The NI Sports Forum recognises the significant challenges facing the health service due to the COVID-19 pandemic and understands the difficult decision taken by the NI Executive to extend current restrictions in an effort to overcome the virus.
As we continue to engage with our members it is clear that there is an ongoing concern around the impact the lack of participation in sport and physical activity is having on the health and wellbeing of society.
As a sector, sport has been highly regulated during the pandemic, adhering to a wide range of protocols surrounding taking part in physical activity. As a result significant challenges remain with regards to the continued absence of sport and physical activity, particularly given the safe environment we have operated in up until now.
As part of their review process, we would urge the NI Executive to look at those sports that can operate safely within the restrictions. On behalf of our members we will also seek a meeting with Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey MLA to highlight ongoing concerns and discuss further recovery plans for the sports sector.
We would also like to thank all our members and their clubs for their continued support to their local communities during this challenging period for the sector.