The Music and Entertainment Association of Ireland has released a statement expressing concern on behalf of musicians who fear for their safety in Temple Bar, Dublin.

“We have been looking into this because so many of our members have said they are very worried about their vulnerability when confronted by gangs loitering around the Temple Bar area in particular,” said MEAI spokesperson Rebecca Cappuccini.

The MEAI says it has contacted the Lord Mayor's office and the Gardaí in relation to the situation, but has seen no improvement.

"Our members regularly highlight the pervasive safety issues faced by gigging musicians and workers in Dublin city. The presence of gangs and disruptive individuals in public spaces poses significant risks to the well-being and livelihoods of those attending events and our members," Cappuccini said.

According to figures relased by the Gardaí, common assaults increased by over 60% and serious assaults increased by 90% last year for the South Dublin area, which includes Temple Bar.

This trend is a reversal of the decrease seen in personal assaults during the pandemic, thought to be due in part to the closure of pubs, clubs, and bars.