Royals’ visit proves harmony is possible

ANEWLY-MARRIED couple from London visited Dublin yesterday. They visited the Phoenix Park, Trinity College, Croke Park, the Epic emigration museum and went for lunch in Camden Street – a typical day-tripper schedule. The weather wasn’t as fabulous as it has been for the past while but Harry Windsor and Meghan Markle seemed to enjoy themselves.

And the presence of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in the capital city brought joy to fans of the royal family far and wide.

What’s more, it all appeared perfectly normal. There was a high Garda and security presence at the locations they visited, but the most glamorous couple from the royal family of our near neighbours was warmly welcomed.

That visits from members of the royal family have become part and parcel of relations between the two countries is a positive development.

Indeed, there is an argument the royal family are being used more as a diplomatic tool in the wake of Brexit, which has so strained Anglo-Irish relations.

Unfortunately, though, elsewhere on this island itself there is less evidence of harmonisation.

The street violence in Derry and the sectarianism in Belfast this week shows there is still a long way to go there before respect is truly shown for both traditions.