The Golf Union of Ireland and the Irish Ladies Golf Union have announced safety protocols ahead of golf courses across the country being able to re-open from May the 18th.
The green light is dependent, however, on the government confirming next week that the first phase of their relaxation of restrictions are going ahead as planned. Play will initially only be for golfers living within 5km of the course before being extended to 20km from the 8th of June.
A maximum of three players per group would be permitted to play with 14 minute intervals between tee times to enable social distancing while courses will be restricted to sixty players at any one time.
Tee times would need to be pre-booked and each club would have to ensure that strict social distancing protocols are being observed.
"Golf is in the very privileged position to be allowed to resume at this stage and this return has been based on the sport being able to demonstrate to government that it can take place in a safe, socially distant manner," the GUI and ILGU announced in a joint statement.
"All clubs, golfers and staff have a shared responsibility to ensure the Protocol is adhered to. We ask that clubs pledge their commitment to implementing the protocol by signing up using the link sent by email to the club.
We are aware that there are several other unofficial guidelines in circulation. These documents have not been reviewed by the relevant government departments and state agencies. Therefore, golf clubs and golfers must exclusively adhere to the Protocol as published by the GUI and ILGU.
"The ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency remains our primary concern and overriding priority. The Unions acknowledge the tremendous efforts of all frontline workers which has allowed golf and society in general to consider this gradual return to normal life."
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