Coronavirus Updates from GCC

Update: March 17th: Leo Varadkar addresses the nation:

Leo Varadkar addresses the nation on St. Patrick's Day and outlines measures being taken by the government in the crisis. Full speech here:

https://www.thejournal.ie/leo-varadkar-announcement-covid-19-coronavirus-5049376-Mar2020/

Update Published 15 March 2020 From: Department of Health


The Health Protection Surveillance Centre has today been informed of 40 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ireland.

23 males, 17 females
25 are associated with the east of the country, 9 are associated with the west, 6 are associated with the south

There have been 2 deaths associated with COVID-19 in Ireland.

There are now 169 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ireland.

The HSE is now working to identify any contacts the patients may have had, to provide them with information and advice to prevent further spread.

The government has today called on all public houses and bars (including hotel bars) to close from this evening (Sunday 15 March) until at least 29 March.

Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health said:

"In regard to upcoming St. Patrick's Day celebrations, the government is calling on all members of the public not to organise or participate in any parties in private house or other venues which would put other peoples lives at risk.

"Everyone is asked to reduce their social contact over this time period. House parties/ COVID-19 parties carry the same risks as being in a pub or club, therefore people should not organise or attend them. The virus is now in our community, it is up to us to limit its spread.

"Now is the time for action and to heed the public health advise we will continue to provide."

Rachel Kenna, Deputy Chief Nurse, Department of Health, said:

"Healthcare workers across the service are working under extraordinary conditions, preparing for the potential impact of COVID-19.

"If all citizens work together and comply with social distancing guidelines, and other measures the government may take in the coming weeks, we will have a stronger response to this virus. Help our healthcare workers in their task."

The National Public Health Emergency Team will meet on Monday 15 March to continue its review of Ireland's ongoing preparedness for COVID-19.

ENDS

Thursday March 12th 2020: Coronavirus update:

Due to the government statement just issued regarding the closure of all schools, colleges, community groups and cultural institutions until March 29th, from 6pm today, due to the Coronavirus, the circus will be closing during this period.

Let's keep in mind that this measure is intended to keep us well, so we welcome the precaution that we are being encouraged to take, in order to prevent further spread of the virus to those who are most vulnerable. We will do our part in supporting the national effort and we encourage our members and their families and friends to try to remain positive during what is a worrying time, we will support each other, be kind and take the advice being offered from the national agencies.

In the meantime, you will hear from us on our social media channels, we will send direct texts and emails to members as we receive any updates, and we will provide some tips for ways to stay entertained at home!


All classes will run normally today until 6pm, please note that Pantalone and Adult Aerial will not go ahead today. All other activities such as clubs and classes will cease for the next two weeks. Updates will be shared here and on our social media channels.



You can read the Official Government statement regarding the national closures here: https://www.gov.ie/en/news/7e0...

Thank you.

GCC Team





March 10th 2020:

Dear Members,


As you are all aware, we are dealing with the spread of the Coronavirus in our communities. To continue to keep you and your loved ones well in light of COVID19, we are issuing the attached policy for our approach to dealing with the outbreak. We will continue to post relevant information from the HSE in this news item as relevant updates come in.

We will all need to work together to ensure the containment of this virus and thank you for assisting us. We would appreciate it if you could wash your hands before classes, not touch your face, and sneeze or cough into a tissue or bent elbow if you need to. Practice, practice, practice is what will prepare and protect us.

Stay well and we will keep you updated with any changes or new advice as we receive it ourselves.

Thank you.

Galway Community Circus Team