Council support for north Mayo town's bid to host All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil

MAYO councillors will support a bid by Ballina to bring the All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil to the town in 2027.

If successful, it would result in a multi-million boost for the county's economy.

Councillor John O'Hara has tabled a motion on the matter, receiving the full backing of his elected colleagues.

His motion set out: Given the recent success of the Connacht Fleadh, which was hosted in the north of the county, I am asking the support of the full council to bring the 2027 All-Ireland Fleadh to Ballina and Mayo.

The hosting of an All-Ireland Fleadh can attract a physical audience of 500,000 people, with approximately 30% of those attending travelling from overseas. Staging of an All-Ireland Fleadh can generate in the region of €50 million to the local economy and will attract tremendous goodwill and positivity for the county.

I am asking all my fellow councillors to support this proposal and that we send out a strong message that Ballina and Mayo is a serious contender for this All-Ireland event in 2027.

Speaking at the monthly meeting of Mayo County Council, Councillor O'Hara said the Connacht Fleadh had been a tremendous success.

Before they could go ahead with the national bid, they needed the support of the chief executive and councillors.

If successful, it would be beneficial for the whole county and also the borders of Sligo, Councillor Mark Duffy noted.