Will Newry benefit from late night Bus and Train services for Belfast Fleadh?

It's currently not known if Newry is to benefit from additional late-night bus and rail services being put on for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast next month.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins confirmed an enhanced services will operate on Sunday 2 August and from Thursday 6 August to Sunday 9 August but no details on the services are available yet and it's not known if transport to Newry will be included.

The Fleadh is expected to draw over 800,000 visitors to the city, with the additional services designed to ease pressure on the transport network and support the wider traffic management arrangements being put in place. Minister Kimmins said the increased demand on transport services meant the extra late-night options would help people travel safely and conveniently, while supporting Belfast's wider traffic management arrangements.

The Fleadh is one of the largest cultural festivals in Europe and it is the first time Belfast will host it.

Belfast City Council is hosting the event alongside Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and Ards CCÉ. Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly, welcomed the announcement on behalf of the council, saying it was great news for everyone from local residents to tourists who wanted to make the most of the Fleadh experience and enjoy everything the city had to offer into the night.

Cllr Donnelly said the move would also be a welcome boost to local restaurants, music venues and the wider evening economy. She added: "Beidh deis ag lucht freastala ár gcomharsanachtaí a fheiceáil agus fearadh na fáilte rompu istigh. Bíonn an siúlach scéalach!" She said public transport was a key part of the council's traffic and travel plans for the event, and that the enhanced late-night service supported the wider call to move with the rhythm of the Fleadh by leaving the car at home and walking, cycling or taking the bus or train where possible.

Visitors are being encouraged to plan their journey in advance and allow extra time, particularly as road closures and traffic restrictions will be in place in parts of Belfast city centre during the festival. Translink say further information on the additional services will be available on the Translink website at www.translink.co.uk/fleadh but currently no information can be found on Newry plans.