RMT leader Eddie Dempsey announced for Féile 2026 in Derry

Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin to host the prominent worker advocate for an evening of powerful debate

Trade union leader Eddie Dempsey will speak at Féile 2026 in Derry next month.

The RMT General Secretary will appear at Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin on Monday, August 10 at 7pm for a discussion on workers, class politics and the role of the trade union movement in fighting racism, division and the rise of the far right.

Dempsey, who took over from Mick Lynch as General Secretary of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers, has been at the centre of campaigns for better pay, improved conditions and public ownership.

Alongside Lynch, he helped lead a union representing more than 40,000 rail workers through one of the most significant industrial disputes in recent years, securing improved deals on pay and conditions.

He also helped sharpen the public debate around the power of organised workers and the need for services run in the interests of people rather than profit, with the RMT becoming one of the most visible organisations standing up for working people across these islands.

In his first visit to Derry in his role as General Secretary, Eddie will look at how trade unions can bring workers together, defend communities from division and build the solidarity needed to win real change.

Féile 2026 takes place from 5th to 15th August. Check out the full programme at feilederry.com/feile-2026