By now you have probably all heard about the pub in Fairview and it’s banner telling Queen Elizabeth and her family that they are officially barred.

What I found interesting was the fact that Gardai have visited and are reported to have said to the owner that he is inciting hatred. I therefore look forward to Gardai visiting pubs all over the country that regularly incite hatred by barring Travellers and other groups from the premises.

The establishments may not put up banners but they use all sorts of other ways to prevent entry and service. The 1989 Incitement to Hatred Act is the most underused and unenforceable piece of legislation. The Garda Siochana if they are going to oppose a licence renewal on the basis of inciting hatred will have to keep doing it. Won’t they?