Malahide upbeat following Pipe Band announcement

BANDS from all over Ireland and overseas will be marching to a different tune next year when the 71st All-Ireland Pipe Band Championships take place in Malahide.

It’s estimated that up to 5,000 people will attend the major event and spend at least

?¬500,000 in the local economy.

In July 2016, approximately 80 bands from across Ireland, the UK, Canada, the US and Australia are due to travel to north county Dublin for the championships.

Chairman of the Irish Pipe Band Association (IPBA) Gavin Richardson said he is delighted that Fingal County Council is supporting the return of the championships to the area after an absence of 24 years.

“The All-Ireland Pipe Band Championships is the premier event for Piping, Drumming and Drum Majors in Ireland, showcasing individuals and bands from every county, all competing for the title of All-Ireland Champion,

? he said.

“Hosting this prestigious event in Malahide would not be possible without the support of Mayor of Fingal David O’Connor, Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF), Fingal chief executive Paul Reid and staff of Fingal County Council.

“I would like to thank them most sincerely for their support.

?

Mayor of Fingal David O’Connor also expressed his delight at the plans.

“We look forward to giving all the bands from Ireland and abroad a great Fingal welcome,

? he said.

Senator Darragh O’Brien described it as a huge announcement for Malahide and the entire north county Dublin area.

“The announcement follows several meetings I had with the Irish Pipe Band Association, which involved showcasing Malahide as the perfect venue for the event,

? he said.

“The benefits for Fingal will be significant.

?