.... and that McGrath is the problem. It is a fine line.

Irony is either the use of expression in direct opposite to their usual meaning or an event that is opposite of what is expected.

Simply saying something is irony does not mean the writer was successful in conveying the intent. That is when it comes across as sarcasm.   You can argue that it is the fault of the reader to miss the point, but often it is the writer who is too sure of themselves to realize they miss the boat.

You can say that some of the comments posted above are examples of irony, but I would argue that in many cases the intention WAS to hurt, or at least provoke.

Ron