Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate the Deputy's comments, especially about the live entertainment sector. It is important to say that we are in a much better position now than previously. Music is now allowed at weddings. Indeed, I was at a wedding last Sunday and was delighted to see three different sets of musicians playing. In total, there were nine people employed at that one wedding for the day. I was heartened to see that, to be honest. Music is still allowed in pubs and concerts can take place. However, it is going to take time to build this sector back up. Some people may be nervous about going out and this could impact on ticket sales, particularly for concerts and similar events. The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Deputy Catherine Martin, has worked to bring in a number of sector-specific supports for the entertainment sector and is in constant contact with its representatives. Over €60 million has been provided this year to support the live performance sector. A €25 million live performance support scheme is in place and only yesterday the Minister announced a further €2 million under that scheme to support the live sector.

See this speech in context