I am acutely aware of the devastating impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the arts/culture and live entertainment sectors. I have engaged with numerous stakeholders in the sector during the course of the pandemic to ensure that appropriate supports were put in place.
To support the industry through this difficult period I have to date allocated funding for a suite of measures designed to sustain and support live performance and employment opportunities in the sector, including the Music and Entertainment Business Assistance Scheme (MEBAS).
The aim of the MEBAS scheme is to make a contribution to the overheads of businesses, whether sole traders, partnerships or incorporated entities operating exclusively within the live entertainment sector. Businesses of musicians and singers of all genres are eligible to apply, as are sound engineers, lighting engineers, audio engineers, stage managers, stage technicians, sound and lighting equipment suppliers, live-streaming equipment suppliers and full-time Disc Jockeys.
The initial phase of this scheme closed for applications on 30 September and I was pleased to launch a second phase of this scheme earlier this month.
The application the Deputy refers to relates to business activity outside the scope of this scheme. Officials in my Department have engaged with the applicant in relation to their application and the appeals process for this scheme.
