Sean Quinn to open Leitrim festival today

Former billionaire Sean Quinn will officially open this year's Ballinamore Festival in county Leitrim later today.

Organisers of the event have been explaining why they asked Mr Quinn to officiate at the ceremony.

The Concerned Irish Citizens group say many people indicated that they wanted to hear from the Cavan businessman.

We usually choose somebody who has made a contribution to the community - someone who is well-respected and highly known," explained Maureen Martin, Chairperson of the Concerned Irish Citizens group.

"This year we find that Sean Quinn would a very appropriate person to do it, because he's made a huge contribution … to the northwest. He's made a massive contribution to employment."

Mr Quinn, who was declared bankrupt last year, was sentenced to a jail term in November for contempt of court over attempts to put assets beyond the reach of the Irish Banking Resolution Corporation.

He is due to address the crowd in Ballinamore at 4pm today.