Music and dance in the drizzle during the Fleadh Nua in Ennis.
The Fleadh Nua, one of the biggest events in Ireland’s traditional music and dancing calendar ran into a number of problems this year, the main one being the inclement weather,
The rain detracted somewhat from the usual lively street atmosphere, although it didn’t deter everybody.
Organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann outdoor sessions still take place between the showers or wherever shelter can be found. Business is good for the traders and stall holders on the streets of Ennis.
There had been some speculation that the festival would be disrupted by H-Block protestors. The local H-Block action committee held its weekly protest meeting in Ennis without incident, and the Fleadh Nua proceeded as scheduled,
It was music as usual.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 26 May 1981. The reporter is Michael Walsh.
