ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS

Ireland has now started to ease Covid-19 restrictions. Essential Water Safety Ireland services are continuing and we are preparing for the gradual return to our other activities.

UPDATE REGARDING ESSENTIAL WATER SAFETY CLASSES AND SERVICES

Following consultation with An Garda Síochána, Water Safety Ireland wishes to inform all members of the Water Safety services currently deemed essential under public health legislation.

WSI personnel may revalidate and train up new Beach & River lifeguards, which will enable our organisation to have sufficient lifeguards for Local Authorities to employ and deploy on our beaches, rivers and lakes for the 2021 bathing season. The Gardaí have interpreted the beach and river lifeguard service as an essential service to the state and that these lifeguards are essential workers.

It will be a matter for local Gardaí to investigate any possible breaches under Regulation 11 of SI No: 701 0f 2020. If our classes are not in support of an essential service and the participants are not essential workers, then it is a “training event” and is in breach of Regulation 11 of SI No: 701 0f 2020.

A pool lifeguard is not an essential service at this time and these premises should be closed until restrictions are lifted.

WSI appreciates your understanding and co-operation on this matter.

CLASSES, TRAINING & REVALIDATION ALLOWED UNDER CURRENT GOVERNMENT GUIDELINES

• NOW – Beach Lifeguard training and revalidation are allowed at present.
• FROM 10th MAY – Surf Instructor beach safety awards and revalidation can take place.
• FROM 10th MAY – Pool Lifeguard courses and Pool Lifeguard Revalidation courses can be run in swimming pools where management permit, behind closed doors.
• FROM 10th MAY – Sport of Lifesaving training (Nippers, Juniors, Seniors, Masters – must have permission from Sport’s Commission).
• JUNE – Summer Week classes can resume this summer. Further information will be issued soon.

All the above must be run following COVID-19 Government Guidelines.