[Irish Times] US state department advice that American citizens should stay away from the Longitude festival this weekend has been described as "beyond ridiculous" by the festival organiser.MCD promoter Denis Desmond said he was shocked and completely in the dark as to why the state department and the US embassy in Ireland had advised its citizens not to go.
The festival continues until Sunday at Marlay Park in south Dublin and the rap-dominated line-up features acts including Ski Mask the Slump God, Cardi B and Stormzy.
The US Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs tweeted in advance of the festival: "#Dublin #Ireland: Reports indicate a potential for violence at the Longitude Festival taking place from July 5-7 in Marlay Park. Police have increased event security and are monitoring the situation. Be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution if in the area."
The US embassy elaborated on the warning advising US citizens that "local police are aware of the threat and will conduct comprehensive bag and person searches. The police have increased event security and are monitoring the situation."