Staying safe while cheering on the Rebels this weekend – a message from the HSE, An Garda Síochána and Local Authorities
Representatives of the HSE, an Garda Síochána, Cork City Council and Cork County Council have come together to ask everyone to avoid over-crowded settings and to celebrate safely.
Dr Philippa White, a specialist registrar in public health medicine at the Department of Public Health HSE South, asked everyone planning to watch the match to do so safely and reminded the public that everyone (even those fully vaccinated) should still wear a mask in crowded spaces; and keep two metres away from people outside their household.
“We are all looking forward to Sunday’s game and hopefully to celebrations afterwards. We encourage everyone to remember to socialise safely – wear a mask in crowded places, and keep two metres from people not in your household. If you are in a crowded place, think about moving to somewhere less crowded and with good ventilation, so that you can enjoy the game in safety and comfort,” Dr White said.
She added that the community transmission rate in many parts of the country is now very high.
“We have a very high rate of community transmission in most parts of Ireland right now, so if you are travelling to the match or watching it with others this weekend, you should presume that you will encounter Covid-19. That’s why it’s important to keep up with our protective measures, even if you’re vaccinated. And for anyone who is not vaccinated, please take extra care this weekend,” Dr White said.
Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Colm Kelleher encouraged Cork supporters to enjoy this Sunday’s match safely.
“The excitement is palpable here in Cork as we prepare for Sunday’s All-Ireland Final. This is a hugely important occasion for us all as Cork supporters are eager to show their support for our inspirational hurling team. As we prepare for the return of the Liam MacCarthy Cup Leeside, I would encourage everyone to enjoy Sunday’s All-Ireland final safely. Please take heed of public health advice - we’ve come so far and still need to band together to protect the vulnerable people in our communities. Show your support and celebrate our great Cork team by ‘Painting the town red’ - get out and decorate your homes and light up your businesses and public buildings! Corcaigh Abú!”
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Gillian Coughlan, is encouraging supporters to continue to follow the public health guidelines.
“The entire county is behind our senior hurlers who are back in an All-Ireland final for the first time since 2013. It is Cork’s 50th final appearance and hopes are high that we will be able secure the Liam McCarthy cup. Regardless of where you are enjoying the game, I hope that you will do so safely, continue to follow Covid-19 guidelines and show respect for fellow fans. Let’s show everyone what makes us so proud of being from Cork!”
Dr White also reminded the public that anyone with any symptoms of Covid-19 should not be watching the match with others – they will need to get tested and keep away from others while they are waiting for both the test and the test result.
Acting Garda Chief Superintendent Colm O’Sullivan said:
“Please support your County this All Ireland Final Day by continuing to support the public health guidelines. An Garda Síochána wants this year’s final to be a great occasion for everyone. But as Covid-19 is still present within our communities, we all must continue to be careful. By doing so you will be keeping your fellow supporters and community safe.”