IT WILL be April 19 at least before local football returns with the FAI today announcing man extension to the cessation of all football under its jurisdiction.
The FAI remains committed to a June return for the League of Ireland, but football at intermediate, junior and schoolboys level may return at an earlier date.
An initial cessation was to last until this Sunday, March 29 but, following fresh directives from the Government, that period has now been extended.
A statement from the FAI said: “The decision to extend a deadline for the return to football has been taken in light of the ever-growing threat posed by the COVID-19 outbreak and in the best interests of our players, coaches, volunteers, supporters and staff.
“This decision will continue to be monitored on an ongoing basis.
“The FAI is in communication with the Department of Health and UEFA on COVID-19 and will continue to follow all government guidelines.
“The Association advises all members, volunteers and stakeholders to respect the HSE guidelines on social distancing during this pandemic.”
The FAI said that regular meetings are taking place with representatives from the National League Executive Committee and the Professional Footballer’s Association of Ireland.
The statement added: “FAI Medical Director Dr Alan Byrne has again advised the FAI that in the current exceptional circumstances, clubs should not engage in collective training during the cessation period for all football activity under the FAI’s jurisdiction.
“This recommendation is based on the government’s desire to avoid the spread of COVID-19 and Dr Byrne strongly advises against clubs training during this cessation period which runs until April 19th inclusive.”
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