This article is from page 16 of the 2012-04-03 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 16 JPG
THIS year’s Fleadh Nua festival has been billed as a hugely important test of Ennis’ ability to stage large outdoor festivals in light of ongoing efforts to host Fleadh Cheoil Na hEireann.
As part of the 2012 Fleadh Nua, plans have been announced to transform the centre of the town into a large open-air concert. As well as a proposal to use Abbey Street car park for an outdoor concert, there are also plans to pedestrianise parts of the town for the Irish music festival, which runs from May 20 to 28.
Details of Fleadh Nua 2012 were outlined at yesterday’s meeting of Ennis Town Council. Town clerk Leonard Cleary told the meeting that the council would consult with local business and the public on plans for the festival. He explained, “Pedestrianisation during festivals such as Fleadh Nua and indeed generally is designed to enhance the visitor and customer experience of Ennis. The overall aim is to present Ennis in the best possible light to customers in order to maximise business benefits to the economy of Ennis.”
In a report to councillors, Mr Cleary stated that it is important that the success of the Fleadh Nua will be built upon in the future. “Specifically, Ennis Town Council has expressed its high expectations that Comhaltas will lead the goal of achieving the All Ireland Fleadh for Ennis for 2014 onwards for up to three years.”
Fianna Fáil councillor Peter Considine told the meeting that a successful festival would boost Ennis’s bid to land Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann.
He said, “We have to show that we can do concerts well in the town centre. This is the ideal exercise.”
Ennis narrowly missed out on the right to host the 2012 Fleadh while a decision was taken by the local branch of Comhaltas not to bid for the 2013 event.
It has been estimated that up to 200,000 people would visit Ennis for the festival, generating up to € 20 million for the local economy.
Cllr Considine said the Fleadh Nua offers the perfect chance to show what Ennis can do. He added, “The knock on benefits for the following year would be enormous.”
Councillors yesterday approved a grant allocation of € 5,000 for the Fleadh Nua.
This Fleadh has taken place in Ennis every year since 1974. This year’s event will feature 120 different events and is expected to draw visitors from around the world.
Cllr Tommy Brennan (Ind) urged organisers to ensure that street performances from musicians were included in order to enhance the atmosphere of the event.