Tony Gregory
Question:90 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if licences are required for the holding of concerts in public places; and if so, the procedures involved in this regard. [6325/01]
Written Answers. - Concert Licences.
At present the holding of outdoor events is subject to the planning code. A person must seek planning permission to hold an event at a particular venue, unless there is an established authorised use for the holding of events at the venue. However, a new licensing procedure is provided for under Part XVI of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 for the holding of outdoor events. Under these provisions a licence will be required for the holding of prescribed events, or classes of events.
Regulations to be made under this Act will set out the procedure to apply for a licence, including public notification and the timeframes for deciding such applications. The local authority may decide to refuse or grant such a licence, either with or without conditions. The authority may attach conditions to ensure, amongst other things, compliance with codes of conduct, public safety and order at events, and the abatement of nuisance to residents. The authority may also require the payment of a financial contribution to it or to other bodies, for example the Garda, in respect of the costs arising in connection with the event. Extensive provision is also made in relation to the inspection of events and measures to ensure compliance with the conditions of a licence.
Where an event is being held by a local authority, the Act provides for a public consultation procedure, following which the manager must prepare a report for the elected members on the proposal to hold the event. The members may then amend or reject the proposal. This part of the Act will commence later this year following preparation of the regulations and guidance which are necessary for its effective implementation.