Murphy's Irish Stout has announced that it is to end its sponsorship of the annual Cat Laughs comedy festival in Kilkenny.
The festival is one of Ireland's most popular summer events, attracting more than 100,000 people over the June Bank Holiday weekend each year.
Festival director Mr Richard Cook confirmed at the weekend that Murphy's had decided to end its nine year association with the event. He said that the termination of the sponsorship deal had been mutual.
Mr Cook added that while he was optimistic about next year's event, there was no guarantee that the annual festival would continue.
Mr Kevin Cullinane, Marketing Manager at Murphy's said: "The sponsorship has been hugely successful for the Murphy's brand, but after nine fantastic years, it is now time to move on."
"I'd like to wish Richard Cook, Lynn Cahill and their team every success, and have no doubt that the future of this superb festival is secure, and will continue to prosper and entertain Irish comedy fans for many years," he continued.
The Cat Laughs festival is worth millions of euro to the business community of Kilkenny.