Northern Ireland

Leo Varadkar confirmed for Féile Leaders' Debate

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is due to take part in Féile an Phobail's Leader's Debate. Picture by Arthur Allison/Pacemaker
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is due to take part in Féile an Phobail's Leader's Debate. Picture by Arthur Allison/Pacemaker

LEO Varadkar will tonight take part in a panel debate in west Belfast alongside other political leaders from across Ireland.

Just days after the taoiseach joined marchers on Belfast's annual Pride parade, he will appear in Féile an Phobail's Leaders’ Debate at St Mary’s University College on the Falls Road.

Féile director Kevin Gamble said the event, which is chaired by broadcaster William Crawley, is the "flagship" of the annual festival's debates and discussions programme.

"The Leaders' Debate is a significant event and takes place as conversations about the constitutional future of Ireland continue to gather pace with Brexit looming on the horizon," he said.

“Féile an Phobail works to include all opinions, from every political spectrum."

Read More: Belfast Pride parade is Northern Ireland at its best, Leo Varadkar says

Also taking part are Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald, Ulster Unionist MLA Doug Beattie, Fianna Fáil TD Brendan Smith, DUP MP Gregory Campbell, Alliance leader Naomi Long and SDLP MLA Daniel McCrossan.

No tickets are required for the event but it is advisable to arrive in good time for 7pm start.