19 arrested at Fleadh Cheoil in Clonmel

Nineteen people were arrested for public order offences as thousands gathered in south Tipperary for the annual Fleadh Cheoil music festival.

Gardai in Clonmel held the revellers overnight as the 53rd Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann weekend festivities got underway.

A garda spokesman said it would be common for that number of people to be arrested at a major public event.

Some of those arrested were released and will appear before Clonmel District Court in September.

Around 250,000 visitors and 10,000 traditional musicians from across the globe were expected to attend the 150-plus music, singing and dancing compettions.

Some of the performers at the festival, which was officially launched last Friday night, include Liam Clancy, Danu, Michael O’Suilleabhain and Eileen Ivers.