Ulster GAA Statement on Return of Outdoor Competitive Games

Following today’s Executive meeting, I am pleased to announce that outdoor competitive games in the ‘Six Counties’ will now be able to take place from Saturday 11 July. This means that clubs will, from Saturday, be able to play challenge games in the north, ahead of the GAA’s resumption of competitive club fixtures on Friday 17th July.

However, counties and clubs should be aware that spectators are not yet permitted to attend games in the north – those attending games is limited to essential personnel only (e.g. players, team management personnel, medics, Covid supervisors, match officials, working media (where appropriate) and club officials who have a specific function at the game).

There is an onus on clubs and counties to enforce the no spectators regulation rigidly. Hopefully within a very short space of time there will be provision for some spectators to attend games but until such times games can take place with only essential personnel being present.

Ulster GAA appeals to clubs and counties to ensure that these conditions are met – we must all remember that if there is a breach(es) we are not only increasing the risk of Coronavirus spread but are also increasing the risk of restrictions being re-imposed. As the Communities Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín said this evening;

“It is more important than ever to emphasise that everyone has a personal responsibility to follow the guidance and to protect those around them. I trust that sports people, clubs and governing bodies are compliant with the guidance that is out there. We all want to enjoy taking part in sport once again and look forward to attending sporting events when it is safe to do so.”

Brian McAvoy
Provincial Secretary & CEO

Brian Mac Fhíobhuí
Rúnaí