The loss of the Garth Brooks concerts “will make other acts think twice before scheduling events” in Ireland and could impact on the State’s application to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
This is the warning from Independent Galway West TD Noel Grealish. He believes Ireland’s capacity to attract and host large events has been called into question by Garth Brooks decision not to play any concert in Ireland - following the granting of a licence for only three out of the five shows the US country singer was due to play in Croke Park.
“The decision by Garth Brooks to cancel is hugely embarrassing to Ireland Inc as a brand,” he said. “It cannot be the case that a small minority of individuals can hold the country to ransom.”
He said the issue goes beyond “400,000 disappointed fans” and the loss of €50 million to the economy.
“This is hugely damaging to Ireland’s international reputation and in particular our ability to host large scale concerts or even international sporting events,” he said.
Dep Grealish calls for urgent intervention of An Taoiseach Enda Kenny and he has proposed the passing of emergency laws through Dáil Éireann to solve the matter.
