Tag Archives: Fleadh Cheoil

BRvFa_2CUAAbXao.jpg largeBRt1chwCAAE1ptt.jpg largeBR8fJ4OCIAE_P5m.jpg large

An estimated 430,000 people enjoyed the biggest ever Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Derry over the last week where orange and green played in a trouble-free atmosphere.

Why is there such a contrast between Derry’s Fleadh and Belfast’s Flegs?

Steven McCaffery writing in The Detail may have an answer:

But there will be lots of discussion about why Derry is broadly dealing better with cultural tensions than other areas – it is at least showing what is possible and providing an example to learn from.

Recent figures show that the Catholic and Protestant populations are balancing-out in Northern Ireland which, regardless of the failings of politics, provides its own dynamic towards the ultimate emergence of a shared future.

These are times that demand a live-and-let-live attitude. Flexibility is called for. Dialogue is required.

The message of the Fleadh is simple: we need a change of tune.

As the peace process struggles, why is Derry different? (Steven McCaffery, The Detail)

Pics via Keiron Tourish, Ryan