Brown's Irish dates cancelled

Singer Chris Brown has cancelled his Irish tour dates, it was confirmed today.

The controversial R&B star - who was sentenced to six months' community labour for assaulting then-girlfriend Rihanna last February - was due to have performed at the Marquee, Cork on Tuesday night next and at Vicar St in Dublin on Wednesday and Thursday.

He was also scheduled to appear at the Royal Theatre in Castlebar, Co Mayo, on Friday June 18.

"Due to issues surrounding his work visa, the Ireland and United Kingdom leg of Chris Brown’s Fan Appreciation Tour has been postponed," promoters Aiken Promotions said today.

"Chris looks forward to performing for his fans abroad in the near future and thanks them for their continued support."

Aiken Promotions apologised for any inconvenience caused and said refunds were available through point of purchase.

Brown's no-show is the second cancellation to hit Cork's Live at the Marquee summer gigs series after veteran Celtic rockers Horslips yesterday pulled out of their June 26 concert due to the sudden illness of flautist and keyboard player Jim Lockhart.