Inter-county Gaelic games suspended as Level 5 exemption for GAA elite sports withdrawn by Government

Following a meeting on Wednesday between the GAA and Government representatives including the Minister of State for Sport Jack Chambers, the Government clarified that inter-county Gaelic Games activities are no longer covered under the current Level 5 exemptions for elite sports.

This means that there will be no return for intercounty training nor for games under the current restrictions and this position will not change after 5 March when the restrictions will be reviewed by Government. 

The GAA's Covid Advisory group have stated on the back of this meeting that no on field activity will be permitted - training or games - until Easter at the earliest.

It is the view of the GAA's Covid Advisory Group that on-onfield activity will not be permitted until Easter at the earliest after the Government clarified that inter-county Gaelic Games activity is not covered under the current Level 5 exemptions for elite sports. #GAA

— The GAA (@officialgaa) February 10, 2021

The Government are due to publish an updated "Living with Covid" plan and that document will provide clarity on when clubs and counties are likely to be allowed return to training and games in 2021.

The GAA issued an update on their website noting “we know these latest developments will come as a great disappointment to all those who are anxious to resume their Gaelic Games involvement, be it on or off the field.”

Wednesday’s meeting with the GAA is in contrast with last week’s meeting between the Government and FAI when Minister for State Jack Chambers spoke about the return of the League of Ireland (which is due to kick off on Friday 19 March).

“I made clear the Government's support for the return of the League of Ireland,” tweeted Chambers on 4 Feburary. “It’s important for the football community that our national league commences. 

“I also provided assurances that we will provide additional supports in the period ahead. Work is continuing on the safe return of grassroots football when the public health situation allows.”

Positive engagement with @FAIreland today. I made clear the Government's support for the return of the League of Ireland. It’s important for the football community that our national league commences. 1/2

— Jack Chambers TD (@jackfchambers) February 4, 2021