asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the reductions in their staffs made by some Dublin theatres and cinemas due to the incidence of entertainments duty; and, if so, if he is in a position to announce any proposals to alleviate the loss of employment suffered by over 50 theatrical workers and musicians.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment of Theatre Workers and Musicians.
Mr. A. Byrne
I have been informed that a Dublin theatre has given notice of the termination of their employment to a number of persons engaged in the presentation of entertainments consisting partly of stage shows and partly of films. By reason of its being a patent theatre presenting entertainments of this kind, this theatre enjoys a valuable concession under the entertainments duty law and I am not aware that the decision to discontinue the stage shows arises from the incidence of the duty.
I understand that the question of the discontinuance of the stage shows is at present the subject of discussions between representatives of the theatre management and the employees. It would be premature for me to say anything further at this stage.