Economy Minister Dr has announced £1m for
this year's Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, which will be hosted in
Belfast this summer.
The financial support from Tourism Northern Ireland to Belfast
City Council will support the successful delivery of the
world-class event, positioning Northern Ireland as a destination
of choice for visitors from across the island of Ireland and
beyond.
Making the announcement, the Minister said: I am delighted to
announce this support of £1m toward the successful delivery of
the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
This flagship event not only showcases the very best of
traditional music and arts, but also brings significant benefits
for local businesses, tourism, and communities right across the
north.
By investing in the Fleadh, we are supporting jobs, attracting
visitors, and ensuring our cultural traditions continue to thrive
for generations to come.
By creating memorable experiences for visitors during the Fleadh
and beyond, we want to inspire people to return again next year
and continue their journey, discovering even more of what makes
this such a unique and special destination.
The Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will take place in Belfast from 2-9
August. More than 400 events will take place as part of the
Fleadh programme including headline concerts, pop-up street
performances and the prestigious All-Ireland competitions.
The funding will be used to help achieve visitor numbers of over
700,000 and support a programme of over 1,000 volunteers who will
not only help deliver a safe and successful event but will also
signpost to careers in the tourism and hospitality industry.
It will also ensure that the economic benefit of delivering an
event of this scale is maximised through attracting international
visitors and enhancing the region's reputation as a destination
for investment and tourism.
Aine Kearney, Director of Events at Tourism Northern Ireland,
said: "The Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will be a celebration and
showcase of our diverse cultures and traditions, while also
providing an opportunity to invite visitors to experience the
exceptional quality and rich diversity of our unique tourism
offering.
"Hosting the Fleadh will bring wide-ranging economic, cultural
and tourism benefits - driving regional spend, enhancing our
cultural profile, and leaving a meaningful and lasting legacy.
"This globally significant event will play a key role in
strengthening our tourism offer and boosting our international
reputation.
"Tourism NI is proud to support an event that embodies the spirit
of togetherness and cultural pride that defines Northern Ireland
as a world-class destination."
Notes to editors:
- More information on this year's Fleadh Cheoil is available at
belfastcity.gov.uk/fleadh
- Tourism NI, a non-departmental body of the Department of the
Economy, is focusing on maximising the opportunities of Belfast
hosting the event through additional activation and marketing
activity inspiring visitors to turn their Fleadh trip into a
`Giant Adventure' by extending their stay to explore beyond
Belfast.
