Féile an Phobail West Belfast was launched in 1988 and, despite resistance from unionists because of the involvement of Sinn Féin, has been given substantial public funding in recent years.

Last year, British government grants amounted to £200,000 (€292,000), but funding for five jobs, including that of children's art co-ordinator, was withdrawn. This summer, the grant was slashed by £100,000. Following protests and an investigation by British secretary of state, Peter Hain, much of the funding was restored.

For several years, unionist politicians have taken part in the West Belfast Talks Back debate, which attracts considerable media attention. The North's Police Ombudsman, Nuala O'Loan, will join Ulster Scots champion Lord Laird on the panel, with BBC NI political correspondent Martina Purdy in the chair.

The ambitious programme includes music, theatre, readings, debates and events for children. Highlights this year include Echo and the Bunnymen, Afrobeat band Femi Kuti and the Positive Force with Emanuel Jal, readings by Hugo Hamilton and Medbh McGuckian, talks by Brian Kennaway (on the Orange Order), Peter Taylor (on journalism in conflict) and Mohammed Almadhoun, head of the office of the Palestinian prime minister (on Palestine today.) There is a carnival parade, and more unusual events include five-hour guided tour of local graveyards. Details from www.feilebelfast.com or phone 02890-284028