Motion no: 25
Performing artists such as cabaret artistes, comedians, stage management and singers can be vulnerable when working at entertainment venues, especially when working alone. Their work can include leaving venues late at night, parking and loading out in insecure locations with expensive and/or cumbersome equipment and a lack of personal security. Safety can be a particular concern in areas of Northern Ireland that are more remote or have poor public transport links.
Equity’s Safe Home campaign calls on venues in Northern Ireland to safeguard performing artists who work at night or in vulnerable locations here, including a commitment to accompany artists to their ongoing transport and to confirm payment for travel in contracts.
This issue extends to those working in the night-time economy who need public transport provision which is safe, extensive and affordable so they can have the best opportunities to work and earn. This in turn will support the growth of the night-time economy. Equity supports the provision of safe, public transport in the later hours, enabling workers to not only get home safe whether in their own towns and cities but also between towns and cities, later into the evening.
Conference calls, therefore, on the Irish Congress of Trades Union to lobby for safe, extensive and later night public transport links to be provided throughout Northern Ireland so workers can get home safe whilst contributing to the growth of the night time economy.
