Former president of Ireland Mary McAleese launches new Comhaltas Prospectus at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann

Comhaltas launched their Prospectus 2023-2030, ‘Connecting Communities Through Our Culture’ on Friday August 11, during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Mullingar, with an address from former president of Ireland, Mary McAleese.

Ms McAleese is a long-term advocate for Irish culture, both at home and abroad.

The prospectus reflects on the journey of Comhaltas from its foundation in 1951 in Mullingar by a group of Irish culture advocates, to a global network of volunteers who have built communities in 21 countries on five continents.

The prospectus details the evolution of the organisation, and reflects on accomplishments and ambitions and sets out a road-map for the future.

A presentation was made at the ceremony for Ms McAleese and her husband Martin, who, along with his wife, is a great supporter of Comhaltas and Irish culture.

Ms McAleese said: “With this prospectus Comhaltas, have set out their stall as the leading advocates for our artistic cultural heritage where our future prospects are looking good.

“Whatever the future holds, and who can tell, there will be music and dance and bridges forged between old and young, between neighbour and stranger and respect for tradition and joy in innovation and the community that is Comhaltas will be the bedrock.”

Éamonn Ó hArgáin, Uachtarán of Comhaltas, also spoke at the event: “‘Connecting Communities Through Our Culture’ not only describes where we are as a global organisation, but it is the blueprint through which Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann reflect on who we are, where we have been over the last 70 years and where we want to be in 2030 in relation to our role in protecting Ireland’s rich cultural traditions.”

Dr Labhrás Ó Murchú Ardstiúrthóir of Comhaltas, said that the new cultural programme of Comhaltas, as outlined in the 2023-2030 prospectus, is one of the most exciting developments in the cultural movement since the foundation in 1951 in Mullingar.

“The prospectus also has the potential of being one of the most significant cultural programmes in the history of the state.”