French festivals ‘could be cancelled’ during 2024 Paris Olympics
France’s Interior Ministry has warned events may need to be cancelled or moved due to the large number of police officers required at the Olympics
The Olympics has been estimated to require the presence of 30,000 police officers and gendarmes to the detriment of other events
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Festival organisers and local politicians have spoken of their concerns after it was revealed that cultural and sporting events could be “cancelled or delayed” during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, questioned by the senate, said the Olympics would require the presence of 30,000 police officers and gendarmes, to the detriment of other events usually held between July 26 and August 11.
Paul Molac, an MP from Brittany, home to events such as Les Vieilles Charrues music festival, said: “The organisation of the Paris Olympics cannot come at the expense of our regions’ cultural vitality.
“Such constraints could have long-lasting effects on the durability of certain events.”
The culture minister met representatives of the largest festivals, including Les Vieilles Charrues, in November to discuss potential solutions.
The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region has already promised organisers and towns €2million towards security costs to help events go ahead.
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