Dermot Kennedy: Singer apologises for use of racial slur

Irish singer Dermot Kennedy has apologised after he used a racial slur during an interview in Canada.

The musician used the term, considered derogatory to members of the Traveller community, in a video posted online by Much, a popular music channel.

"I was not referring to anyone specific, and I never mean to cause harm with the words I say," he said.

"So I am sorry for any distress caused."

The performer is currently on tour in North America and it is understood the interview took place in Toronto on 10 June.

As part of the discussion, Kennedy was asked to share some examples of Irish slang words.

Dublin Senator Eileen Flynn told Irish radio station Newstalk that she had written an email to Mr Kennedy in relation to his comment.

Speaking on Tuesday, she described the singer as a role model for children and young traveller men but said his comment was "very foolish".

"I don't think he was thinking and the more I actually watch the video the more I feel a lot of empathy towards him," she said.

Kennedy also used the word "knackered" in the interview, to describe being very tired.

But Ms Flynn said she also felt uncomfortable with that term.

"Some travellers find offence to the word knackered and some travellers don't, but unfortunately we just shouldn't be using it at all."