Lack of regulation in the transportation of musical instruments.

Mr Higgins said: "Heightened security across Europe has lead to airport security services being stricter than ever, and rightly so. However, this should not impact negatively on people whose very livelihoods depend on their instruments travelling safely".

In some airports, musical instruments must be put into the hold, whereas in other airports instruments can be carried on as hand luggage. This is not good news for musicians, who need their instruments to be in top condition.

Michael Burke, President of the European Council of Artists highlighted the way in which individual Airports treat the transport of musical instruments. "It is ridiculous that there are no guidelines for carrying these fragile goods which can be worth up to many thousands of euro, I have raised this issue with the European Commission and look forward to hearing the response," said Mr. Burke.