JUST DAYS after being given a green light in court, a popular Donegal music festival has had to be cancelled due to the extension of the Government restrictions on mass gatherings.
Organisers have confirmed that the 2020 Buncrana Music Festival has been cancelled.
The news is in light of the decision on Wednesday to extend the restrictions on attendances – 50 indoor and 200 outdoor – until at least August 10.
Just last week, the popular festival was granted a licence to proceed from July 30-August 2 with strict conditions attached.
Judge Paul Kelly granted the application subject to phase four of the Covid-19 regulations being implemented prior to July 30.
This week’s announcement has put paid to those plans.
“As a result of yesterday’s Government announcement in regard to the extension of phase 4 of the reopening roadmap now being pushed out to August 10th, we have had no option but to postpone Buncrana Music Festival until 2021,” a statement read.
“It had been widely expected that larger outdoor gatherings of up to 500 people would be permitted under the state’s reopening roadmap by the 20th of July.
“Unfortunately, due to a national rise in the ‘R’ number, this has been delayed by government and while we are disappointed, we understand fully why these steps have had to be taken.
“At present, we are working with Gavin James and his management, who has committed to performing at Buncrana Music Festival 2021, to establish a date upon which this can happen.
“All tickets for Gavin James and other dates remain valid for next year’s festival, however should you wish to receive a full refund on your tickets purchase you may do so from 9am tomorrow morning from point of purchase.
“If you have purchased you ticket from www.buncranamusicfestival.com , we would ask that you contact us using the contact form on our website, with your order number for a refund, or if you purchased your ticket via Eventbrite, please choose the option in the confirmation email you received when you purchased your ticket.
“The safety of our patrons, staff and artists is of paramount importance to us, and while we regret that the festival will not take place this year, we will back with an even bigger and better festival next year. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy the rest of the summer, stay safe, and we look forward to welcoming you to Buncrana in the near future.”