Duhallow GAA chairman fears Gaelic games set for lengthy barren spell
DUHALLOW Junior Board Chairman Joe Kearns is convinced no further games within the GAA remit will operate for the remainder of 2020.
Optimistic hopes had surfaced after the release of a five-phase plan to re-open Ireland from next Monday that depended on the spread of Covid-19. The plan gave a possible green light for the GAA to return to action on July 20 but only if limitations were placed on the numbers of spectators and where social distancing could be maintained.
GAA activity has been suspended since early March to comply with government guidelines in relation to the Coronavirus, and it was expected that priority would be given to club activity over inter-county level if activity was to resume. And further restrictions in the roadmap were to be lifted on August 10 (phase 5) when spectators could attend live sporting events only in accordance with both indoor and outdoor numbers restrictions and the application of social distancing.
However, Duhallow Chairman
Joe Kearns raises concerns about the intended plan and its implications.
“To be honest, I can’t see any games being played for the remainder of 2020, it’s unlikely to be safe until a Covid-19 cure is found. With anything from 15 to 30 players and management in a dressing room, there would be no social distancing and, of course, our games are a contact sport,” Kearns ( pictured) said.
“Fair play to GAA President John Horan on giving a clear assessment on The Sunday Game where he delivered a strong indication of no further action in 2020. It was outlined if social distancing remains a priority to deal with during the pandemic, that rules out contact sports such as football and hurling,” said the Kanturk club man.
The GAA has advised too of no official on-field activity resuming before July 20 and for facilities to remain closed until that date. That means the GAA Player Injury Scheme is also halted until an official return to activity is confirmed.
“It’s so important to abide by the guidelines as laid down by the GAA. The task is so difficult for a sporting organisation faced with the inevitable task of determining when to give the go ahead for action to resume as much as players and the public would like to see,” said the Duhallow chairman.
On the positive side, the Divisional Board officer acknowledged the incredible efforts of clubs and their members in community assisted projects and numerous fund raisers.
“Events such as the Duhallow Fittest Club confirmed the well-being of our clubs that highlighted the voluntary efforts of people coming out and supporting worthy causes. This highlights the generous contribution of the grassroots of the GAA,” said Mr Kearns.