First Fleadh in Belfast hailed as ‘unforgettable week’ for the city

By Rebecca Black, Press Association

The first Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to take place in Belfast has been hailed as an “unforgettable week” for the city.

More than a million visitors are estimated to have visited the Northern Ireland capital for the world’s biggest celebration of Irish culture and music.

Music from the loyalist community and ethnic minority communities was also showcased.

The event is to return to Belfast next summer.

Speaking at the closing event at Belfast City Hall on Sunday night, Niall McClean, co-chairman of the organising committee, said the city had shone.

“We’ve brought every single community together – and everybody has absolutely loved it,” he said.

“Belfast has shone, the world has come to our doorstep, bringing the biggest numbers ever seen for a Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.”

The Police Service of Northern Ireland described having conducted “an extremely complex and intensive policing operation” and commended the positivity of the week.

Assistant chief constable Anthony McNally, who led on the policing operation, said there has been “overwhelming positivity”.

“Our officers and staff worked tirelessly to help deliver an event unlike anything previously seen in Northern Ireland,” he said.

The professionalism shown by our officers on the ground, who assisted with the smooth running of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, is a credit to the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the communities they serve.”

He described meticulous planning by police and partner agencies to support the event, including traffic and transport and ensuring the safety of those in attendance.

“It was important that Belfast continued to run as normal but with the additional event management with footfall in excess of one million arriving in the city centre,” he said.

“This was an extremely complex and intensive policing operation, which was ultimately delivered to the highest standards.

“It was clear our officers were warmly received by visitors, spectators and those involved in the events.

“Not only did they minimise any disruption to the city centre, but they certainly added to the overall feel good factor that continues to emanate following Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

“Belfast further positioned itself as a wonderful destination for visitors and further demonstrated its ability to deliver world class events.

“There was overwhelming positivity throughout Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and the Police Service of Northern Ireland, alongside our partner agencies played a vital role in its success.”