Garth Brooks Nixes Dublin

Brooks, Aiken Promotions and Croke Park have been at odds with the city council after it refused to grant permits for the five gigs planned for July 25-29.  Citing the negative impact it would have on the venue’s neighbors, the council only granted permits for shows scheduled to take place July 25-27.

However, Aiken said the special run was a one-off event and that everything, including costs, was geared for five concerts.  Meanwhile, Brooks issued a statement saying “five shows or nothing at all.”  Turns out “nothing at all” won.

From Aiken Promotions:

“It is with great regret that Aiken Promotions today announce that the 5 concert Garth Brooks Comeback Special Event at Croke Park has been cancelled. No concerts will take place.

 “The ticket return process will be outlined tomorrow.

 “Aiken Promotions have exhausted all avenues regarding the staging of this event.

 “We are very disappointed for the 400,000 fans who purchased tickets for The Garth Brooks Comeback Special Event.”

Turns out even three shows were going to be too much, at least for one local resident.  Brian Duff filed an application for an injunction preventing the approved July 25-27 shows, according to RTE.  That application was to be heard by the High Court on Thursday.

The Restaurants Association Of Ireland (RAI) voiced its displeasure regarding the cancellations, saying the “fiasco tarnishes Brand Ireland’s image as a destination to host large international music, sporting and cultural events.”

The shows were expected to bring in €50 million ($68 million U.S.), of which €15 million ($20.4 million U.S.) would go to the restaurant industry, according to RAI.

Brooks is scheduled to hold a press conference on Thursday.  While no other information has been announced, speculation is that he will announce his return to the touring world.  The press conference will stream on GarthBrooks.com.