The Government has confirmed that €1.8 million has been allocated for 23 national festivals and events under its 2016 National Festivals and Events Programme.

There will be second phase of national funding to follow this announcement in February

Commenting on the funding, Minister of State for Tourism & Sport Michael Ring, said: "Festivals and events are the essence of tourism and are very often what drives visitors to choose to come to Ireland".

He continued to say that, "The funding will play a significant part in growing tourism over the next 12 months".

Festivals included in the initiative include, St Patrick's Festival (€1m), Cork International Choral Festival (€50,000), Tradfest (€50,000), Sea Sessions (€40,000), Galway Film Fleadh (€20,000), Donegal Rally (€10,000), Dublin International Film Festival (€10,000) and Challenge Galway (€10,000).

Failte Ireland's 2016 National Festivals Programme aims to boost growth from markets abroad through enticing events for target audiences.