Publicans refuse to lift ban on Travellers

Carl O’Brien, Political Correspondent

The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland met with Junior Justice Minister Willie O’Dea and insisted there would be no nationwide ban - but Mayo publicans are holding firm. Westport Vintners chairman Chris Lavelle said publicans had to be able to protect themselves. “I can’t go back to the publicans in Westport and tell them that I’m afraid we’ll have to lift the ban,” he said.

“We’re fighting for our lives, our staff and our property. If we’re not able to do that, we might as well hand over the keys to the Travelling community,” Mr Lavelle added.