As backlash against the Galway Girl hitmaker continues, Classic Hits Radio, which is based in Ireland, announced its decision to remove Ed’s music in response to “reaction from our listeners.” Dave Kelly, group program director at Bay Broadcasting, which runs the station, said in a statement, "Our decision to remove Ed Sheeran’s music from the Classic Hits Radio playlist has been carefully considered.

"It is not intended as a personal judgment on Ed Sheeran, and we acknowledge his own explanation of the circumstances surrounding recent events. As an independent Irish-owned radio station, however, we believe it is important to listen to our audience and to stand alongside Irish artists who have made what is undoubtedly a significant professional decision based on their own convictions.

“Ultimately, our position is a simple one. We believe in peace, humanity and respect, and in the right of people and artists to express and act upon their sincerely held views. In light of the strength of feeling expressed by our listeners and the decisions taken by Irish artists involved in the tour, we believe removing Ed Sheeran’s music from our playlist is the appropriate decision for Classic Hits Radio at this time.”