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Slane may get 2d U2 concert

February 16, 2011

By Staff Reporter

By Andrew Bushe

DUBLIN — Following pleas from thousands of disappointed fans and U2’s lead singer Bono, the Irish government plans to fast-track changes in the planning laws that could open the door to a second Irish concert this summer.

When 80,000 tickets for a concert in Slane Castle in County Meath were made available earlier this month, they were sold out in about 45 minutes. Gardai had to be called to maintain order in queues at some outlets.

Promoters MCD said Slane had been chosen because it was the biggest venue in the country, but the demand for tickets was such that they could have sold 250,000.

After hearing about fans going home emptyhanded, Bono made a radio plea to the government to change strict planning laws. Only one concert a year is allowed at Slane.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern intervened to say the planning system was "not the appropriate vehicle" to consider applications for outdoor events.

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"That was the reason we included in the new Planning and Development Act a more appropriate licensing system which will cover a wide range of events, including concerts such as those held at Slane, and which will shorten the decision making process."

Environment Minister Noel Dempsey, who was heading for the San Francisco St Patrick’s Day celebrations, issued a statement from Halifax, Nova Scotia, saying he was "more than happy" to bring forward work on introducing the new licensing system.

"Enhancing he decision making powers of local authorities, while maintaining the right of public input, can only be a positive development."

A government spokesman said the licensing system would be introduced by statutory regulations "at the earliest possible date."

The regulations can only be formally made when the Dail and Seanad have passed resolutions approving them.

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