Bid to bring All-Ireland fleadh to Mayo

EXPLORATORY talks should begin to try and bring Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Mayo.

The idea was mooted by Councillor Christy Hyland, who suggested the years 2022 to 2024 be looked at, be it based in Ballina, Castlebar or Westport.

The event, he told the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council, would result in a multi-million euro spend and would be a boost to the whole county.

At the current time of crisis, he wanted the message to go out to businesses that the council is planning ahead.

“We are open for business and promoting the county for the future,” he said.

His proposal was seconded by Councillor Brendan Mulroy.

Noting how Ballina will celebrate its 300th anniversary in 2023, Councillor Annie May Reape suggested it would be ideal to have the fleadh in the north Mayo town.

Ballina was host town for Other Voices last February, which generated an estimated economic benefit of €1,500,000 for the town.