Plans have been announced by the Golf Union of Ireland and the Irish Ladies Golf Union for the return of recreational golf in Ireland, albeit on a restricted basis.
Golf club members can return to the course from 18 May with a maximum of three players groups spread out over fourteen minute intervals.
Courses will be limited to half of their usual capacity with a maximum of 60 players on the course at any one time.
The Golf Union of Ireland revealed a five phase staggered plan, which mirrors the Government's roadmap for reopening society and businesses.
In the first phase on 18 May only golf club members within 5km of their club will be allowed to play.
Members within 20km of their course and guests will be allowed to play three weeks later on 8 June, with club visitors then permitted a further three weeks later on 29 June.
All tee-times must be booked in advance, either by telephone or online and there will be personnel on hand to ensure strict social distancing is maintain.
The return to play plans only apply to the Republic of Ireland currently and a system for Northern Ireland will not be decided until the UK government or Northern Ireland Executive confirms arrangements.
A statement from the GUI and ILGU read: "Golf is in the very privileged position to be allowed to resume at this stage and this return has been based on the sport being able to demonstrate to government that it can take place in a safe, socially distant manner.
"All clubs, golfers and staff have a shared responsibility to ensure the Protocol is adhered to. We ask that clubs pledge their commitment to implementing the protocol by signing up using the link sent by email to the club.
We are aware that there are several other unofficial guidelines in circulation. These documents have not been reviewed by the relevant government departments and state agencies. Therefore, golf clubs and golfers must exclusively adhere to the Protocol as published by the GUI and ILGU.
"The ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency remains our primary concern and overriding priority. The Unions acknowledge the tremendous efforts of all frontline workers which has allowed golf and society in general to consider this gradual return to normal life."
