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Singer Van Morrison has accused the Northern Ireland Executive of being \u201cshambolic\u201d in its approach to lifting Covid-19 restrictions.<\/p>\nSinger Van Morrison has accused the Northern Ireland Executive of being \u201cshambolic\u201d in its approach to lifting Covid-19 restrictions.<\/p>\n
Last week the musician cancelled a number of gigs planned for the Ulster Hall after Stormont ministers delayed a decision on concerts recommencing, stating that they wanted more information about risks.<\/p>\n
But on Monday, ministers agreed that theatres and concert venues can reopen from 6pm on Tuesday.<\/p>\n
The singer-songwriter said his cancelled concerts could have gone ahead, but blamed the Executive for not giving enough notice.<\/p>\n
He added: \u201cOnce again the Northern Ireland Executive has been shambolic in their approach to lifting concert restrictions.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe announcement has come so late in the day that it\u2019s a kick in the teeth.<\/p>\n
\u201cCancelled concerts that were planned for this week, could have gone ahead.<\/p>\n
\u201cRegrettably like many other sectors, there\u2019s been no advance warning, no plan or road map for the industry.<\/p>\n
\u201cStormont have lost the confidence in the public and are clearly deaf to our industry when making decisions.\u201d<\/p>\n
Morrison has been an outspoken critic of Covid restrictions.<\/p>\n
Last month, he cancelled a series of gigs at the Europa Hotel in Belfast at the last minute, because they were in breach of regulations.<\/p>\n
Instead, he took to the stage in the Europa where he was joined by DUP MP Ian Paisley in chanting that Northern Ireland\u2019s Health Minister Robin Swann \u201cis very dangerous\u201d.<\/p>\n
On Monday, the Executive announced that audiences will be permitted to return to performances.<\/p>\n
Live music will be permitted for rehearsals and performances, with no restriction to background or ambient levels of volume.<\/p>\n
Entry to performances for audiences will be by ticket only.<\/p>\n
Audiences for indoor events must have allocated seating and remain seated and are not permitted to dance.<\/p>\n
Social distancing of one meter is required.<\/p>\n