Letter: After terrorist glorification on final night, it's time to remove Feile an Phobail's funding once and for all

Meanwhile, on the same evening on the nearby Shankill Road, the anniversary of the Bayardo Bar bombing was being commemorated. Some 70 miles away in Omagh that afternoon, communities united as one and gathered to remember victims of the same terrorism there 25 years on from the devastating bomb in 1998 by holding an interdenominational prayer service.

It is my opinion that it is high time that funding was withdrawn for this annual hatefest once and for all. A local group to me called Eastside Arts are listed as a partner on the Feile website. Questions need to be asked there too as to why they are supporting a festival which includes glorification of murder on its finale! I’m pretty sure a concert glorifying loyalist killers wouldn’t be allowed in C S Lewis Square at the annual Eastside Arts Festival. There can be no justification and no sweeping this under the carpet by anyone. I certainly hope we aren't having the same discussions that we have had over the last few years after next year’s event.

I draw comparison to the successful Maiden City Festival in Londonderry which this year celebrated its 25th anniversary with a number of events being held including tea dances, talks, concerts and pageantry, where all involved from all communities had a truly fantastic time. All credit to the organising committee for a job well done.

W J Craig

Belfast