Mayors of Derry and Belfast backed the joined European Capital of Culture bid. But a top EU official say their hopes may be dashed over Brexit
MEMBERS of the Derry/Belfast bid team have been invited to London next week to discuss a decision by the European Commission to rule five UK cities from the 2023 European Capital of Culture bid.
The EC said the five cities could not take part in the bid because of Brexit taking place in March 2019.
In a statement today, Derry City and Strabane District Council said: “”Further to Thursday’s news on our bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2023, we would like to provide an update on the status of our application at this stage.
“We are working with the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), to explore the options available in the context of the recent announcement by the European Commission.
“Negotiations between DCMS and the European Commission are ongoing and the five bidding cities have been invited to attend a meeting next week in London to receive an update.
“We are actively involved in supporting these ongoing discussions. Once these negotiations have concluded we will proceed with the publication of the details of the bid.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your invaluable support and enthusiasm that has shaped an outstanding bid.
“This has been an incredible journey and we value the partnerships which have been created through this process.
“We wish to pledge our commitment to build on the strong foundations established and progress further with these relationships.
“We will keep you advised as further information becomes available.”
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