Issue 194 - Belfast BT6 • BT7 • BT8
Hopes that Fleadh delivers lasting economic boost
Hosting the recent Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 will deliver significant economic, cultural and tourism benefits across the north, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has said.
Pictured at the investment announcement outside Ulster Hall are Chris McCracken, Rob McConnell, David Whyte and Davin McSorley.
ULSTER HALL LIGHTING SCHEME ANNOUNCED LQ BID recently announced an investment of £170k in the Ulster Hall. The project concept – a dynamic, colour-changing LED lighting system – has been initiated by LQ BID and will be installed to further illuminate the venue’s iconic façade to ensure the building’s Victorian architectural features can be fully appreciated year-round. The investment, which includes funding from the BID as well as the Department for Communities (through the Belfast Regeneration Directorate’s Revitalisation Programme), will also
unlock opportunity for Ulster Hall to light up in different colours for civic celebrations and major cultural events, similar to sister venues - Waterfront Hall and Belfast City Hall. Following a public
procurement process led by Belfast City Council, AH Design and EDS Ltd. have been appointed to design and install the scheme respectively. The contractors will work closely with DfC’s Historic
Environment Division to ensure the changes respect the building’s Grade A listed status.
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The Minister was speaking at the official opening of the festival at Belfast City Hall. The Minister said: “It is with immense pride that we welcome visitors, performers and communities from across Ireland and beyond to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026. “With more than 700,000 visitors expected to attend and an estimated economic impact of around £53 million, this landmark event will provide a major boost for our economy, support local businesses and showcase the very best of what we have to offer.” Concluding the Minister
said: “The Fleadh will strengthen our international profile, drive visitor spend and leave a lasting legacy for communities. It promises to be an exceptional week, with world class competitions, vibrant performances and countless informal sessions that form the beating heart of the Fleadh. “I wish everyone involved a successful and enjoyable Fleadh. I look forward to enjoying the music, culture and atmosphere on offer.” Tourism Northern Ireland is supporting the delivery of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026 with £1 million in funding to Belfast City Council.
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Issue 194 - Support Local
Issue 194 - Support Local
Action Cancer Calls on Adventurers to Conquer the Mournes
Local adventurers, from across Belfast and beyond, are being encouraged to take on one of Northern Ireland’s toughest fundraising challenges as Action Cancer’s Seven Peaks Challenge returns on Saturday 12 September 2026. The challenge will see participants conquer the seven highest peaks in the Mourne Mountains during a demanding 10–15 hour trek, raising vital funds to support Action Cancer’s life-saving cancer prevention, detection and support services across Northern Ireland. Among those already signed up are Gary McCullough from Lurgan, who is returning for his second Seven Peaks Challenge after being inspired by his grandfather’s cancer journey, and Joanne Reynolds, advanced skincare specialist and owner of Milk & Honey on Belfast’s Lisburn Road, who recently became an official partner of Action Cancer. Action Cancer is the only charity in Northern Ireland providing free breast screening to well women aged 40–49 and over 70, outside the NHS screening age range, where six breast cancers are detected for every 1,000 women screened. Every £300 raised through sponsorship will help ensure local people can continue to access the charity’s vital services. Gary hopes to honour his grandfather’s memory while helping Action Cancer
L-R Action Cancer Treks and Activities Executive Kelsey O’Donnell is pictured with Joanne Reynolds, owner of Milk & Honey, ahead of this year’s Seven Peaks Challenge. They are encouraging local adventurers to sign up for Action Cancer’s Seven Peaks Challenge on Saturday 12 September 2026.
continue supporting local people affected by cancer. Returning Seven Peaks Challenge participant Gary McCullough said: “Losing my grandfather to cancer had a huge impact on me and my family. Watching what he went through made me want to do something positive in his memory. “Taking on the Seven Peaks Challenge for the second time is my way of honouring him and helping Action Cancer continue the vital work they do for people across Northern Ireland. If my efforts can
help even one family get the support they need, then every step is worth it.” During the challenge, participants will summit all seven of the Mournes’ highest peaks: Slieve Binnian, Slieve Meelbeg, Slieve Meelmore, Slieve Bearnagh, Slieve Commedagh, Slieve Donard and Slieve Lamagan. Registration costs £60, and participants are asked to raise a minimum of £300 in sponsorship, with every pound helping to fund Action Cancer’s cancer prevention, detection and
support services. To register for the Seven Peaks Challenge, visit www.actioncancer. org, email kodonnell@ actioncancer.org, or call 028 9080 3344 (option 2). Places are limited, and final registrations close on Thursday 10 September 2026. Participants are encouraged to undertake appropriate training and ensure they have a good level of fitness before taking part. For more information about Action Cancer’s services, visit www. actioncancer.org.
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