Legal Action Launched to Block Bob Vylan’s Dublin Concert

Independent Ireland TD Ken O’Flynn and South Dublin County councillor Linda de Courcy have initiated legal proceedings aimed at preventing the punk-rap duo Bob Vylan from performing at Vicar Street in Dublin on November 26th, 2025. The British band has faced significant backlash following their controversial performance at the Glastonbury Festival earlier this year, during which they led chants that included “death, death to the IDF,” referring to the Israel Defense Forces amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

During a session at the Dublin District Court on Monday, Councillor de Courcy expressed serious concerns regarding the upcoming concert as part of Bob Vylan’s “We Won’t Go Quietly” tour. She stated that O’Flynn had previously reached out to the venue regarding their dance and music license, but had yet to receive a response.

Legal representatives for Liberty Venues Ltd, the operators of Vicar Street, were taken aback by the unexpected objections. Attorney Dorothy Collins informed the court that she had no prior knowledge of any objections against the scheduled performance.

Judge Máire Conneely instructed de Courcy to submit the objections in writing within three weeks, allowing the venue to respond formally. The judge noted that O’Flynn’s absence from the proceedings was concerning, as he was an objector, but acknowledged that he was out of the country.

The matter has been adjourned until November 17th, when further developments will be assessed. The controversy surrounding Bob Vylan intensified after the BBC’s executive complaints unit found that the band’s Glastonbury performance violated editorial guidelines due to the inflammatory nature of their chants. Although the performance did not breach rules against encouraging crime or lack of impartiality, the BBC decided to remove footage of the act from its on-demand services.

In light of these developments, Bob Vylan’s US visas have been revoked, complicating their international touring plans. Additionally, a scheduled performance in the Netherlands was cancelled after frontman Bobby Vylan made comments regarding the recent murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

The unfolding legal situation in Dublin highlights the growing tensions surrounding artistic expression and political statements in music, especially as social issues continue to spark heated debates across the globe. As the November date approaches, the outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar performances in the future.