Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020
75. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation when live music in venues will recommence; the guidelines that will apply to musicians and venues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15240/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 19th June, the Government, having considered the expert public health advice provided by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), approved the rephasing of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business. Apart from some exceptions, the reopening of most sectors was brought forward to Phase 3, which began on Monday 29th June. This includes theatres, concert halls, music venues and other culture outlets. Gatherings of up to 50 people indoors or 200 people outdoors are currently permissible when conducted in line with public health advice. However, specific recommendations apply in relation to singing, choirs and the playing of musical instruments in groups. These are available for review at https://www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/77452/39d51b02-5633-4e2f-a070-4551a3521081.pdf#page=7
Phase 4 of Roadmap is due to commence on 20 July, subject to public health advice and Government approval. Gatherings of up to 100 people indoors and 500 people outdoors will be permissible in this phase provided social distancing and relevant public health advice is adhered to.
The National Return to Work Safely Protocol is a useful guide for businesses in making their assessments and adapting their workplace procedures and practices to comply fully with the COVID-19 related public health protection measures. It sets out in very clear terms for employers and employees the steps that they must take firstly before a workplace reopens, and then while it continues to operate. The Protocol is available at https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Return-to-Work-Safely-Protocol.html.
The Health and Safety Authority, which is an agency of my Department, is the lead agency in overseeing compliance with the National Return to Work Safely Protocol in the workplace. If employers or employees need further guidance on the Protocol, the HSA Helpline can be contacted at 1890 289 389 or wcu@hsa.ie.
In order to assist businesses to address the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Government has put in place a comprehensive suite of supports for firms of all sizes, which includes the wage subsidy scheme, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities. These supports are designed to build confidence, to further assist businesses in terms of the management of their companies and to allow them to begin looking to the future and start charting a path forward for weeks and months ahead. For a full list of supports for business please see https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/.
I understand the impact that the pandemic is having on the social and cultural life of citizens right across the country. I know that employers, employees and the self-employed in the live music and entertainment sector want to get back to organising events for larger audiences than are currently permitted due to the public health risks associated with COVID-19. I wish to assure all in this sector that I will work with my Government colleagues to secure further details and clarity as we progress through the final phase of the Roadmap and beyond. It is important to note, however, that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions will be informed by the public health advice at the time.
