ELDERLY AND vulnerable Dubliners cocooning through the coronavirus pandemic have been given two hours of exclusive access to the county’s stunning parks and green spaces.
It’s a welcome respite for those who have spent close to two months indoors as part of the government’s ongoing lockdown measures.
With restrictions beginning to ease, those cocooning through the pandemic are being let out to enjoy a walk – provided they keep the appropriate distance from others.
And while that is simple enough for many across the country, it can be a slightly trickier prospect in cities like Dublin with a large and bustling population.
This is especially true in parks, which have become a welcome oasis for many seeking gentle exercise in serene surroundings.
Now Dublin City Council has moved create a designated time for cocooners to use parks.
Under the plans, they will have exclusive access to these green spaces for two hours from 1:30pm to 3:30pm.
The wider public has been asked to use parks at alternative times in order to create a safe haven for those cocooning to enjoy gentle exercise in confidence.
Saint Stephen's Green park, DublinIt’s part of an initiative put together by Dublin City Council, Fingal County Council, South Dublin County Council and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and has been welcomed by Lord Mayor of Dublin Tom Brabazon.
“I would encourage all Dubliners to allow the people that have been cocooning in their community for the last number of weeks the chance to enjoy using their park safely during this dedicated two - hour period every day,"” he said.
That support is echoed by South Dublin mayor and councillor Vicki Casserly:
“I fully support this innovative plan to allow the Over-70s and medically vulnerable people much needed dedicated space and time in the outdoors - allowing them to get their long-awaited fresh air and exercise in as safe an environment as possible.”
