AQW 6322/17-22

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 04/09/2020
Answered On Date: 22/09/2020
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the rationale and scientific evidence as to why theatres remain closed as a response to COVID-19.

Answer:

Executive decisions on actions related to COVID-19 are made in the light of advice given by the Chief Medical Officer and the Chief Scientific Advisor.

On 6th August, the Executive agreed the reopening of theatres and concert halls for rehearsals and staff from 8th August and gave an indicative date of 1st September for the return of live audiences. However, due to concern over a rise in cases numbers and the R-number at the time, the 1 September date for live audiences could not subsequently be ratified.

My department is working with the Arts Sector on measures aimed at enabling the safe return of live audiences to our theatres as quickly and as practicably as possible.