THE OFFICIAL REACTION FROM GAA, DUBLIN AND GARDAI

“It is with frustration and extreme disappointment that the GAA acknowledges reports today of a potential breach of both our own Covid guidelines and those of the Government relating to the restrictions in place around team training. “Less than 48 hours ago, the association reiterated its commitment to these current guidelines and called for continued compliance in the weeks ahead. “The GAA will pursue the allegations with the units in question at the earliest opportunity and will invoke any necessary disciplinary processes as appropriate. “In the meantime, while we acknowledge that the overwhelming majority of Counties and Clubs have complied in an appropriate and responsible way with the restrictions currently in place, we once again call on our members and units to uphold the integrity of the association as part of our ongoing efforts to play our role in thwarting the virus and ensuring a return to activity when it is safe to do so.” “Dublin GAA acknowledge that, following an investigation this afternoon, there was a breach of Covid-19 guidelines yesterday morning. “The County Management Committee have suspended Dublin Senior Football manager Dessie Farrell for 12 weeks with immediate effect. “The Dublin senior football management and players recognise that this was a serious error of judgement and apologise unreservedly for their actions.” “An Garda Síochána is making enquiries into reports of alleged breaches of Covid Regulations,” Garda Headquarters, said in reply to queries. “The Health Act 1947 (Section 31A-temporary Restrictions) (Covid-19) (No.10) Regulations 2020, as amended, are currently in force. “Regulation 11 places restriction on training events. Regulation 11 is not declared to be a penal regulation. “If Gardaí identify potential breaches of the public health regulations (travel restrictions) a Fixed Payment Notice may be issued where appropriate. An Garda Síochána has no further comment at this time.”