The Music & Entertainment Association of Ireland (MEAI) have shared their response to the launch of the Live Performance Support Scheme 2021, announced by the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD today. They have noted that they welcome the Minister's acknowledgement of their "request for this blanket support", and state that the "MEBAS grant will help a huge sector of the industry without the need for competitive process."

"However, we are cognisant that the scheme will not benefit everyone despite our repeated pleas that such a scheme should help look after the most vulnerable within the sector," the MEAI continued. "We are waiting to see the final draft of the scheme, to understand the finer details and see how this will benefit people in real terms, but we must welcome this hugely positive step in the right direction which was strongly supported and delivered by the Minister as the proper and just course

"MEAI thanks the Minister for her understanding and determination in creating this support which will benefit thousands without a competitive process. The practical benefit of MEBAS for the industry will be in the finer detail so we must wait to see that, but for now, we recognise that this is a big step in the right direction."

The Live Performance Support Scheme 2021 will be open for applications from March 19, 2021 until April 14. See here for more information.