Fianna Fáil group leader of Dublin City Council, Councillor Mary Fitzpatrick has said: “Today’s visit by Queen Elizabeth of England is a historic and momentous occasion for both our countries.  Most people I have spoken to welcome the visit of the Head of State of our nearest neighbour and many have expressed their disappointment that they were deprived the opportunity to extend a typical and warm Irish welcome on the streets of Dublin.

“The Gardaí are to be commended for their operations.  Unfortunately the extreme and outdated views of a very small number of people have disproportionally affected the visit and ordinary people of Dublin, renowned around the world for their warm welcome, have been removed from the streets of Dublin for the occasion.

“The Queen should be welcomed on the streets of Dublin and hopefully she will return again soon and on the next occasion get to meet with the general public.”