A Co Cork comhaltas group had property stolen and burned, just days before a planned performance before European heads of state.

GATHERINGS may be all the rage for 2013, but the concept is old hat to Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, which has been gathering together musicians from across the Irish diaspora for over 60 years.

Comhaltas Ceoltoirí Éireann is planning to build a €500,000 “centre of excellence” in a Co Cork village which, it is envisaged, will spawn a money-spinning touring Riverdance-type show focusing on ancient Irish music and dance.

Thousands of competitors, family members, and supporters are expected to flock to Ballyvourney next month for Fleadh Cheoil Chorcaí 2013.

Its death warrant may not come into effect until the end of the month, but already the lights are out at the Garda station in Ballyduff in Co Waterford, after it was designated for closure under the Government’s latest plan.

The world of traditional music is opening up to hundreds of Cork children who are getting in tune with flutes, banjos and concertinas.

AN east Clare community is set to benefit from a Sisters of Mercy response to the fall-out from the Ryan report.

COMHALTAS Ceoltoirí Éireann holds its annual Cork City flag day on Saturday.

THOUSANDS ofmusicians are expected to descend on a Cork town next month for one of the largest traditional Irish music festivals of its kind.

The President is hosting a garden party at Arás an Úachtaráin today.

President Mary McAleese begins a three-day official visit to Scotland later this week.

THE roses held by 28 Co Carlow schoolchildren weren’t the only things wilting in the summer sunshine yesterday afternoon.