Minister Catherine Martin has "utmost respect" for SXSW-boycotting artists' "freedom of expression"

The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin, has spoken to several of the Irish acts who have pulled out of this year's edition of SXSW, due to the American showcase festival's US Army sponsorship, and the participation of prominent defence contractor RTX Corporation in the event.

In a statement from her department this evening, it was revealed that the Minister told these acts that "she has the utmost respect for their freedom of expression as artists".

Minister Martin will be attending events at SXSW (currently underway in Austin, Texas) herself, as part of the Government's St Patrick's Day programme.

According to her department, these "events are aimed at promoting Ireland's creative industries through a trade mission led by Enterprise Ireland and a comprehensive promotion of Ireland’s film industry."

"They are taking place in collaboration with Ireland’s consulates in Austin, Los Angeles and San Francisco," the statement continues, "as well as the Department of Foreign Affairs, Culture Ireland, Screen Ireland, IDA, Tourism Ireland and Music from Ireland."

The Minister reportedly told the artists boycotting SXSW – many of whom stated they did so in solidarity with the people of Palestine – that "she will use every opportunity available to her to make clear her revulsion at the devastation that has been unleashed on Gaza."

KNEECAP, SPRINTS, Soda Blonde, Gavin James, Mick Flannery, Chalk, Conchúr White and Robert Grace have all pulled out of the festival – while NewDad, Cardinals, Enola Gay, and Gurriers revealed this afternoon that they won't be playing any official shows at SXSW, and instead will be making joint statements at the Music From Ireland showcase events.