Does a royal visit really make a difference?

I FIND it absurd, given the perilous state of our economy, that there should be such vociferous opposition in some quarters to the proposed visit here of one of the richest people in the world.

Surely it is in our financial interest to ensure Queen Elizabeth II visits these shores? If we show her a good time maybe she’ll consider popping over on a more regular basis, providing a much-needed boost to our economy. And with a number of high-profile royal weddings on the horizon, we should be pitching ourselves as the “ideal” honeymoon destination for the newlyweds.

Considering that most of those opposed to the royal visit vigorously support British soccer teams, it is only fair that the queen is seen to acknowledge such support by calling in person to see her loyal subjects. So whether ‘Lizzie’ visits subordinate administrations in Belfast or Dublin, does it really matter?