A proposal for Westport to stage the Fleadh Cheoil within the next three years to add to the busy festival and events calendar that is turning the town into an even bigger tourist haven worldwide was raised at Westport Town Council’s monthly meeting last week.
Following the proposal by Councillor Christy Hyland, seconded by party colleague Cllr Ollie Gannon, councillors were informed that the local branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann would need to bid for the event. However, management confirmed that such a proposal would receive the backing of the council.
Cllr Margaret Adams, who said that she also made such a proposal some years ago, warned that it would be a large undertaking that would cost thousands to host.
In relation to other festivals in the town, Cllr Michael McLaughlin said that the Westport Arts Festival had huge potential, however, unlike the Get Out There Festival which was a great success, “it was not hitting the mark”, he said. Cllr Hyland agreed the arts festival was not achieving its potential. Cllr Keith Martin contended the festival was a “progressive, avant garde festival” which was achieving a lot through the use of volunteers.
Cllr Myles Staunton said that the arts festival had “massive potential”, and was given extra funding this year from amenity grants to help the festival achieve its full potential.
Cllr Staunton also suggested that festivals should be spread out throughout the year to prolong the tourist season, while Cllr Hyland suggested that a full-time person should be employed to promote festivals in Westport.
The Cathaoirleach of the council, Cllr Tereasa McGuire, said that if festivals receive financial support from the town council, there needs to be accountability, and organisers need to address the council.
Martin Keating, senior executive officer, said that the Get Out There Festival “exceeded expectations” and that a strategic analysis of festivals in town will take place for next year with a large focus on what tourists want.”
