Irish Traveller model Sarah Jane Dunne was left horrified – after being asked by RTE to model Big Fat Gypsy dresses.
The Kilkenny beauty – who was the first Traveller to take part in Miss Ireland – was asked to wear the frocks for the Saturday Night Show.
Producers wanted Sarah to model Thelma Madine’s designs, which are frequently seen on the hit Channel 4 reality series.
Invite: Brendan wanted Sarah to model Traveller dresses | VIPIRELAND.COM
But Sarah said: “I didn’t even have to think twice about it. I had to decline. Big Fat Gypsy Wedding promotes stereotypes that I try to steer away from.
“So it wasn’t for me. Personally I don’t like it. I have seen bits of the show but I wouldn’t watch it. Traveller culture is so much more than what it depicts.”
Competition: Sarah was part of Miss Ireland |Â BRIAN MCEVOY
And Sarah told the Sunday World that a lot more needs to change in how Travellers are seen.
She added: “Traveller culture is so much more than big dresses and weddings.
“Take Irish traditional music, for example. This tradition would not be what it is today if it were not for the Traveller musicians.”
