Irish Equity and MUI call for increased support for workers and venues

Irish Equity and the Musicians Union of Ireland have called for an immediate increase in support from the Government for all workers and entertainment venues impacted by the tightening of Covid-19 restrictions. 

SIPTU Sector Organiser, Michelle Quinn, said: “The members of Irish Equity and the Musicians Union of Ireland fully appreciate that we as a country must act in a manner that protects the public health of all in our communities.

“They also fully appreciate that the further restrictions placed on the entertainment sector will have a significant negative impact on what was a tentative recovery for their industries. As a consequence they are calling upon the Government to act immediately to put in place measures that will assist workers in the sector whose livelihoods are once again under dire threat.”

She added: “The Government must move to ensure full support is available immediately to all those who work in the sector and all performance venues including the smallest facilities.”

Equity and MUI seek further financial aid for performers

Following the introduction of further Covid-19 restrictions, Irish Equity and the Musicians’ Union of Ireland (MUI) have welcomed the return of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment and the continuing support available through the Covid Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS). 

“Additional Covid-19 restrictions have already damaged the live arts and entertainment sector due to the reduced capacity of theatres and performance venues and, as a consequence, artists, performers, technicians, creative and support staff will continue to struggle financially,” SIPTU Organiser, Michelle Quinn said.  

“The sector is reeling from the restrictions imposed as the result of the pandemic over the last two years. Now, additional financial supports are required and there must be easy access for those in need of assistance. We are calling on the Arts Minister, Catherine Martin, to lower the eligibility limits in the Live Performance Support Scheme (seasonal musical, theatre and pantomime) to support productions, including those in smaller, local and regional venues. 

“We acknowledge the previous supports made available to the sector but these have not been adequate or proportionate to the devastation of livelihoods inflicted by successive lockdowns during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

About Us

The Musicians’ Union of Ireland (MUI), an affiliate of SIPTU,  represents musicians from every genre along with music teachers, singers and other music professionals.

The Union works hard to protect members, whether freelance or directly employed, from exploitation and has a successful track record of ensuring that members receive all contractual entitlements arising from their performances. Continue Reading