STATEMENT FROM BASKETBALL IRELAND – MARCH 9^th, 2020

FOR URGENT ATTENTION OF: ALL NATIONAL COACHES, MANAGEMENT TEAMS, PARENTS AND GUARDIANS OF PLAYERS INVOLVED WITH BASKETBALL IRELAND INTERNATIONAL SQUADS AND THE BASKETBALL COMMUNITY IN GENERAL

You are all aware of the various challenges that the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is creating for all aspects of our lives. The onus is on us all individually and collectively to take on board as much information and advice as we can from the Health professionals and look after ourselves and our communities.

Domestically, in relation to our sport, Basketball Ireland will follow directions issued by Government, particularly around policies relating to gatherings of large numbers of people. You will most likely hear or see those instructions at the same time as we do, but we will certainly be issuing updates as required.

At present, the advice is that shaking hands at and during games should be avoided as a precaution.

As regards International travel by our squads for preparation games and ultimately for European Championships, we urge the use of common sense. It is advisable not to book any further trips from today as there is a high possibility that as additional restrictions are introduced around Europe, inter-country travel may be reduced or prohibited, in particular non-essential travel.

As insurance to cover losses is unavailable, that means that apart from the health risk of travelling, it is almost certain that any funds expended will not be recoverable.

FIBA will ultimately decide if the various European Championships will go ahead and, as of this morning, they have only said that they are monitoring the pan-European situation.

However, we urge our Head Coaches and Team Managers to fully consult with parents before expending any funds on booking any further travel for preparation games.

Basketball Ireland will not be in a position to underwrite lost deposits or fares.

If you require any further advice please contact our Elite Performance Committee on EPC@basketballIreland.ie

Bernard J. O’Byrne

Secretary General/Chief Executive

Basketball Ireland