To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether plans detailing the road map for relaxation for COVID-19 restrictions will cite regulations for specific sports such as golf.

The Executive published Moving Forward: The Executive’s Pathway out of Restrictions on Tuesday 2 March 2021, available here:

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-pathway-out-restrictions

Under the Pathway, golf falls under the Sports and Leisure Activities Pathway. Since 12 April, up to 15 people have been permitted to participate in outside activities such as playing golf.

Up to 15 people (including coaches) can take part in structured outdoor sports events, organised through clubs or individuals affiliated to recognised sports governing bodies or representative organisations for sport and physical activity.

An indicative date of 24 May has been set for the return of indoor group exercise and training (numbers informed by venue) and the full return of outdoor sport (with an overall limit of 500 spectators at outdoor sporting events). The indicative date of 24 May is subject to review on 20 May.

We will continuously monitor the impact of the decisions we make and only move to the next step when it is appropriate to do so. For now, club houses and indoor sports facilities (changing rooms, showers, kitchens, meeting rooms), apart from essential toilet facilities must remain closed.

Information on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you