Following much discussion about our post regarding Aqua classes for this year under Covid restrictions, please see below the response from Reagan Lima, CEO of GSLA to clarify the position on over 70s taking part in Aqua classes:
“Following recent conversations/meetings and in the interest of clarity please note that local legislation does not at present restrict the movement of over 70’s.
However, Her Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar on the advice of the Director of Public Health continues to recommend that those over 70 and those individuals considered at high risk restrict their movements and do not leave their homes unnecessarily. In addition, unnecessary socialising is also discouraged.
Notwithstanding, the effects on physical and mental health of inactivity and particularly after the lockdown period are well documented and it is because of this that the GSLA have contacted PAAMOA with a view to resuming some activities within the restrictions and within safe parameters.
It is therefore suggested that those members of PAAMOA who are over 70 and/or fall within the high risk category have separate sessions both in the pool and at the Bayside Sports Complex. This will in effect become an extension of the Golden Hour scenario that has been restarted a few weeks back at several locations around Gibraltar.
You may find that some members want to join the main sessions. Ultimately it is an internal PAAMOA decision on whether you want to run “normal” sessions or segregated as suggested but it is ultimately up to the individual themselves whether they wish to run the risk and expose themselves to potential transmission.
The restart of sports in general brings an inherent risk. Irrespective of the measures implemented and the restrictions imposed it is impossible to eradicate the virus completely. We can provide as safe an environment as possible but members need to accept the risks involved if they wish to return to activity.”
In light of the response from GSLA, your committee has decided to run classes as normal, but with the required restrictions as stated in our previous post. This means that classes will have to be divided equally with each group having a class every other week.
Members will have to fill in a new Health Form BEFORE they start the first class.
We hope this clarifies the situation and satisfies those over 70’s who are keen to take part.
Our main concern is that you keep active BUT keep safe.