Government To Hold Trial Events For Gigs And Sports Matches

Pilot programme for gigs and sports to be revealed

Gigs and attending matches could return soon, as the government has announced a pilot programme to hold trial events.

It was one of the measures announced yesterday, following the easing of a large number of restrictions.

If successful, it could lead to a return to large-scale live music and entertainment events - both indoor and outdoor.

"I am delighted this gives our live events and sport a signal," said Culture Minister Catherine Martin.

"We are a nation that loves arts, sport and entertainment and I will do my best to help them."

I hope today sets a positive tone for everyone as we move into the summer months #reopening

May
🟢intercounty travel
🟢outdoor training/pods of 15
🟢museums/galleries

June
🟢hotels
🟢outdoor dining
🟢cinemas & theatres

Next, largescale pilot eventshttps://t.co/hcJYB1Wn1J pic.twitter.com/HZRilzZWT2

— Catherine Martin TD (@cathmartingreen) April 29, 2021

The news will come as a boost to the live entertainment sector, which has been shut since March 2020.

Sports organisations will also be encouraged, as sport has mostly been held without fans present.

However there isn't a set date in place for these to continue.

"It's really complex from planning, from ticketing, to the crowd management, to how you travel to and from, and anything from looking at the use of testing to analysing the crowd management," Minister Martin added.

She also confirmed that her Department is looking at the phased return to smaller, seated venues.