The continued ban on live music is like "a stab in the heart" for musicians, the singer of a well-known Irish wedding band has said.
Spring Break's James Hazlett says the support from the Government has been "abysmal", and many musicians are "in a really dark place" due to the continued restrictions.
He was speaking ahead of the Government unveiling its roadmap for the reopening of entertainment and live events.
However, guidelines issued by Fáilte Ireland yesterday confirmed that a ban on live music in pubs and restaurants will continue at least temporarily when they're allowed reopen for outdoor dining from June 7th.
James said he can't believe the Government isn't showing "a little bit of creativity" to get musicians back to work safely.
He said: “There’s a happy compromise there - when you could have seated live events… acoustic events… limited capacity.
"But this notion that we just have a complete blanket ban… I just think it’s so unhelpful right now, and it’s a real kick in the teeth for all musicians, performers and entertainers."
James said officials should instead be working to set up outdoor stages in the likes of parks to allow musicians perform again.
He said the process doesn't need to "break the bank", but just offer musicians a small payment so they can start getting back to work again.
James said he's sought out other work just to have some structure in his life again.
He said: "I was lucky enough to get a job in a diagnostic plant in Sligo, a factory job.
“I could have sat and continued to get the Pandemic Unemployment Payment. I don’t want to do that. I want to get back out.”
The singer also noted the last year has very much taken a toll on the mental health of himself and others.
He said: "When you’re involved in the music industry… it’s part of who you are. I’ve lost a part of my identity over the last year and a half. I’ve really struggled mentally.
“So many of my colleagues are in a really dark place… it just feels really hopeless.”
