Omagh venue to host fundraising ‘Gig for Gaza’

MUSICIANS from across the Omagh area are getting together tonight to play a gig to raise money to pay for medical aid in Gaza.

Proceeds from the ‘Gig for Gaza’ will benefit MAP, a non-political organisation that provides immediate medical aid to those in great need, while also developing local capacity and skills to ensure the long-term development of the Palestinian healthcare system.

According to the UN, since the latest bombing of Gaza began on October 7 of last year, some 300 healthcare workers have been killed.

The fundraiser in Omagh will takes place on Friday, February 9 at the Top of the Town bar and features artists including Luke Bell, Louise Coyle, Bantam & Fowl, Stout Talk, Bronagh Broderick and the Knotty Pine String Band.

Donal Griffin, one of the organisers of the event, said he and a group of others were inspired to put on the show after seeing the harrowing pictures of the invasion of Gaza.

He said, “When you see the pictures coming from Palestine it is hard to not react to the horrifying things you are seeing. I and a group of other people, including John McGirr who owns the Top of the Town and musician Colin McKane, got together to organise this show.

“We were inspired by the large number of concerts that have already taken place to raise money for MAP all across Ireland and we wanted to do the same.”

Mr Griffin added, “I want to thank all the musicians for taking part and doing the show.”

Drumquin musician, Luke Bell, said that he was glad that local musicians were willing to play the night.

He said, “It’s great to see so many musicians supporting the people of Gaza by doing fundraising gigs. It’s nice that we can use music to do that sort of thing, and I’m thankful for the opportunity; there’s going to be some talented acts on the night so be sure to come out.”

For more information about the event, you can visit the Top of the Town Facebook page.