07/08/2026
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Yesterday, Cllr Sarah Bunting, from my office, raised concerns with the Fleadh organisers after music glorifying the IRA was repeatedly played from the Hatch, specifically playing a chant of “Ooh, ah, up the ’R*.”
The Fleadh organisers subsequently issued a response stating that this was “not what we want to see or hear” and stressing that they have worked hard to ensure the event is welcoming to everyone and respectful of all cultures. In doing so, they recognised that what occurred was neither welcoming nor respectful.
I welcome their response.
It is particularly important to recognise the sensitivities surrounding the glorification of the IRA in Belfast. The anniversary of the Bloody Friday, massacre has just passed, where 19 IRA bombs exploded across the city in the space of an hour, killing nine people and injuring approximately 130, including in the vicinity where this music was played on loop.
The IRA killed more people during the Troubles than any other single organisation. Its victims included civilians from all backgrounds.
There can be no place for the glorification of terrorism anywhere especially an event intended to welcome people from across the community.
