Fledgling club Ballyhoura Comhaltas will be bidding to host the Limerick Fleadh Cheoil in 2017 – a move, which if successful, could bring 5,000 people to Kilfinane.

This is a bold move considering Ballyhoura Comhaltas was only set up in August of 2015, but they already have over 100 members and the county administration admires their enthusiasm and drive.

Chairperson of Ballyhoura Comhaltas, Ciara Flanagan, explained that in order to put in a bid to host the event, a town must have 14 venues and 120 volunteers.

Kilfinane ably meets this requirement, while the refurbished Church of Ireland would bring a unique and different venue into the mix.

The group held a public meeting last week, in order to gauge public interest in hosting the Fleadh.

“There was a good representation from the business people and the public. There was a lot of support for the bid.”

“It was all very positive and the businesses want it and everyone is looking forward to the possibility of bringing the 2017 Fleadh Cheoil to Kilfinane,” Ciara told The Avondhu.

Ballyhoura Comhaltas will have to have their proposal in place by the end of August.

Ciara explained that the businesses in the town have been extremely supportive of the Ballyhoura Comhaltas since it was set up, helping them get started on day one.

If the branch is successful in its bid, hosting the Fleadh would be a nice way to give back to these businesses and thank them for their support and help.