Credit Union are sponsors of 2018 Fleadh Cheoil

THE Credit Union service in Drogheda and Dundalk have joined forces with a group of credit unions across Louth, Meath and North Dublin to fund the sponsorship of the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann 2018 in Drogheda.

“The Credit Union” has been announced as the main sponsor of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann which will take place this summer from 12th – 19th August. Both Drogheda and Dundalk Credit Unions celebrate their 50th anniversaries this year and have been strong supporters of Fleadh Drogheda from the outset, forming a collaborative group of Credit Unions that also includes Ardee Credit Union, Duleek Credit Union, Dunleer Credit Union and Progressive Credit Union from North Dublin to support and sponsor the biggest family festival in the country.

Sponsoring the massive community event that is Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann ties in with the credit unions’ not-for-profit ethos and role at the very heart of communities all over Ireland.

Tom Kiely, CEO Drogheda Credit Union said “Drogheda Credit Union are delighted to support our community on what is to be the biggest event ever hosted in the town of Drogheda.”

Commenting further on the announcement, Geraldine Gilsenan, Chairperson of Drogheda Credit Union Ltd said “We are excited to be on board as main sponsor of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018. We have strong ties with our communities so it is great to be able to engage with such a huge event. People in our Trim & Bettystown communities and across the counties of Louth, Meath and North Dublin are also gearing up for an amazing treat of seven days and nights of music, dancing, singing and craic.”

Billy Doyle, CEO of Dundalk Credit Union said “Dundalk Credit Union are thrilled that “The Credit Union” will be the main sponsor of Fleadh Cheoil na Éireann 2018. The Fleadh is the biggest celebration of Irish music and culture and we are very excited to support this unique and memorable community event as part of our 50th anniversary celebrations. This is the first year in its history that the Fleadh has come to Co. Louth and we have no doubt it will be a wonderful event for all ages to enjoy.“

Welcoming the sponsorship deal the Chief Executive of Louth County Council, Joan Martin said, “Louth County Council are very much looking forward to working with “the Credit Union” as we prepare to welcome Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Drogheda. “The Credit Union” is a perfect fit as a main sponsor given its exemplary track record in supporting ordinary people, community initiatives and local organisations not just in Louth but across the country.”

This is the first time in many years that the Fleadh will be held on the east coast of Ireland and the local economy is set to benefit to the tune of €40million.

400,000 visitors are expected to attend the week-long festival in August, with 30% of people expected to travel from overseas to enjoy the festivities on offer.

The official launch of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann takes place this week in Drogheda.