Call for answers over decision to delay return of live music
A decision to delay the planned return of live music in Northern Ireland until July 5 has been described as “hugely disappointing”.
Last week, the Executive had outlined a number of indicative dates, including June 21 for the return of live music performances, which were to be ratified on Thursday.
However, this has now been delayed amid concern over rising Covid cases and in particular the spread of the Delta variant.
Reacting to the news, Hospitality Ulster chief Colin Neill said: “This is hugely disappointing information. We are at a loss as to why this date can just be pushed back without any consultation with the industry.
“We are told the vaccines are effective against serious illness in relation to the delta variant, so can someone please tell us on what basis has the Executive taken this decision? How does live music, played at ambient volume, increase the spread of the virus?
“We are astounded that things can just be kicked down the road like this at the stroke of a pen without sharing the evidence with those impacted. Hospitality is the only industry operating under such a high level of Covid restrictions and are still struggling to break even.
“We need to be told on what basis this call has been made, how it can be justified, and how they explain to those who had planned to get back to work will have to go another two weeks without any income.
“Our musicians and music venues and pubs really do deserve to see the evidence.”
The relaxation of rules would have included resumption of live music along with removing the cap on outdoor gatherings and other measures.
Meanwhile the Department of Health has said a new “vaccine passport” aimed at reducing delays experienced by travellers should be available from July.
People in Northern Ireland can travel abroad under the traffic lights system and must obey any isolation guidance on their return.
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