Promoters must pay concert policing costs - Labour

The cost of policing concerts and public events should not be borne by taxpayers, the Labour Party today claimed.

Justice Minister Michael McDowell revealed recently that promoters only paid 20% of the Garda bill for last year’s Madonna gig at Slane Castle.

Labour warned that the Government must not allow ordinary taxpayers foot the cost of such services.

Justice spokesman Joe Costello TD, asked: “Why should the taxpayer be forced to cover security costs and promoters get away with such a piecemeal contribution?

“Concert-goers are already paying through the nose to see international acts.

“With the huge profits that promoters – often operating in a near monopolistic fashion – generate from such events, it is clear that once again the public is being exploited.”

Mr Costello pointed out that AIB and the Bank of Ireland, committed themselves to meeting virtually the full cost for the security escorts provided by the state for cash in transit.

“If banks must now pay almost 100% for state security services, why not concert promoters?

“There is little justification for promoters ducking this obligation,” he added.

The party called for current regulations to be changed so taxpayers do not pay for Garda services inside concert venues.

“Garda resources are already stretched, and vital money that could be used in the fight against crime is being wasted in providing free security services for those who are in a clear position to pay for it themselves,” he said.