By Dan Walsh at the opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 in Wexford town
President Michael D. Higgins was warmly received in Wexford on Sunday, where he launched Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and was honoured by the people of Co. Wexford as he prepares to retire after 14 years in Aras an Uachtaráin.
Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr Joe Sullivan speaking from the Gig Rig said; “The most important people we have here today are our President Michael D. Higgins and his wife, Sabina, who today are officiating at their last Fleadh as President and First Lady of our country.”
“I would like to thank you, President Higgins, on behalf of all the people here today for gracing us with your presence, as you also did in 2024,” said Cllr Sullivan, who added; “On behalf of the people of Wexford, particularly and indeed all of Ireland, I would like to thank you for a lifetime of service to our country in the fields of academia, politics and latterly, President.
“During a lifetime of representing people, you have always championed the cause of the vulnerable, the marginalised and the downtrodden and for this, we sincerely thank you, and I, on behalf of the people of Wexford and Ireland would like to wish you, President Higgins and your wife, Sabina, a long, happy and healthy retirement when your period of office concludes in a few weeks on November 11th.”
Cllr Sullivan called for a rousing Wexford welcome for President and Mrs Sabina Higgins and the thousands packed along Wexford Quay responded with loud applause and prolonged cheering.
During his speech President Higgins said; “As President of Ireland over the past 14 years it has given me such great pleasure to witness so many young people use our native language and, indeed, the number of young people who have spoken Irish to me.”
President Higgins also gave some interesting figures. He said that last year’s (2024) event in Wexford was the largest event (Fleadh Cheoil) to date with up to 650,000 people visiting Wexford Town over the course of the eight-day festival.
“This included 20,000 performers, 7,000 of whom were competitors,” said President Higgins, who added; “The reviews from the hardened Fleadh goers from all over the world, were outstanding.”
It is important to be aware of the Shuttle Bus services running until August 10th.
Yellow – Park & Ride: Carcur Road
Blue – Park & Ride: Ardcavan
Purple – Park & Ride: Racecourse / Barntown
Brown – Park & Ride: Clonard Little
Orange – Park & Ride: IDA / Drinagh North
White – Campsite Shuttle
There are extra bus services in and out of festival.Wexford town from Bus Éireann Expressway and Iarnród Éireann has put on 50 extra rail services for the duration of the Fleadh.
WexfordLocal.com 