MICROSCOPIC LEINS

Submitted for return of supporters

LEINSTER have submitted ambitious Irfu-backed plans to the Government to trial a return of supporters to games next month.

Other sporting organisations will watch developments with interest after the plans were sent to the Department of Sport last Friday.

“This initiative has the potential to be used as a blueprint by all sporting, cultural and community organisations for the safe return of limited crowds to their events,” claimed Leinster CEO Mick Dawson.

The PRO14 champions hope to use a ‘proof of concept’ trial match in May to show that rapid antigen testing is the answer to the safe return of spectators.

Reacting to the Government’s Rapid Testing Group’s recommendation to immediately implement antigen trial events, the Blues want to show that 2,000 spectators – 11 per cent of normal capacity – can safely be accommodated remaining socially distant.

Spectators who have received a negative result will be segregated into four separate RDS Arena zones of 500 people.

Dawson describes the project as “a key contribution” to efforts to restore the country to some form of normality.

He said: “Leinster Rugby has been working with key stakeholders for a number of months to finalise plans for a phased re-opening of the RDS Arena.

“We are confident that we have the infrastructure in place to ensure a safe and efficient trial.

“Our willingness that any data and lessons from such a trial be shared with relevant authorities and with other National Governing Bodies.”

Since rugby’s return from lockdown last August, Leinster have played 11 games behind closed doors at the RDS, with no incidences of Covid-19 reported

while as a result.

“What we are offering the Government is a pilot test event that meets all the recommendations of the Rapid Testing Groups’ Report,” said Dawson.

“This is an opportunity to show that matches with supporters are possible, under strict testing, supervision and management, and that there is a roadmap ahead that rugby and all sports and events can follow.

“The lessons that we could all take from hosting such a trial match would be invaluable as the wider sports and entertainment industry looks to recover and looks forward to a better and a brighter future.

“At some stage we have to take those first steps, and we believe that we have a robust and safe plan in place that will allow us to do just that, and plan for the safe return of all supporters from the beginning of next season.”