The Arts Minister is set to attend the South by Southwest music festival in Texas, despite calls for her to boycott the event.
All 12 Irish acts that were due to perform at the festival, including Soda Blonde, Kneecap and Gavin James, have pulled out due to the event's link with the US Military.
The army is one of the main sponsors, and weapons manufacturers are due to have stalls on-site.
But Adam O'Regan, the guitarist for Soda Blonde, says Minister Catherine Martin's decision to attend is up to her.
"It may look like a considered protest effort now, with all of the other artists subsequently also pulling out. But really this was just about what felt right for us.
"Diplomats like Minister Martin have different opportunities and different responsibilities. You know, wherever necessary, it's important that diplomats stay engaged.
"She said, she's going to go over there and express her devotion to what's going on. We'll see if that happens".
We have officially withdrawn from @sxsw pic.twitter.com/8TxWaOMQOz
— Soda Blonde (@sodablonde) March 11, 2024
