Concerns Raised After Joint Bid For European Capital Of Culture Rejected

Serious concerns have been raised after the European Commission (EC) rejected Belfast and L'Derry's joint bid to become the European Capital of Culture in 2023.

The European Commission (EC) wrote to the UK government and stated that after the withdrawal from the European Union (EU) the UK could not take part.

Alliance Councillor Emmer McDonagh Brown described the decision as another "unintended consequence".

He said: "This has gone beyond Civil Servants and we need clear. While we don't know what our relationship with the EU will look like in the wake of Brexit, we need to strengthen our cultural ties now to protect them for the future.

"Of course this will be of little comfort to the many that have put time and effort into our bid, which will still see a strengthening connection between Belfast and Derry-Londonderry as plans for joint culture ventures move forward.

"Despite this the DUP and other pro-Brexit politicians have questions to answer - including how they can still support a Brexit that sees opportunity after opportunity potentially snatched away from Northern Ireland."

Two SDLP councillors have called for an urgent joint meeting of councillors and officials to address the decision.

Cllr Martin Reilly said: "An immense amount of preparatory work has already gone into the joint bid to bring the European Capital of Culture title to Derry and Belfast.

"In an effort to boost both regions and demonstrate positive cooperation across the North, our councils have been working closely on this collaborative bid. It presented a real opportunity economically, politically and culturally.

"It's critical that both councils now come together to make the case for a special dispensation for this bid. We must remain united."

Cllr Tim Attwood said: "The European Commission decision is extremely disappointing but it should not be the death knell for what would be a significant celebration of our common culture.

"The EU has demonstrated a unique understanding of our circumstances. I firmly believe that our two councils can come together and present a powerful case for a special consideration of our bid.

"This is a time for unity and a time for action. We're calling for an urgent special meeting of both councils to take this forward."

(CD/LM)