The Ulster Fleadh condemnation of a social media video showing IRA chanting last weekend in Dromore has been welcomed by Unionist politicians.

The organisation expressed its "sadness and anger" at the chanting, saying the event in Dromore, Co.Tyrone was not affiliated to the Ulster Fleadh and promised action if any of its members were involved. 

The strong statement has been welcomed by both Ulster Unionist MLA Tom Elliott and DUP counterpart Deborah Erskine. 

The Ulster Fleadh statement said:"The Ulster Fleadh is proud to be a positive celebration of culture and we have worked hard to build relationships across all communities in our society," said the committee.

"Part of the Fleadh programme this year included marching bands from different traditions and this is something we believe is central to bringing communities together and highlights our shared rich musical and cultural heritage.

"If any member of An Comhaltas is identified to have participated in this chant or any other sectarian activity, our committee will take steps to ensure this is dealt with in the strongest possible terms.

"This sort of incident has no place within the promotion of culture, does nothing to build trust and relations across communities."

Mr. Elliott welcomed the positive step and also called for a police investigation: “It is a positive step that the Ulster Fleadh committee have condemned this action, hopefully public representatives from all parties will do the same and take a strong stance against such hatred and sectarianism.

“I trust the PSNI will also carry out an investigation into this event as I believe this behaviour constitutes a hate crime.

“It is unfortunate that some young people from the Nationalist / Republican community have such an ingrained bitterness by their support for the IRA, a terrorist organisation that murdered hundreds of innocent people in our society."

Deborah Erskine said the statement from the Ulster Fleadh showed "clear leadership and they must be congratulated".