‘This would be amazing’ - Calls for Waterford to host future Fleadh music festival
Waterford Sinn Féin TD David Cullinane addressed the subject in a post on Facebook
Calls have been made for Waterford city to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in the coming years.
Waterford Sinn Féin TD David Cullinane addressed the subject in a post on Facebook this week.
Deputy Cullinane said: “I have written to the Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council asking that we seriously explore the possibility of Waterford making a bid to host a future Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
“The success of the Fleadh in Belfast, and previously in Wexford, has shown the enormous cultural, community and economic benefits it can bring.
“It showcases the very best of Irish music and culture while attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors and providing a major boost for local businesses, tourism and hospitality.”
He outlined Waterford’s music traditions as evidence of being an ideal host for the festival.
“I believe this is a serious proposition that deserves serious consideration.
“Waterford has a rich tradition of traditional music, outstanding musicians, dedicated Comhaltas branches and a proven ability to host major national events.
“We have everything to gain by exploring what would be needed to put together a strong bid.”
Deputy Cullinane went on to highlight the potential benefits that the hosting of the festival would bring to Waterford.
“If Waterford were successful in bringing Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to the Déise, it would be absolutely enormous for our city and county.
“It would be a landmark event that would showcase Waterford on a national and international stage while delivering lasting benefits for our economy, our communities and our cultural heritage.
“It’s an ambitious goal, but ambition is exactly what Waterford needs.
“I’ve asked the council to begin this conversation and I’ll be engaging with other stakeholders to see how we can move this idea forward.”
He concluded by asking his followers on Facebook what they thought of the idea.
The post received a large number of comments, with many people welcoming the proposition.
Deputy Cullinane’s former Director of Elections, Michael Doyle, commented: “100%. This would be amazing for Waterford.
“Ambition needs to be shown now to make it happen. With pedestrianised streets, The Apple Market, Wallace Plaza, Cultural and Viking Quarters and John Robert’s Square - we have an ideal location to make this happen successfully.
“Waterford City and County Council need to establish a planning task force to develop a bid and make this happen!”
Whilst many people welcomed the idea, a few users raised concerns over a potential clash with the Spraoi Festival and All Together Now.