A pipe band association dragged into a DUP council funding controversy say they are “delighted” to share Bangor with a Fleadh Cheoil event on the same day.

The statement comes in the wake of claims by a lone DUP councillor that council funding for the event would create “ill feeling” in the area.

The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Northern Ireland Branch issued a statement warmly welcoming plans for both their Ulster Championships and the Fleadh Fringe to take place simultaneously on Saturday 1 August 2026.

“We are delighted to see the potential of two vibrant cultural gatherings taking place in Bangor on the same day,” the Pipe Band Association said.

“This is a fantastic reflection of Ards and North Down’s rich cultural fabric and the diversity of our community.”

The statement added: “Whether it is the stirring skirl of the bagpipes or the uplifting energy of Irish folk music, these two musical traditions offer something for everyone and bring people together in celebration.”

Earlier this week, the TUV lodged a formal equality impact complaint and a DUP councillor warned the funding issue would “create ill feeling”.

The TUV complaint claimed the Pipe Championships were “playing second fiddle” to the Fleadh and repeated an erroneous claim in the media that the Irish music event was receiving twice the budget.

Council documents show the Pipe Bands event has a budget of £36,700, while the Fleadh Fringe has up to £40,000, subject to rates setting and procurement.

At last week’s Place and Prosperity Committee meeting, Newtownards DUP Councillor Colin Kennedy warned people were being “bounced into” the decision, saying: “Without bringing the people of Ards and North Down along with us, you are going to inevitably create ill feeling from some groups and organisations.”

However, the Pipe Band Association emphasized their collaborative approach, stating: “The Branch is proud to work with Ards and North Down Borough Council again and is pleased to bring our flagship Ulster Championships to Bangor this year.”

This year’s championships will move from Castle Park to Ward Arras Park, following the success of hosting The United Kingdom Pipe Band Championships there in 2024. A traditional end-of-day parade of bands and drum majors is still being planned.

The main Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will take place in Belfast from August 2-9, with at least 700,000 visitors expected.

Outlining the reasoning for the Fleadh fringe event, a council officer report to an Ards North Down Council committee states: “Due to the local connection, Belfast City Council colleagues have been in contact with the Chief Executive to inform on planning stages of the event and to highlight the opportunities that will be afforded to the borough due to the proximity of the event.”

A spokesperson for Ards and North Down Borough Council told The Irish News: “We consider the hosting of both the Fleadh Fringe and the Ulster Pipe Band Championships events as a significant opportunity for Bangor and the wider Borough.

“A day of traditional musical excellence through the combination of both prestigious events is expected to attract thousands of visitors to Bangor, boost footfall and drive economic activity, showcase Bangor’s cultural vibrancy and renowned hospitality, and provide the potential for attendees to stay in tourism accommodation in Ards and North Down.”