23 October 2026
The SDLP has backed a bid to bring a third year of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Belfast, saying the Fleadh had showcased the very best of Belfast and represented a unique opportunity to continue building on the city's growing reputation as a leading destination for arts, culture and major events.
SDLP Group Leader Councillor Séamas de Faoite said:
"The Fleadh showed Belfast at its very best. It gave us a glimpse of the future we are building together, a Belfast where people come together in huge numbers to celebrate our culture, and the promise of possibility.
"The economic, cultural and social impact of the Fleadh exceeded all expectations. It transformed Belfast for a fortnight, packed our streets and venues, showcased the richness of our cultural life and attracted 1.6million visitors to the city."
"That is why the SDLP formally suggested to the Council Chief Executive back in August that Belfast should pursue a bid for a third year. We welcome the decision to take that work forward and look forward to seeing a strong bid developed.
"Alongside pursuing another year of the Fleadh, we in the SDLP are actively exploring opportunities to attract other landmark events to Belfast, including making the case for the return of the MTV Europe Music Awards.
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP said:
"The Fleadh has been one of the greatest success stories Belfast has seen in recent years. It brought people together, generated enormous civic pride and opened our city up to visitors from across Ireland and beyond.
"This is a huge opportunity for Belfast's arts and culture sector and one that simply cannot be ignored. The success of the Fleadh has demonstrated what can be achieved when we are ambitious for our city and prepared to think big.
"The Fleadh showed us what a future Belfast can look like: a confident, outward-looking city that celebrates its culture, welcomes the world and brings people together.
“Cities that succeed are those with the ambition to back themselves, and Belfast has proven what it can achieve when it does. Now we need to match that success with the confidence to go even further."