Welcoming the queen

WHILE I personally object to monarchs being heads of state, I acknowledge Queen Elizabeth is, rightly or wrongly, the British head of state and someone who the people of Britain have a great affection for and who they continue to use as head of state.

Progress in the North has been very good and is ongoing, notwithstanding recent developments. We should be generous and welcoming, something Irish people are very good at. Most importantly we must show respect to the British people. Here is a lady who has dedicated herself to her country and people and been to all the best places in the world — except one. I think she will want to come here more than we can ever imagine.

Paul Ó Riain