MAYOR OF Wexford Cllr George Lawlor has indicated that Wexford town should be the forerunner in a campaign led by three south eastern counties to secure the title of European Capital of Culture.
Wexford has joined forces with neighbouring counties Waterford and Kilkenny in its upcoming bid; however Cllr Lawlor noted that his hometown was the dominant force in the campaign and should be considered the “lead partner”.
“I am delighted to see that Wexford is involved, but we should be the lead partner,” said the Labour party councillor.
In comparison with Wexford’s impeccable record in terms of hosting a hugely successful annual opera festival, the mayor stated that Waterford’s Light Opera Festival is “now defunct”.
This he described as one of the reasons, which put Wexford ahead of its nearest neighbour in the cultural stakes.
He also suggested that the council should be pressing to host the prestigious traditional Irish music festival Fleadh Ceoil na hEireann in the near future.
“Wexford is highly placed to host the event,” he said.
Cllr Lawlor noted that Selskar Square and Wexford’s quaint narrow streets make the town an ideal location for the festival, which frequently sees musical sessions take place outside.