Appendix >> Press Release - 15th July
STATEMENT FROM CPI CONCERT PROMOTERS INTERNATIONAL AND MCD
Issued at 11am on Sunday, 15th July 2007
While the majority of 17,000 fans who saw the legendary Barbra Streisand in concert on Saturday 14th July, at Castletown House, enjoyed the show, promoters regret that some ticket holders were unable to have a great experience at this once in a lifetime event.
This was primarily due to adverse weather conditions, the worst in 100 years which added an extra dynamic to the already difficult driving conditions as a result of major road works on the M50 / N4 despite the implementation of the approved Garda Traffic Management Plan for the event.
Months of planning and consultation with Kildare County Council and An Garda Siochana, combined with an extensive media campaign over the past number of weeks, and the placement of a significant number of full page advertisements in national print and broadcast media including RTE Radio One and RTE 2FM the media partners for the event; to warn concert goers of traffic management strategies, some ticket holders encountered severe traffic jams and car park delays.
In response to the traffic delays, Ms Streisand and promoters delayed her onstage time by 45mins in order to accommodate late arrivals so fans could enjoy the full show. Ms Streisand performed a set which lasted 2 hours including 2 encores.
With 17,000 fans set to see Ms Streisand perform for the first time in Ireland, cancelling the concert was not an option as it would not have been possible to reschedule due to Ms Streisand's touring commitments. It was felt that despite the less than perfect weather and traffic conditions her fans would want the concert to go ahead.
Over 65% of customers who purchased tickets were also directly issued with a special information guide including advice on travel and parking arrangements, public transport and appropriate clothing and footwear. A severe advanced traffic warning was issued to all media outlets and carried on national radio from early Saturday.
Some fans who arrived late to the show encountered problems with their designated seating. This was due to a small number of opportunistic fans taking seats which were not assigned to them and refusing to move when requested by authorities.
We would like to apologise to those who experienced any inconvenience in relation to the above or any other issue and invite any concerned ticket holder to write to; Denis Desmond, Managing Director, MCD, 7 Park Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin where concerns will be dealt with promptly.
ENDS
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