Ray Morgan, chair of Glengormley School of Traditional Music, has called for sustained investment in traditional music tuition following the success of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast.

West Belfast MLA Aisling Reilly reported that more than 1.7 million passenger journeys were made on Translink services during the Fleadh, an increase of 620,000 compared with the same period last year. She said the figures underline the event's success and commended Translink staff for their planning and work.

Morgan said the Fleadh brought a sustained sense of excitement to the city for eight days and was inclusive, with many families and young people playing traditional music on the streets. His school ran a daily session trail at locations including 2 Royal Avenue and performed with about 50 musicians on the Gig Rig stage at Belfast City Hall on the Friday.

He said the school is at full capacity for the September term and is waiting on Arts Council funding. Morgan argued that the expected increase in interest in traditional music after the Fleadh means proper and sustained investment is needed, including more constructive and organised traditional music teaching in schools.

The school has set up fundraising for traditional music instruments in primary schools and was recently supported by Féile an Phobail as charity partner and by Tradfest. Morgan said some children cannot afford a tin whistle, and the school will continue to provide tuition and promotion of traditional music.

Reilly said Translink will learn from the scale of the event and is likely planning for next year's Fleadh, which returns to Belfast. She added that high public transport use shows how it can support a vibrant, safe, accessible and people-focused city centre.