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UUP cllr Trevor Wilson voiced his support for the motion and passed on his condolences to the McMullan family.

Lord Mayor of Belfast Cllr Micky Murray said he is "delighted" the event will be held in Belfast.

Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Somerset Council's executive lead member for communities, housing and culture, said it was "very disappointing news indeed for our communities and the creative industries" in the county.

Cllr Casey wrote: "We will find £17m over two years to fund this. I hope you agree that it represents a significant commitment to our teaching workforce and to the quality of education in the city. I hope this will be welcome news to your members."

Cllr Casey also said that additional funding from the Scottish government would be used on increasing the number of teachers in the city, and that the SNP were "hopeful" other parties would back the proposal.