Football

Coronavirus: GAA suspends all activity

The GAA has confirmed a suspension of all activity as part of the effort to combat the spread of coronavirus
The GAA has confirmed a suspension of all activity as part of the effort to combat the spread of coronavirus The GAA has confirmed a suspension of all activity as part of the effort to combat the spread of coronavirus

The GAA has announced a suspension of matches, practices and social events in an effort to help curb the spread of coronavirus.

In a statement released this afternoon, the association said: "In light of this morning’s government announcement, the GAA, An Cumann Camógaíochta and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association have decided to suspend all activity at club, county and educational levels until March 29 (inclusive) from midnight.

"This is to include all games, training and team gatherings at all ages and all grades.

"We will continue to liaise with government officials and review the situation between now and the end of the month, assessing the impact of these measures on our competitions.

"In the meantime, the association is encouraging all members to continue to follow the guidelines which have been provided by the health authorities."

Antrim GAA had this afternoon already suspended activities while the Dublin County Board also cancelled all club games and training sessions until after March 29.

The Antrim board said: "We owe it to our players, coaches, volunteers, families and wider community to take care of one another as best we can. That especially relates to those in our communities who are most at risk from infection by Covid 19."

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Stormont ministers are meeting in Belfast later to discuss the coronavirus crisis.

First Minister Arlene Foster, Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill, Health Minister Robin Swann and Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride are all anticipated to be involved in the discussions.

It comes after the ministers dialled into a Cobra meeting in London today.

The management team at Down Royal Racecourse has announced its St Patrick’s Day race meeting will go ahead behind closed doors. 

Emma Meehan, Chief Executive of Down Royal Racecourse said: “We apologise for any inconvenience caused; however the health and safety of racegoers is our priority. Only runners, riders and trainers will be in attendance, with turnstiles closed to racegoers.

"Ticketholders will automatically receive a full refund within 14 working days.”

The news comes after Leo Varadkar announced this morning that schools, colleges and public facilities are to close across the Republic for two weeks.

Mr Varadkar said: "People should seek to reduce social interactions as much as possible."

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