The PSNI gives its backing to Derry’s Fleadh bid

The PSNI has thrown its weight behind the bid to have Derry host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in 2013.
In a statement released last evening, the Police said Such an event would no doubt be enjoyed by many, enhance the city’s image and bring a welcome boost to the local economy.
Meanwhile, Comhaltas Dhoire released detailes of its appeal to the Ulster Council of Comhaltas to refuse Derry’s application on the basis of dissident republican activity in the area.
The threat posed by dissident republicans was given as the reason for Comhaltas to turn down Derry’s bid to host the All-Ireland Fleadh next year.
Following a vote by a standing committee of the Ulster Council at the weekend Comhaltas said it was impossible to support the application because safety was paramount.
However the PSNI says that should not be a concern – in a statement the Police said that any security concerns that exist in Northern Ireland should not prevent the Fleadh taking place in Derry.
In its appeal Comhaltas Dhoire says the Ulster council’s decision was flawed as it was not based on the evidence presented.
They also express disappointed that some members of the County board and the Ulster council have introduced politics into this decision making process which directly contravenes the ethos and constitution
Comhaltas Dhoire has called for an urgent meeting of all parties involved in an effort to rectify the situation in an attempt to salvage the organisations reputation as a whole.