I have just been reading through this thread and find it very upsetting of the rudeness Bannerboy and Frank McNally.
That thay can make a judgment on a group of musicians and singers, Thay do not know! as for the journalist printing in the paper about them with out knowing them or talking to them, that surly most come under some kind of slander, I do hope one of them look in to that!!
       I too have been to Ireland for the sing a rounds with my husband and a bunch of friends some are musicians and singers,   
I have never found this sort attitude or rudeness!! I have always found Ireland most welcoming and a beautiful place.
                   Mrs C.