O'CONNOR WITHDRAWS FROM FESTIVAL BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND

Irish pop star Sinead O'Connor withdrew from a Belfast festival, saying Catholic 
organizers told her not to speak out against Irish Republican Army violence. 
Organizer Caitriona Ruane denied O'Connor's allegations. "At no time did we say 
that she could not speak about any issue," Ruane said. 
The annual August festival is held in the IRA stronghold of west Belfast. "I am 
sure my fans will understand my action -- as they know me well by now -- certainly 
better than Feile an Phobail," O'Connor said Thursday, using the Gaelic name for the 
festival, which means "Festival of the People."