Thousands of young footballers, hurlers, camógie players and handballers to descend on Derry for Féile na nÓg

It will take place at the end of June and is expected to attract up to 25,000 people to the North West with teams travelling from all over Ireland and overseas.

Sinn Féin Councillor Mickey Cooper said it will provide a major boost for sports fans and the local economy.

He said: “Along with my party colleague Ruairí McHugh I recently met with GAA officials who outlined their plans for the Féile na nÓg which will take place between June 26 and 28 this year.

“The event involves under 14 male and female players from GAA clubs based across the globe competing against local teams in club grounds across Tyrone, Derry and Donegal.

“The competitors are also hosted by the families of local club members.

“When the event was held in Derry in 2010 and 2013 it attracted thousands of GAA fans who stayed in local tourist accommodation which obviously provided a massive boost to our local economy.”

Colr. Cooper has proposed that Derry City and Strabane District Council provide support for the tournament. The proposal was unanimously backed at committee level but awaits ratification at Full Council later this month.

“I look forward to the proposal being ratified at February’s full council meeting and seeing further progress in the weeks ahead. I would also urge all local GAA fans to show their support by turning out in their droves for the Féile matches in June,” he said.