster GAA are keen to avoid scene like this one, reminding fans to stay off the pitch

ULSTER GAA says it collaborated with the association "nationally" before allowing fans back to matches from Monday following the easing of restrictions by the Stormont Executive.

Last week the body said it would "take its lead" from the Croke Park Covid Committee and it was considered unlikely the all-Ireland organisation would allow different rules for spectators on either side of the border.

That would have left it as the only main sport behind closed doors after May 24.

However, yesterday Ulster GAA confirmed the return of up to 500 spectators to "games in the `Six Counties' from Monday.

Ulster GAA also said it would issue guidance to counties early nex week in relation to the attendance of spectators at Allianz League games in the ‘Six Counties’ which are taking place after May 24.

In a statement last night it said along with "the anticipated return of competitive games in early June in Cavan, Donegal and Monaghan, the return of spectators and visitors to our grounds is another step in the journey back to normalisation".

But "the onus" is on local "units to stage games safely and in accordance with the Executive guidelines".

Last year Ulster GAA found itself at the centre of controversies over the actions of crowds at club finals.

It says the return must have "the highest standards of compliance and minimise risk during the ongoing pandemic".

Fans have been warned not to storm the pitch and "keep their own record of contacts at a match for potential tracing purposes", downloading the government tracing apps.

Ulster GAA stressed "the onus" is on clubs and host counties "to stage games safely and in accordance with the Executive and GAA guidelines".

There will be "appropriate Covid-19 signage... at all venues", with fans warned to stay away if they have any symptoms.

They have been encouraged to bring their own hand sanitiser.

Dressing rooms are remaining closed for all fixtures and training sessions, but club gyms and sports halls can reopen, with social distancing and contact tracing enforced,

Social clubs can also open from Monday, under the same restrictions as the rest of the hospitality sector.

Drive-in cinemas and indoor and outdoor bingo are allowed from Monday.