NARGC Statement on Shooting and Hunting during Covid-19 Level 5.

NARGC STATEMENT ON SHOOTING DURING THE CURRENT

LEVEL 5 OF THE PLAN FOR LIVING WITH COVID-19

The NARGC has sought clear direction from Government on the matter of shooting (and fishing) during the current Level 5 of the Plan for Living with Covid-19 but a response is still awaited.

In the absence of an instruction otherwise, the NARGC directs its Members to read the publication by the Dept. of An Taoiseach issued on 19/10/’20 -

https://merrionstreet.ie/en/News-Room/News/Ireland_placed_on_Level_5_of_the_Plan_for_Living_with_COVID.html.

In this, significant to us and our sport, we read:-

People will be permitted to exercise within a radius of 5 km of their home.
No organised outdoor gatherings should take place
No organised indoor gatherings should take place
All training activities should be individual only
It is possible to meet with 1 other household in an outdoor setting which is not a

home or garden, such as a park, including for exercise.

No other social or family gatherings should take place.

On this basis, it would appear that a Member may engage in hunting activity, along with another person, provided the activity occurs within 5 klms from home and that social distancing, mask wearing and hand sanitization (as required) are observed. Travel to and from the area of activity, if a vehicle is used, should be based on one person per vehicle.

In these as in all circumstances, please follow HSE Guidelines and Government advice. All Government advice is freely and openly available to all citizens and evolves as the Government’s response to this Pandemic changes. It is accordingly a matter for each Member to familiarise him/herself fully and directly with all relevant advice, directives, and legislative enactments.