As revealed in Saturday’s JEP, Deputy Hugh Raymond has submitted plans for a separate Covid-recovery framework for sports clubs and associations, following a growing number of complaints over a lack of clarity with regards to indoor and outdoor activities.
The Government of Jersey’s current framework previously stated that outdoor sport posed an equal risk to the retail industry and a marginally lower risk than close-contact services, within Stage 2, yet team sport will currently not be permitted to resume until at least a fortnight after hair and beauty salons have reopened.
Deputy Raymond’s call for dedicated sporting roadmaps is set to be considered by the government’s health chiefs this week, although specific details – and estimated return dates – have yet to be finalised.
It still looks likely that the thousands of Islanders linked to football and hockey – the last to postpone their activities in December – will have to wait until at least March before being allowed to return, but sport leaders are pleased that progress appears to have been made.
Paul Masterton, president of the Jersey Hockey Association, said: ‘I appreciate the government has got a lot to think about at the moment but it has been confusing. With close-contact activities like hair dressing being allowed [from Wednesday 10 February], I do feel it’s strange that sport is not being given the same green light to go ahead.
‘Certainly we don’t want to rush back while there is still a danger but I think it would be beneficial for the Island. Sport plays such an important role for many people and I really welcome the comments made by Deputy Raymond. I just hope he’s listened to.’
Island netballers, meanwhile, will be in for a longer wait – and may not even have an indoor facility available to them if their restrictions extend into April.
‘For us at the moment the problem is our lease at Les Ormes, because it runs out at the end of March, until September,’ said Jersey Netball Association president Linda Andrews. ‘We’re in the process of writing to Les Ormes to see if there could be any leeway, to have it extended if we are allowed back soon.
‘All of our members paid up front for the season in September and they just want to play.’
Full story in Monday’s JEP.
