Robinson and McGuinness welcome Derry/Londonderry Fleadh bid success

First Minister the Rt. Hon. Peter D. Robinson MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA have welcomed the decision of the Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann to stage the 2013 All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Derry/Londonderry.
~ Saturday, 28 January 2012

The city beat off competition from Ennis and Sligo at today's meeting of the organisation's central executive in Dublin to win the right to host the prestigious event next year.

Welcoming the decision the First Minister said; "This is a vote of confidence in Londonderry and it will generate significant cultural and economic benefit to the city and surrounding areas. It is a proud and historic city with a rich heritage and the hosting of this event will be one of the highlights of the UK City of Culture celebrations. I congratulate the bid team on their success and wish them every success in the hosting of the event."

The deputy First Minister said; "This is a great day for Derry and the north and I wish to thank all those who have played a part in securing this outcome. I commend Comhaltas for this leap of faith in the city - it was no doubt a difficult decision but Derry had a compelling bid. There have been one or two hurdles along the way but that is behind us and now is the time for everyone to work together to ensure that this is be a Fleadh which will live long in the memory."

Notes to editors

1. The All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil was first held in 1951. This is the first time it will be held in Northern Ireland.
   
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