The Irish Shows Association (ISA) has released a statement recommending its members’ shows not run in 2021.

At present, the Republic of Ireland remains under Level 5 restrictions. Even at Level 1 in the current framework, the maximum number of people permitted for an outdoor gathering is 200-500. This would not be viable for most shows.

The ISA has stated that it “remains committed to getting shows back on our calendars” but understand this will be a long and difficult road.

“The ISA will continue to advocate on behalf of its members to obtain clear guidance on when and how shows can return. Like so many other event organisers and community groups, the ISA and its member shows find themselves in limbo waiting for a clear roadmap to emerge.”

The €600,000 in funding awarded to the ISA in 2020 from the Department of Rural and Community Development is still ringfenced for 2021 shows if they are able to run.

The ISA will not be printing a yearbook this year, but any shows that are able to run will be published on the ISA website once they are confirmed.

For the shows that are unable to run this year, the association is advising them to keep in touch with the ISA and plan for 2022.

The ISA will not be printing a yearbook this year, but any shows that are able to run will be published on the ISA website once they are confirmed.

For the shows that are unable to run this year, the association is advising them to keep in touch with the ISA and plan for 2022.