Ring: Higgins' comments on Queen 'short-sighted'

The Junior Tourism Minister Michael Ring said he hopes the Queen is made welcome in Ireland next month, and is calling for any protests to be carried out in a decent and honourable manner.

Mr Ring said the visit is a wonderful opportunity for Irish tourism, as media outlets from all over the world prepare to cover the occasion.

He also described a call from Socialist TD Joe Higgins for Queen Elizabeth to be asked for a contribution towards her accommodation as 'a bit short-sighted'.

Mr Ring said the focus should be on making the most of the chance to capitalise on the publicity Ireland will get through the royal visit, and that of the US President Barack Obama.