14th March 2020

Dear friends,

Since writing to you yesterday we have been considering if and how we might continue to run events at the DBC in light of the developing Covid-19 situation.

The perspective that is emerging is that individually and collectively we need to do all we can to slow down the spread of the virus. The intention is that this will minimise the pressure on health services so they are not overwhelmed and can effectively treat those people who need specialist care. This is a responsibility that we each have as members of the wider community. The situation that is unfolding in Italy is truly tragic and I believe we need to do everything in our power to support those people who are afflicted with the virus, and those who care for them, so that it is not replicated here in Ireland.

Any non-essential personal contact or entry into a communal space can enable the spread of the virus and may expose people to unnecessary risk of serious illness or death. We have therefore decided that the wisest and most compassionate course of action is to suspend all events at the DBC. Even with all the precautions available it is simply not possible to create a completely safe space for people to come together. We cannot tell at this time how long this will go on for, but we intend to reopen as soon as it is safe to do so. We will keep you updated as the situation changes.

We are going to concentrate our energy in the coming days and weeks on developing online methods of keeping in touch and practising the Dharma. You will hear from us in the coming days about this. We look forward to connecting with you in this way.

A pandemic like this brings home forcibly how interwoven our lives are, and the pressing need to consider others and the effect of our actions on them. Even if contracting the virus may not pose a serious threat to us personally, we need to consider our responsibility to those who may be more vulnerable.

I feel we have much to draw on in the Buddhist teachings and practices that we have learnt that will help us greatly at this time. While this is a challenging time for all of us, not just here in Ireland, but around the world, we can take heart that we have the resources to meet the challenges that it presents with kindness, generosity and courage.

With much metta,

Jnanadhara

Chair

(on behalf of the centre team and council)