“It carried with it the hopes and dreams of an Irish Republic. It demonstrated that a dedicated few can break the might of the British Empire.

Yet last weekend was one of the most politically significant of my lifetime.  Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann was held in Belfast. This is a festival of Irish music, dance and culture. The Fleadh is centred around competitions and draws Irish musicians and dancers from across Ireland and internationally. Outside of competitions, there are gigs, impromptu music sessions, and classes.