GAA pitches and playing areas to remain closed until at least June 29th

Gaelic football and hurling players won't be able to resume small group training until at least the 29th of June with GAA pitches remaining closed.

The GAA have confirmed that pitches and playing areas will remain closed until the country enters phase three of the relaxation of restrictions.

"The Association notes that we remain in Phase One and await an update about the possible move to Phase Two on June 8, as outlined by the authorities," the GAA announced in a statement this evening.

Should the country move to Phase Two as planned, GAA Clubs will be able to re-open designated walking tracks on June 8, subject to engagement with Croke Park around a facilities management plan.

We do not envisage a return to training in small groups in Phase Two and pitches and playing areas are to remain closed. However, as per the government roadmap, this may be reviewed in Phase Three."

Walking areas around pitches can re-open on June the 8th and the association plan to publish a Return to Safe Activity Document next month.

"This document will require approval from the government’s own expert group on Return to Sport, which we continue to work with. This group currently considers Gaelic games a ‘Phase 4’ sport," they added.

"Progress has also been made in re-configuring the 2020 GAA Kelloggs’ Cúl Camps and subject to the country moving onto the next phase of its recovery, we will provide more details about this initiative.

"The GAA has stuck rigidly to the government’s plan and dates from the outset of this outbreak and will continue to do so, taking advice from medical experts and our own Advisory Committee.

"We re-affirm our position that no one is keener to return to games and general games-related activity but this will only be considered when it is acceptable to do so to maximise the safety and well-being of our players, members and wider society."