Coronavirus / Wishart presses for indoor contact sports rule to be reviewed
A BAN on adult indoor contact sports under level one of Scotland’s coronavirus restrictions could be reviewed following an intervention from Shetland MSP Beatrice Wishart.
Wishart highlighted during a hybrid question session in the Scottish Parliament that Shetland’s winter means outdoor pitches are often waterlogged and impossible to play on.
She said that local football teams had asked why large, well ventilated facilities like the 60:40 indoor pitch at the Clickimin were not allowed to offer safe alternatives.
In response, minister for public health Joe Fitzpatrick agreed to look again at the guidance.
Shetland is one of five areas in Scotland currently placed under level one of restrictions.
Wishart said: “Keeping active while we deal with ongoing restrictions is absolutely essential. Sports like football tick the physical and mental health boxes, and these opportunities were sorely missed during the summer in lockdown.
“While Shetland is under Level 1 restrictions, on the basis of low case numbers, local teams are questioning whether safe alternatives could be found. All options should be properly considered.
“I am glad the Scottish Government have agreed to my request for a review of this guidance, and look forward to being updated on this.”
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