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FAI seeking clarity on governm...

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FAI seeking clarity on government's latest mass gatherings ruling


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The FAI are seeking talks with the government regarding the continuation of their ban on mass gatherings until August 31. 

The latest ruling dictates that "events requiring licences in excess of 5,000 will not be considered for the period up to the end of August".

If that ruling extends to sport it could open the door for a return to a semblance of normality for SSE Airtricity League clubs.

The league is currently suspended until June 19 at the earliest.

Interim FAI CEO  Gary Owens told FAI TV, "This is breaking news this evening and in two respects for us. The obvious question is, can we hold the international matches in the autumn period?

"We really need to be able to hold those matches and have mass gatherings in September. Hopefully we can get to the end of August and that 5,000 limit will be increased.

"On the other hand, it gives us an opportunity with the League of Ireland clubs. That is a significant input now into the debate we will be having tomorrow with the National League Executive Committee because 5,000 could now be a level on which we could now resume the League of Ireland.

"That is a significant input and we need to take that into account, along with all the other factors which we are now analysing in advance of making a decision on the 5th of May when the Government will make their formal decision known."

Regarding a return to play across the country, Owens added, "We will wait until we hear what the HSE and the Government have to say on May 5th.

"We are working through the National League Executive Committee and we are considering all the options.

"We have a number of scenarios which include putting it back, includes working behind closed doors, it includes looking at restricted stadiums so I think until we hear what the government have to say and what their advice is, we really can’t make a decision.

"I think the most important thing for us at the moment is to analyse all the options, look at all the scenarios and be ready to make a decision that is appropriate."


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