David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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205. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she will address a matter raised in correspondence in relation to children’s choirs (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44310/21]

Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party)
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On 31 August, the Government published a plan - COVID-19: Reframing the Challenge, Continuing Our Recovery and Reconnecting.  The Government has agreed that during the period between 1 September and 22 October, we will continue our careful and gradual approach to reopening, while supporting maximum reach of the vaccine programme and allowing time to achieve the full benefits for all those currently being vaccinated.  The Plan emphasises the importance of personal responsibility in minimising opportunities for virus transmission as we move into the final stages of the reopening of our society and economy.

In terms of arts and culture activities, one to one music, dance and art classes may operate at the moment.

Additionally, at its meeting on 31 August, Government agreed on the return to outdoor and indoor events at the following capacity levels and with maximum available social distancing between groups:

- Indoors – for vaccinated/recovered people and accompanying minors- 60% capacity 

- Outdoors - for vaccinated/recovered people and accompanying minors- 75% capacity 

- Outdoors - for mixed groups of vaccinated/recovered and unvaccinated people – 50% capacity.  

The announcement of dates for the lifting of restrictions is a response to a clear call from the sector. In the interim, we will see increased opportunities for live performance both indoors and outdoors from 6 September.  

Indoor group activities include sports, arts, culture, dance classes and the activity referred to by the Deputy in details supplied. All indoor group activities should ensure that there are appropriate infection prevention and control measures in place to minimise the risk of virus transmission.The Arts Council has prepared guidance on the reopening of arts, culture and dance activities for children and young people which is available on their website [www.artscouncil.ie/covid-19/government-guidelines/], which is currently being updated.

As signalled by Government in its reopening plan, there will be a full return to these activities after 22 October 2021 as the vaccination programme progresses and subject to the levels of infections and hospitalisations at that time.