Minister welcomes first steps to live music returning in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland's Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has welcomed today’s decision to relax restrictions on live music.

With effect from 5 July, live music will be able to return to licensed and unlicensed premises that sell food or alcohol. Music will also be permitted at outdoor events with no restrictions on volume.

Following a visit to The Limelight in Belfast, Minister Hargey said: “I have been advocating for a relaxation of these restrictions as soon as is safely possible, so I welcome this positive announcement on my proposals in relation to live music.

“The hospitality and arts sectors have been severely impacted by the effects of this pandemic and these relaxations in the regulations will ease some of that burden in a measured, safe and sustainable way.

“The decisions today is positive for those working in music and the arts.”

Notes to editors:

From 5 July:

1. Live music will be permitted in licensed and unlicensed hospitality businesses that sell or provide food and/or drink for consumption on the premises. This will be at ambient level only to allow conversations at normal levels and with suitable mitigations in place, such as screens.

2. Music will be permitted at outdoor events with no restrictions on volume.