Westport publicans refuse to lift ban on travellers

Publicans in Westport are refusing to lift a ban on travellers drinking in their pubs.

It comes despite reports landlords in the Co Mayo town had backed down after meeting with Junior Justice Minister, Willie O'Dea, yesterday.

The Vintners Federation of Ireland says it has no plans to introduce a national ban after alleged violent behaviour by travellers in some bars.

Chairman of the Westport Vintners, Chris Lavelle, says individual landlords must protect themselves.

"I know we are breaking the law and I know we will be objected to. If that is going to happen it will happen.

"If we do not have control of our premises we are as well to close our doors anyway. You can’t have marauding, and Willie O'Dea asked us not to use strong language, but you can’t have marauding gangs going around the country terrorising people."