#holdfirm#staysafe#bekind

We continue to advise all members to heed the advice from the relevant authorities and to follow the public health guidance as determined by the governments in both jurisdictions.

Published government documents detailing the easing of restrictions:

ROI Roadmap for Reopening Businesses and Society               NI Coronavirus – Our Approach to Decision Making Summary

The Department of Health is leading the government response in Ireland to COVID-19 and are providing up to date information and advice on it’s website at https://www.gov.ie/en/organisation/department-of-health

Waterways Ireland has published its own roadmaps for the reopening of the navigations. There is one for the Republic of Ireland and one for Northern Ireland.

Since Monday 29 June, all travel restrictions on the island of Ireland have been lifted and waterways have reopened with reduced hours for locks and bridges. All public service blocks remain closed.

While social boating is now possible, people should only boat with members of their own household. Continue to pay particular attention to correct hand hygiene, cleaning of surfaces, cough/sneeze etiquette and physical distancing (social distancing) – keeping 2m between yourself and anyone not living in the same house / flat / boat as you.

IWAI has released an infographic on social distancing while boating.

Branches can only meet using technology e.g. skype/zoom meetings, conference calls, email discussions, whatsapp discussions.

Indoor gatherings of up to 50 persons and outdoor gatherings of up to 200 persons are now permitted whilst maintaining social distancing and all other public health measures. However all IWAI organised events, with the exception of work parties, remain postponed and any events that do take place may not be covered by IWAI insurance at this time.

If a Branch wishes to organise a work party they must contact the Vice President in advance.

If you are feeling unwell, with a fever and/or cough, stay at home and phone your GP.

Executive will update this guidance as the situation develops but it is essential that members keep themselves informed using the information at the links above.