Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann - the musical wing of the IRA

E332 - Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann - the musical wing of the IRA

Published: January 15, 2026

Duration: 44:20

In August Belfast will host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. More than half a million people will visit the city from around the world for the festival which is a global event. Last year nearly a million people attended the Fleadh in Wexford.

But be warned. All this music and culture is not what it appears. A DUP councillor has warned that a spin off event in Bangor has potential to cause ‘ill feeling’ because it takes place on the same day as the Ulster Championships for Pipe Bands.

On Free State today Joe and Dion...

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann - the musical wing of the IRA - Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning