A very telling image, that motorcade making its way through empty streets; the contrast between this and the enthusiasm with which President O'Bama will soon be greeted should put the British Monarchy in its place. There's something deeply distasteful in holding a Banquet for people who have known nothing but privilege whilst there are many among the population at large who struggle to make ends meet, even to keep a roof over their heads and those of their children. No doubt Ireland has to play its part in this international game, but I can't help wishing the ould Queen had been served up a plate of potatoes, in their jackets, with a wee pile of salt in the middle of a plain deal board. Scrubbed clean, of course.