Wexford states case to visiting Fleadh Cheoil 2020 delegation
WEXFORD GOT the chance to set out its stall, in the hope of hosting the 2020 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, when a delegation from Leinster Comhaltas paid a recent visit to the town.
Craobh Loch Garman/Wexford Comhaltas and Wexford County Council welcomed the delegation who heard from the bid committee during the course of the day which, falling during the Opera Festival, meant that the visitors were greeted by the sight of a busy and bustling town.
Following refreshments at Wexford County Council’s building, the delegates were brought by Wexford Bus around the various schools which could serve as competition venues, the proposed site for the 2,000 seater dome, the quay front where the gig rig and Fleadh TV would be situated, camp sites and caravan parks, car parks, access routes, etc.
They were given a tour of the National Opera House by operations manager Aisling White while Maura Bell at the Irish National Heritage Park rolled out the green carpet and laid on a tasty lunch for the party. The guests were entertained by a trio of young Comhaltas Loch Garman harpists.
Council CEO Tom Enright welcomed the delegates and spoke of Wexford’s ability to host major events. He outlined some of the big infrastructural projects presently underway in the county and, along with Director of Services John Carley, said the Council was committed to the effort to bring the Fleadh to Wexford.
Also present to speak with the delegation were Cllr Ger Carthy, local branch chairman Paddy Berry, Garda Inspector Denis Whelan, Acting Civil Defence Officer Peter O’Connor, chairman of Wexford Comhaltas Michael Murphy, and Brendan Crowley of Wexford Bus.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Leinster secretary Millie Fitzpatrick expressed her appreciation to the group for organising the day and making everyone so welcome.
Lolo Robinson of Drogheda’s Fleadh Executive Committee said that Drogheda has learned so much from organising this year’s Fleadh and that they would be happy to share this knowledge.
Leinster Comhaltas will vote at its December meeting on the town it would like to see hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2020. Their decision, along with that of the other provinces, then goes forward to Comhaltas Ardchomhairle which votes on the host town at its meeting in March 2019.