Miltown Malbay businesses are reaping a bountiful harvest at the Willie Clancy Week.
The legendary Irish traditional music festival is once again bringing thousands of people to the West Clare town and providing a welcome boost to the local economy.
When first set up in 1973 shortly after the death of the celebrated Moy uilleann piper, having a thriving nine-day musical event in Miltown Malbay was nothing short of a pipe dream.
Now celebrating its 54th year, Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy is a staple of the traditional music calendar with a lasting appeal and an evergrowing attendance.
While the workshops, recitals, lectures, céilís and sessions remain central to the festival’s offering, the patronage it provides to the town’s pubs, restaurants and shops is an appreciated added benefit.
Mickey Wilson of Friel’s Pub says it’s by far the biggest week of the year for them.
There was some concern expressed when it was announced that parking restrictions would be in effect along the Main Street for the first time.
A free car park is operating on the Ennis Road beside Jones’s Supervalu, and the West Clare Municipal District has also put portaloos and bins in place across the town.
David Hillery of Hillery’s Bar believes the new measures have been a success.
The week is a godsend for many businesses right across the West Clare region where economic activity can be slow in the winter months.
Irene Burden of the Old Bakehouse Restaurant says the recent VAT rate reduction will be a help.
It’s not just local businesses benefitting from the festival – many casual traders come to Miltown every July to ply their trade.
Paraic McNeela of McNeela Music in Dublin has been setting up shop on the Main Street for 37 years where he sells all manner of instruments as well as accessories and CDs, while also carrying out repairs and maintenance for those in need.
He says while it’s been a profitable week, the most enjoyable aspect is reconnecting with old friends.
Listen to the full interview here
