On Sunday 14 August, President Michael D Higgins performed the official opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2016 in Ennis, Co. Clare.
The Fleadh is Ireland's biggest traditional Irish music festival and President Higgins is a regular visitor, as well as Patron, to the festival. In his speech, the President highlighted the importance of Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann in spreading Irish music and culture throughout the world.
