The Minister for Arts Catherine Martin has said that ‘small organised cultural events’ can take place outdoors from 10 May for a maximum of 15 people. The news is part of a wider opening up of the country over the summer months, announced by the Government yesterday (29 April), following the restrictions since January due to Covid-19.

Minister Martin also said that her department is currently preparing proposals to hold a limited number of pilot large music events, both indoor and outdoor. She added:

European countries have taken interesting approaches. Details will be firmed up in the weeks ahead but I am delighted this gives our live events and sport a signal. We are a nation that loves arts, sport and entertainment and I will do my best to help them.

The Minister added that her department is working on proposals for ‘a phased approach to reopening small music venues (seated only)’, subject to health advice. She said: ‘I recently established the Return to Live Entertainment Working Group who will submit their guidelines for the live entertainment sector next week.’

The National Campaign for the Arts issued a statement yesterday seeking further clarification, in particular whether artists can now return to their places of work to start creating and rehearsing for future performances. The NCFA is also seeking details on when exactly the proposals will be announced, and what financial supports will be in place until the arts sector is fully open.

For the full Government announcement see here. Minister Catherine Martin’s statement is here. The NCFA’s statement is available here.