Question reference: S5W-35861
- Asked by: Angus MacDonald, MSP for Falkirk East, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 9 March 2021
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Current status: Answered by Mairi Gougeon on 23 March 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what consideration it has given to allowing dancers who have been classed as elite performers to resume one-to-one training, in advance of international competitions later this year.
Answer
The Scottish Government appreciates elite dancers will want to resume training in advance of international competitions. Where an individual has qualified for a world or regional dance competition, in level 4 areas the provisions in of Schedule 5, Part 1 (3)(aa) of the Health Protection (Coronavirus) (Restrictions and Requirements) (Local Levels) (Scotland) Regulations 2020 (as amended) would apply. These provide that only professional sportspeople are permitted to train in legally closed facilities (such as an indoor fitness studio). The definition of a professional sportsperson is set out in the interpretation section of the Health Protection (Coronavirus) (Restrictions and Requirements) (Local Levels) (Scotland) Regulations 2020 (as amended).
The Scottish Government is currently discussing some additional flexibility around the type of event that is referred to in the legislation above, however currently a professional sportsperson refers to someone who derives a living from competing in sport; or is a senior representative nominated by a relevant sporting body; or is a member of the senior training squad for a relevant sporting body; or is on an elite development pathway; and must train or compete in a sport for which a resumption of performance sport plan has been approved by sportscotland or the Scottish Ministers.
If a governing body considered there were athletes who would be eligible under the above definitions, they would need to discuss this with sportscotland and they would then be expected to work with sportscotland to develop a Resumption of Performance Sport Plan (sportscotland’s guidance is here ).
Where individuals attend a dance school that offers educational qualifications such as HNDs, guidance for colleges and universities would apply to such a school as it is an educational provider and there is no requirement in the regulations for colleges to be closed in level 4 areas (although the guidance provides that students should only be back in the limited circumstances where it is necessary for assessments etc.).
In addition, in her statement to Parliament on 16 March, the First Minister noted the intention to open indoor facilities on, or around, 26 April and this would permit group exercise to resume for those aged under 18 who may not meet the requirements outlined above.