Gatherings of up to 5,000 people may be possible from September

Outdoor gatherings of up to 5,000 people could potentially be allowed from September onwards, and cinemas could open in August as COVID-19 restrictions ease, Leo Varadkar has stated.

The Taoiseach commented to reporters today that if the coronavirus stays suppressed, “we could see some smaller outdoor or mass gatherings in September, maybe outdoor cultural events of a few thousand people - 3,000 or 4,000 or 5,000, but it is unlikely to be more than that."

Leo Varadkar also mentioned that cinemas could "operate at a profit" while ensuring that customers were engaged in social distancing in August.

He also acknowledged that keeping people two metres apart is tougher for live performances and theaters “so that’s going to be trickier but if it is safe to do so, I will do it”.

Under the current Government’s COVID-19 roadmap, theatres, cinemas, nightclubs and casinos can reopen from July 20 only if social distancing measures are strictly implemented.

Minister for Culture Josepha Madigan and Leo Varadkar announced today that plans are underway for a €25 million package of supports for artists, arts organisations and resources for museums and culture workers.

The funding is in addition to money previously allocated to the creative sector.

A total of €20 million is being allocated to the Arts Council, bringing its yearly total to €100 million, with a further €5 million was being made available for securing the future of cultural and museum spaces and the production of digital art and online performances.

“Over the last few months we have had many days of sorrow and suffering. In times like this we see the true value of culture to society - the books, the films, the songs, the plays - all the different forms of culture that entertain as well as enlighten,” the Taoiseach said.

“The pandemic hasn’t been easy for our artists and cultural institutions, and I know their livelihoods have been hit hard. So many events have been cancelled, so many places have been forced to close.

“The Government wants to recognise how important culture is to our lives and it wants to match its words with actions.”

Josepha Madigan stated that the arts sector had “suffered more than most in the crisis and will continue to experience difficult and challenging times long after other sectors have returned to work”.

“Despite this, I am confident that artists and arts organisations across the country can weather this storm and emerge with all the wonderful creativity that is its hallmark.”