But there was a clash of opinions during a motion put forward by the SDLP in the city hall there last night.
Both squads qualified for the European championships in France this summer – however some reps suggested the national teams from England and Wales should also be invited.
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The move was defeated.
Independent councillor Ruth Patterson says the reception should only be for one team.
“To use this as a political football is wrong” she said.
“We have six counties in Northern Ireland, and the Northern Ireland football team is the team of Northern Ireland – just as the Republic of Ireland team is the team of the Republic of Ireland” she added.
