'Of course we've changed our security plan; the whole of Europe has,' says Electric Picnic chief

Heightened security measures will be in place at Electric Picnic this weekend, according to the festival director.

Festival Republic Chief Melvin Benn said they have been liaising with Gardai in the weeks running up to the biggest music event of the year.

"We've spent a lot of time with all the different agencies talking through likely scenarios and potential scenarios," he said.

"Of course we've changed our security plan. The whole of Europe has changed their security plan in every aspect of everything we do."

Although security will be tighter, Benn hopes that punters won’t be impacted by it.

"I don't think people will notice particularly. The intention is to allow people to come and enjoy themselves.

Around 55,000 people will arrive in Stradbally for the music festival and, like them, Melvin intends to have a good time too.

"I'm actually really looking forward to seeing Duran Duran. I'm very pleased to see them here."

"One thing we haven't announced yet is that Ash is going to be here. They're going to play in Jerry Fish's tent and, to be honest, I'm probably looking forward to that as much as I'm looking forward to anything anything."