Council lends support to DIVERT Underage Music Festival

The free festival, which will take place on Wednesday 10th August 1-8pm at the Guildhall Square, aims to showcase a number of up and coming local bands and artists - all of which are under the age of 18. This event is providing young people age 13 - 17 with the opportunity to experience the enjoyment of a music festival in a shared safe space within their own city.

“Positive and alcohol-free events for young people from across our city are definitely needed,” commented the Mayor, Alderman Maurice Devenney. “So far in my summer as Mayor I have had the privilege of seeing a lot of great activities run for and by our local youth. The Divert festival will be a great reward for the many young people who are a credit to their city and local communities. I hope young people from all parts of our city will take part and enjoy the opportunity.”

“We are delighted that as part of our Good Relations Strategy we have been given the opportunity to lend some support to Divert. Council is keen to see public spaces like the Guildhall Square used positively for individuals from across all communities and identities. ‘Teenage Kicks’ will not only be an excellent music showcase but will also feature a number of information stands including the ‘Hands Off My Friend’ anti-hate Crime campaign and a Community Relations stall promoting local diversity. The new Peace Bridge also provides easy access to Guildhall Square for Waterside youth to participate in the event.”

Council has also provided in kind support to the event through its Safety Advisory Group and provision of market stall marquees for the information stands.

Bronách McMonagle from Divert said: “Divert are extremely thrilled with the Teenage Kicks music festival which we envisage will attract in the region of 2,000 young people. We recognized the vital role music plays in young people’s lives no matter what their background, therefore seen a unique opportunity to bring young people from throughout the city and beyond to unite and celebrate a shared interest.”

The event has also been kindly supported by the Drink Think Project and Public Health Agency.For more information please contact Brónach McMonagle, Divert Project on tel: 71273975.