Couples planning on getting married in 2021 have been left in limbo over whether or not they can have live music at their weddings.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said it is "impossible to say" when restrictions surrounding musicians could be lifted.
The news comes as Cabinet is expected to extend the Level Five lockdown for six weeks, with HSE chief Paul Reid warning; “the phase is advancing into an extremely perilous position for us.”
Many soon to be brides and grooms who had planned to marry in 2020 had already postponed their nuptials to 2021, in hope they could have some form of normality on their big day.
Under current lockdown rules only six guests are allowed to attend weddings.
And now Minister Donnelly has said given that noise levels can force people into close proximity, there will be no easing of restrictions on venues allowing live music as of now.
He said: “In certain settings, such as weddings, higher noise levels due to music, can force people into close proximity, requiring them to raise their voices or shout to communicate thus increasing the risk of spreading the virus to others.
“Under the current public health measures in place for Covid-19 live music is not permitted at weddings.
“It is not possible to say what public health measures will be in place in the future.
“The public health advice relating to Covid-19 is kept under continuing review by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), by my Department and by the Government.
“The measures in place and the public health advice have been adapted to the changing circumstances and this will continue to be the case for the foreseeable future.”
The blow comes to couples after Independent TD Michael McNamara had asked the Minister whether he would consider lifting restrictions on live music at locations hosting weddings.
Mr Donnelly added that the Living with Covid Plan is designed to reduce households mixing and cut down on the virus’ chance of spreading further into homes.
He added: “It seeks to balance the risks of different types of gatherings against the desire to allow normal activities to proceed in so far as possible.”
