Derek Moore, flautist with the William King Memorial Flute Band from Derry's Fountain area, chaired the Londonderry Bands Forum in 2013 when the Fleadh Cheoil occurred in Derry for the first time north of the border.

Moore organised engagement between Protestant, Unionist and Loyalist bands and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. Several bands took part in the music and culture event that year.

The Caw Flute Band, Burntollet Sons of Ulster Flute Band, Pride of Orange and Blue Flute Band, Churchill Flute Band and William King Memorial Flute Band performed in the official programme during Derry's City of Culture year.

Protestant bands from Northern Ireland joined the Fleadh in Sligo in 2014.

A bands forum formed in Belfast works with Belfast City Council before the Fleadh returns north in August 2025. Moore briefed Belfast counterparts on the 2013 Derry collaboration.

Moore described Comhaltas officials as focused on music and culture. He noted shared tunes across traditions, differing only in words.

Moore highlighted the Imperial Guards band leading Belfast's St Patrick's Day parade this year. That band plans to join the Fleadh.

Moore praised his 2013 interactions with Labhrás Ó Murchú, CCE Director-General.