L'Derry Fleadh 'Largest Ever'

L'Derry's hosting of the All-Ireland Fleadh has been the largest in the festival's history, with almost half a million people joining in the celebrations.

More than 430,000 people attended Fleadh events over the course of the week, with no major incidents reported.

Derry City Council says the Fleadh's success was "a result of partnership working between Fleadh organisers, statutory agencies in Derry, thousands of volunteers and the cooperation of local communities."

Fleadh chairperson Eibhlin Ni Dhochartaigh said the Fleadh had been a phenomenal success: "We were confident that Derry could deliver a good Fleadh but it is clear that we have delivered a great Fleadh. It has exceeded everyone's expectations.

"Derry has done itself proud and I am so proud of the people of this city and the way they have embraced the Fleadh. All communities in the city have got behind this and shared in our celebrations, truly making it a Fleadh for everyone.

"The response from the public has been phenomenal and it sends out a message to the world that Derry has delivered a fantastic Fleadh.

"It will go down in the long history of Comhaltas as one of the best Fleadheanna ever."

Derry City Mayor, Councillor Martin Reilly, added: "This event has been a phenomenal success for the City and many a first has been achieved this week both in terms of the city hosting an event of this scale and one which has exceeded all expectations in terms of visitors to the city. To say that I am proud of how the City has been showcased is an understatement.

"In waving goodbye to Fleadh Cheoil and all the visitors and locals who enjoyed the event, I want to take the opportunity to thank all the organisers and support agencies who worked tirelessly in bringing and delivering this remarkable event including a wide number of volunteers who gave their time.

"The City has a renewed sense of civic pride and can boast hosting a safe and enjoyable event one which has been embraced with community and business support. I want to extend an open welcome to those who were first time visitors to Derry to return with family and friends and experience all of what this great city has to offer."

PSNI District Commander Chief Superintendent Stephen Martin said: "Once again Derry has demonstrated its ability to host major events, attract international names in music and culture and showcase the breadth and variety of talent that exists within the city itself. As a Police Service we are delighted to have played a part in that success.

"This week has allowed us to engage with a huge number of people, many of them first time visitors to the city and to Northern Ireland. I know that our Irish speaking officers attracted a lot of attention and for them it was a great opportunity to brush up on their language skills and open up yet another channel of engagement. The PSNI pipe band played on Thursday afternoon and went down a storm, receiving a wonderful and enthusiastic welcome."

(IT/JP)