Public should think before booking event tickets for 2021, warns Leo Varadkar

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar warns people not to pre book event tickets as the program might get cancelled or rescheduled. Tánaiste also said that sometimes, the buyers might not get a refund if the programs or events are rescheduled.

Tánaiste said this as a response in the Dáil yesterday, to Labour leader Alan Kelly during Leaders’ Questions.

Longitude, the music festival recently announced its return in July 2021, an event that typically attracts 40,000 people.

Varadkar today said: “There are now tickets on sale for some major events that we all hope will go ahead next summer…. The advice I would say is that there is no guarantee that those events will go ahead. It might be some time yet before we can attend matches, concerts and mass gatherings.”

He also said that he hopes it is possible in the summer, but that’s far from sure at this point.

“Under the law it is possible for companies organising those events to cancel them and reschedule them. They don’t have to refund the cost of the ticket; they can reschedule them.” He added.

“I think people who are buying a ticket should be aware of that. They’re not guaranteed a refund, they might find the gig rescheduled.” Mr Varadkar said.

Music promoter MCD Productions said yesterday evening that it will continue to offer refunds.

“MCD will continue our policy of offering customers the option of a full refund should a show be rescheduled due to Covid-19. This refund policy applies to all events scheduled to take place in 2020 and 221, including Longitude and Electric Picnic.” It said.

Mr Kelly also asked Varadkar on plans for the distribution of a vaccine, which is expected to begin in January.

As a response the Tánaiste said due to report to the government on 11 December, the taskforce chaired by Professor Brian MacCraith will not decide on the issue of who will be prioritised to receive the vaccine. Instead it will fall to the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC).

“I don’t think it’s going to be rocket science. I think everyone understands that those who will be prioritised will be those who need it the most.” Mr Varadkar said.