Live music to return from 21 June

Entertainment venues across Tyrone could welcome back live music from 21 June, after the NI Executive agreed to the relaxation of restrictions from this date subject to approval from public health officials this week.

Most venues have had their doors completely shut since March 2020, with the reopening of hospitality venues recently coming with the proviso that there would be no live music or dancing allowed.

Among the other changes agreed by the Executive on Thursday include the reopening of theatres, while up to 10 people will be able to meet indoors from two households.

The cap on outdoor gatherings at 500 is also due to be removed on 21 June, to be replaced with individual risk assessments.

In a statement, the Executive said it had agreed on the further relaxation of restrictions, subject to ratification on 17 June.

“The Executive today reviewed the next phase in its Pathway out of Restrictions,” the statement said.

“We are signalling our intention to make further easements in a number of key areas in the weeks and months ahead.”

“While we have come a long way the public health situation remains fragile, with the Delta variant being a cause for significant concern. It will be important to monitor the progression of this, and other variants, very closely and examine the emerging data on the impacts of previous relaxations on the course of the epidemic.”

“In light of these uncertainties, at this point we are in a position to give indicative dates for future relaxations, which will be subject to ratification by the Executive before they are confirmed.”