Galway must start building fund now for €4m Fleadh bid warns Chief Executive

Galway City Council must start building up a fund now if it is serious about a future bid to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, which could cost up to €4 million to stage.

Published 30th Sep 2026, 22:12 BST Musician Gerry Hanley is supportive of a Fleadh bid for Galway City. | Iconic Galway City Council must start building up a fund now if it is serious about a future bid to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, which could cost up to €4 million to stage. Chief Executive Leonard Cleary warned that hosting the major traditional music festival would require a “significant financial contribution” from the local authority and a lead-in time of up to three years.

Mr Cleary said that while he was supportive of the idea, the council “would need to be building up a fund now”.

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“We need to be aware that it is the local Comhaltas that bids for the Fleadh and the local authority supports them,” he said.

“There is very specific criteria in terms of venues and accommodation. The city would benefit but it requires a significant financial contribution from the local authority and a lead-in time of two to three years.

“I am supportive of the idea but we would need to be building up a fund now over the next two to three budgets.”

Galway parking machines cost €245,000 during phase-out as income set to hit €3.35m Galway TD calls for Living Alone Allowance rise after four-year freeze Labour Cllr Níall McNelis said hosting the event would cost between €3-€4 million and would require significant preparation.

“It would have to be a serious bid. We saw what happened in the past when we won something like this.”

The issue was raised by Cllr Shane Forde (FG), who has tabled a motion calling for a joint Galway City and County bid to host a future Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

Independent Cllr Terry O’Flaherty told elected representatives that Galway “had an opportunity years ago” but said it was “during the time of 2020”.

Galway City Council puts €130,000–€160,000 value on Merlin Woods timber Well-known traditional musician Gerry Hanley said there was no reason why Galway could not host the Fleadh.

“Galway has a lot going for it and a number of advantages,” he said.

“But we are stuck for a big venue and perhaps something temporary could be considered.

"It would be a great boost for Galway, but timing would also be a factor, considering the Galway International Arts Festival and the Galway Races.

“I would welcome it and the traditional music world would welcome it too.”