
<rss version="2.0">
	<channel>
		<title>English</title>
		<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51287</link>
		<description></description>
		<language>en</language>
		<pubDate>Sat, 04 Sep 2010 20:51:45 UTC</pubDate>
		
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Travel Advice]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51364</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
TRAVEL INSURANCE


The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that
comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is
obtained before travelling to Nigeria.Travellers should note
that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency
medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.


ENTRY REQUIREMENTS


For entry requirements for Nigeria, please contact the nearest Embassy or
Consulate of Nigeria. Please check whether you have been
issued a “multiple” entry or “single” entry visa before finalising
your travel plans.


It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport
with you.During your stay you should carry a photocopy of
your passport at all times.


SAFETY &amp;amp; SECURITY


We strongly advise against all travel to the Niger Delta at this
time. Irish citizens should be aware that there is a high risk
of serious crimes, including armed attacks, targeted against
expatriates in the Niger Delta. In particular, the risk of
abduction, whether politically or economically motivated, is very
high. Militants have carried out attacks on oil and gas facilities
in the Delta and may be planning further attacks. There have also
been car bomb attacks on residential compounds in Port Harcourt. In
2009, the pattern of kidnapping has spread to the States adjacent
to the Niger Delta. Armed robberies in these areas also more common
now.


Attacks on villages to the south of the City of Josearly
on 7 March caused multiple deaths. Intending travellers should
avoid non-essential travel to the wider Jos area until further
notice and should be aware of the possibility of renewed violence
in others towns in Northern and Middle Belt Nigeria. Between
17-22 January 2010 many people were killed in inter-community
violence in and near the City of Jos, in middle-belt Nigeria. On 28
December 2009, multiple deaths were reported during clashes in
Bauchi between security forces and members of an extremist sect. In
July, similar clashes in Maiduguri, Bauchi, Wudil and Potiskum led
to very considerable loss of life, especially in Maiduguri.
Outbreaks of inter-community violence with loss of life occurred in
Jos in November 2008 and in Bauchi in February 2009.


Following a number of fatal commercial airline disasters in recent
years, Irish citizens should carefully evaluate implications for
their security and safety before deciding to undertake domestic air
travel.


We advise citizens to exercise caution if travelling to all other
parts of Nigeria. There has also been violence in the area
bordering Cameroon, near the Bakassi peninsula.


CRIME


Violent street crimes including armed robberies, muggings and
carjackings are especially prevalent in the south of the country
including Lagos and Port Harcourt.


Citizens should be aware of the risks presented by fraudsters. A
range of scams are used to encourage victims to part with
money. For example, some criminals operate through internet
sites, building trust with victims over a period of time before
announcing that they are in dire trouble and require funds
urgently. Further useful information on Advance Fee Fraud in West
Africa is available from the website of the Nigeria's Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission: http://www.efccnigeria.org/index.php?option=com_docman&amp;amp;task=cat_view&amp;amp;gid=20&amp;amp;Itemid=40
   For security as well as commercial reasons, business people
   travelling to Nigeria to be hosted by a new local partner should
   check the background of the partner before finalising their
   arrangements


LOCAL LAWS &amp;amp; CUSTOMS


Nigeria has the largest Muslim population in Africa. You should
exercise discretion in behaviour and dress, particularly in the
north and especially when visiting religious sites. 


ROAD SAFETY


There are frequent reports of robberies and carjackings, some
involving armed gunmen, on Nigeria's road network. You should be
vigilant when travelling on all major roads within Nigeria. You
should avoid travel after dark outside cities. You should also take
care after dark within cities, avoiding secondary roads and areas
where other traffic is light. Please be particularly vigilant when
sitting in traffic jams or at traffic lights at night. Keep your
car windows and doors locked and valuables out of sight.


There are authorised as well as unauthorised vehicle checkpoints
throughout Nigeria. Some are for security checks, others to extort
small payments of money. You should slow down at any type of
checkpoint and use common sense at all times.


Public transport is dangerous. Taxis and long distance buses are
poorly maintained and are often driven by fraudulent drivers.


HEALTH


Cholera Outbreak


On June 19, an outbreak of diarrhea and vomiting has been reported
to be occurring in Duwo and Dangir villages of Dumna and Chilaka
wards, respectively in Guyuk LGA of Adamawa State. As of August 17,
laboratory confirmed cholera outbreaks are occurring in the
following 3 States in Northern eastern Nigeria: Adamawa (139 cases,
13 deaths between weeks 24 and36), Borno (98 cases, 4 deaths
between weeks 31 and 32) and Bauchi (600 cases of AWD of which 5
were lab confirmed, 13 deaths between weeks 24 and 28). The
cumulative total number of cholera cases is 837 including 30 deaths
(CFR: 3.6%).


On August 23, 2010 analysis of cholera surveillance data reveals
that since the beginning of the year the cumulative number of
cholera cases is 4119 including 217 deaths (CFR of 5.2%). Four
states are currently reporting cases and deaths (Adamawa, Borno,
Bauchi and Taraba).


Preventive and control measures are ongoing. The DPC is currently
on the ground and will be sharing the latest information on this
event.


General


In most parts of Nigeria, medical facilities are very basic. You
should ensure that you have comprehensive travel and medical
insurance, which covers a provision for medical evacuation. You
should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for
the activities you want to undertake.


You should consult with your doctor well in advance of travelling
to Nigeria about necessary inoculations and precautions and current
travel health notices. You should also consult your doctor about
anti-malarial measures.


There has been a significant outbreak of meningococcal disease
(commonly referred to as meningitis or epidemic meningitis) in
Nigeria this year. As of 15 March, 2009, Nigeria’s Ministry of
Health had reported 17,462 suspected cases and 960 deaths this
year. The Bauchi, Gombe, Katsina, Jigawa, and Yobe are among the
most affected States.


On 24 February 2009 an outbreak of Lassa Fever was announced in the
Federal Capital Territory, which includes Abuja, and neighbouring
Nassarrawa state.


HIV/AIDS is prevalent. The WHO is warning that there is a high risk
of polio infection in northern Nigeria. There are regular outbreaks
of cholera and measles.


There have been outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in domestic
poultry and wild birds in Nigeria. One human fatality, believed to
have arisen through close contact with infected poultry, was
confirmed by Government authorities in 2007.Outbreaks have
occurred in 18 of the 36 States in the Federation plus the Federal
Capital Territory (Abuja). You should consult the WHO website for information on the
level of alert in Nigeria at a given time.


 For
further information and advice on Avian Influenza, please click
here.


 

DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR MISSIONS IN NIGERIA


Contact details for all Irish Missions (including Honorary
Consuls) in Nigeria are available here. (Opens in new window)

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 03 Sep 2010 09:07:36 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Track Your Visa Application]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=75467</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Click here to track your Application made by AVATS - After 1
September 2008



Decisions for April 2009 (PDF 127kb)



Decisions for May 2009 (PDF 144kb)



Decisions for June 2009 (PDF 133kb)



Decisions for July 2009 (PDF 211kb)



Decisions for August 2009 (PDF 135kb)



Decisions for September 2009 (PDF 470kb)



Decisions for October 2009 (PDF 143kb)



Decisions for November 2009 (PDF 407kb)



Decisions for December 2009 (PDF 97kb)



Decisions for January 2010 (PDF 100kb)



Decisions for February 2010 (PDF 63kb)



Decisions for March 2010 (PDF 111kb)



Decision for April 2010 (PDF 93kb)



Decision for May 2010 (PDF 75kb)



Decision for June 2010 (PDF 114kb)



Decisions for July 2010 (PDF 12kb)



Decisions up to 26 August 2010 (PDF 13kb)


Please double click on any of the above files to track your
applicaiton online. Once you click on any of the above files a PDF
document will open. Pls click on Find and type in your AVATS
reference number. The following are the possible results


Approved - your visa has been approved. As you have provided the
Embassy with a prepaid courier envelope then your package is on its
way to you through the courier service you provided. Please contact
them directly if your package is not delivered to you within a few
days.


Refused - your visa has been refused. If you gave us a
prepaid courier envelope then your package is on its way to you
through the courier service you provided. If not then pls make
arrangement to collect your package from the Embassy.


Search not Found or No Matches Found - This means that NO DECISION
HAS BEEN TAKEN YET ON YOUR APPLICATION. Your application is still
pending. Pls check again the following week.


Withdrawn - Your visa application has been withdrawn as per your
request.


Click here to track your Visa Appeal


Please double click on any of the below files to track your
appealonline. Each file contains appeals decisions made for
that month. Once you click on any of the above files a PDF document
will open. Pls click on Find and type in your AVATS reference
number. The following are the possible results



January 2009 (PDF 32kb)



February 2009 (PDF 37kb)



March 2009 (PDF 24kb)



April 2009 (PDF 33kb)



May 2009 (PDF 35kb)



June 2009 (PDF 36kb)



July 2009 (PDF 30kb)



August 2009 (PDF 31kb)



September 2009 (PDF 45kb)



Decisions for October 2009 (PDF 34kb)



Decisions for November 2009 (PDF 42kb)



Decisions for December 2009 (PDF 29kb)



Decision for January 2010 (PDF 37kb)



Decisions for February 2010 (PDF 20kb)



Decisions for March 2010 (PDF 30kb)



Decisions for April 2010 (PDF 22kb)



Decisions for May 2010 (PDF 27kb)



Decisions for June 2010 (PDF 23kb)



Decisions for July 2010 (PDF 11kb)



Decisions for August 2010 (PDF 11kb)


Approved- Your visa has been approved on appeal. Pls arrange
to send in your passport to the Embassy by courier and pay for
return for the issuance of your visa.


Refused - Your visa has been refused on appeal. You are only
entitled to one appeal. If you gave us a prepaid courier envelope
then we will send your originals and decisions back to you. If not
then your package will be sent to you by Ordinary Nigerian post.
The Embassy will not be responsible for any missing packages.


Search not Found or No Matches Found - This means that NO DECISION
HAS BEEN TAKEN YET ON YOUR APPLICATION. Your appeal is still
pending. Pls check again the following week.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 27 Aug 2010 10:00:39 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Ireland in Nigeria]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51288</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Welcome


Welcome to the website of the Embassy of Ireland in Nigeria. I hope
you will find the material on our site interesting and useful.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:57:24 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[News Update]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51295</link>
					<description><![CDATA[



Dearbhla Glynn, Director of Damb&#233;: the Mali Project, presenting
films to Teddy Hanmakugh, Director of the National Film
Institute.





Ms Glynn visited Nigeria inMay 2010 to present Damb&#233;: the
Mali Project at the European Film Festival, discuss her work
with film students at the National Film Institute and interact with
Nigerian documentary film makers. Her visit programme was organised
bythe Embassy of Irelandand Mr. Afolabi Adesanya, the
Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation.





]]></description>
					<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:55:08 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Types of Visa]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51319</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
A comprehensive list of the different visa types that are
available, and the documentation required in respect of each, is
available on the INIS website.


The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the
Department of Foreign Affairs or any Irish Embassy or Consulate may
ask for further documentation at any stage.


For ease of reference, separate links for some of the most common
visa types are set out below.


TRAVELLING TO IRELAND AS A
TOURIST


If you are a Visa-required national and you would like to visit
Ireland for a short period (less than 3 months) you will find
useful guidelines and details of requirements for Visit/Holiday
Visa applications here.


For further information on tourism in Ireland please visit the
website of Tourism Ireland.



TRAVELLING TO IRELAND ON
BUSINESS


Business Meeting
If you are a Visa-required national and coming to Ireland for a
business meeting you will find useful guidelines and details of
requirements for Business Visa applications here


ConferenceIf you are a Visa-required
national and coming to Ireland for a conference you will find
useful guidelines and details of requirements for Conference Visa
applications here


Starting a Business in Ireland
If you are a Non-EEA national and you wish to set up a business in
Ireland, you will require Business Permission from the Department
of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. For more information please
click here


STUDYING IN IRELAND


If you require an entry visa for Ireland and would like to study
here, you will find useful guidelines and details of requirements
for Study Visa appplications here.


WORKING IN IRELAND

If you are a national of a country which is not a member of the
European Economic Area (EEA) and you wish to work in Ireland, you
will require authorisation to do so.

For most types of employment, a non-EEA national requires a Work
Permit. For full information on work permits please visit the
website of the Department of Enterprise,Trade and Employment.

A visa-required national who has been issued with a Work
Permit can apply for an Employment visa through their local
Irish Embassy or Consulate. You will find useful
guidelines and details of requirements for Employment Visa
applications here.


For further information on finding work in Ireland, please visit
the F&#193;S website


WORKING HOLIDAYS

Ireland offers young people from Australia, Canada, Hong
Kong, Japan, 
New Zealand and the Republic of Korea
, the chance to work casually to enable them to
spend an extended holiday in Ireland. For further information
on the Working Holiday schemes, please see the Working Holidays in
Ireland page.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 14 Jul 2010 11:19:47 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Travel Advice for  Ghana]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83201</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
A H1N1 VIRUS (Swine Flu): Latest Information


There have been some confirmed human cases of Swine Flu/Pandemic
(H1N1) in Ghana. The Ghanaian authorities report that stockpiles of
Tamiflu are in place at regional hospitals and other distribution
points. In-country testing of Swine flu is being undertaken.
Samples can be taken at several regional hospitals for forwarding
to a central laboratory in Accra.


TRAVEL INSURANCE


The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that
comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is
obtained before travelling to France.Travellers should note
that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency
medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.


ENTRY REQUIREMENTS


For entry requirements for Ghana, please contact the nearest Ghanian
Embassy or Consulate.The &quot;Emergency Visa&quot; procedure
should, where possible, be avoided, especially if proposed by a new
local business partner.


It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport
with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your
passport at all times.


SAFETY &amp;amp; SECURITY


You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist
attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places
frequented by foreigners.


Wave and tide patterns are often dangerous, and swimming from
beaches can be hazardous. You should only do so after taking
local advice on conditions.


CRIME


Most visits to Ghana are trouble-free. However, there are
incidents of crime, particularly in and around Accra and the other
main urban areas. You should avoid carrying large sums of
money or valuables and be very wary when drawing cash from any of
the cash points in central Accra.


You are advised to exercise vigilance, particularly after
dark.


LOCAL LAWS &amp;amp; CUSTOMS


Ghana is a conservative and deeply religious country.
Although modern and progressive attitudes also prevail, respect
must be shown for traditional values and morals. Beachwear
should be confined to the beach, and wearing immodest clothing in
public is likely to cause offence or attract unwanted
attention.


Penalties for drugs related offences are severe.


Homosexuality in Ghana is illegal.


Photography near sensitive sites such as military installations or
the airport is strictly prohibited.


ROAD SAFETY


Roads are mainly in a poor condition, particularly in rural
areas. Road travel can be extremely hazardous due to
poor or non-existent street lighting. You are advised to
avoid travelling by road outside the main towns after dark, when
the risk of accidents and robbery is greater. Safety
standards on small private buses and taxis are often low


DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR MISSIONS


There is currently no Irish consulate in Ghana.


The Embassy of Ireland in Abuja in Nigeria is accredited
to Ghana - for contact details, please click here. (Opens in
new window)


For contact details of the Honorary Consul in
Ghana, click here .

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2010 13:10:43 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Other Countries to which the Embassy is Accredited]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51296</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
The Embassy of Ireland in Abuja is also accredited to Chad, Ghana,
Liberia, Senegal and Sierra Leone.


Travel Advice
for Ghana
Travel Advice
for Liberia
Travel Advice
for Sierre Leone


Development Cooperation support to Sierra Leone and Liberia


Development Cooperation Office of the Embassy of Ireland in
Freetown, Sierra Leone, manages the Irish Aid development
cooperation programmes for Sierra Leone and Liberia. This mission
is managed by Ms Anne-Marie Callan.


Ms Anne-Marie Callan
Charg&#233; d’Affaires
Embassy of Ireland (Development Cooperation Office)
45 Spur Road
Freetown
Sierra Leone


Honorary Consuls in Region


Dr. Wadi M. Aboud
Honorary Consul-General
Consulate General of Ireland
8, Rawdon Street - First Floor
Freetown
Sierra Leone


Tel No: 00232-22-224223
Fax No: 00232-22 223687
E-mail: eirecon-freetown@wasltd.com


Honorary Consul General in FreetownIreland’s
Honorary Consul General in Freetown plays a key role the provision
of emergency and other consular services to Irish citizens on the
ground. Individuals resident in Sierra Leone may submit visa
applications at the Honorary Consulate General of Ireland.


Honorary Consul General in Ghana


Mr Liam McVeigh
Honorary Consul
Consulate of Ireland
C/O Taysec Construction Ltd
Suite 101, Adwoa Agyeiwaa House
84 Cantonments Road
PO Box OS 1010, Accra


Tel: +233 (0) 302 742030
Fax: +233 (0) 302 742035
Email: irish.consulate@taysec.net


Opening hours: 0900 – 1300 (Monday – Friday)


The Consulate has no role in relation to visa applications. Visa
applications can be submitted at Ireland Visa Application Centre,
F298/5, 5th Norla Link, North Labone Estate, Near UNHCR office at
Labone, Accra. http://ie.vfsglobal.com.gh/index.aspx




]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:48:39 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Honorary Consulate, Lagos]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51290</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Following the death of Mr Cecil Quinn, Honorary Consul-General of
Ireland at Lagos, on the 7th of April 2010, the consulate has
closed.


All consulate functions will be performed by the Embassy of
Ireland, Abuja, until further notice.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:36:01 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[About the Embassy and the Embassy Services]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51289</link>
					<description><![CDATA[   
About the Embassy


Ambassador

H.E. Mr Kyle O’Sullivan


Deputy Head of
Mission
Shane Stephens


The Embassy's public office is open Monday to Friday from 8.30 AM -
4: 30 PM, while the Visa Office operates Monday to Thursday from
9.00 AM – 3.00 PM.


As telephone lines can be busy, callers may prefer to direct
e-mails to the Embassy through the dedicated links provided below.
For visa matters, callers from Ireland, can also contact the Irish
National Immigration and Nationalisation Service at 1890 511
500.





Embassy Services


Commercial Service


The Embassy endeavours to support both i) Irish firms supplying
goods and services from Ireland to Nigeria and the regional market
and ii) the growing network of Irish firms that are already
operating here. Our services may be of particular use to visiting
business people and those who are new to the region.


Irish and Ireland-based firms are invited to make contact with the
Embassy through the link provided below or (+234) 9 4620611.


Consular Services


In cooperation with the Passport Office and the Consular Services
Section of the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin, the Embassy
also provides consular and passport services to Irish citizens in
Nigeria and the other countries of accreditation.


We would invite Irish citizens in Nigeria and the other countries
of accreditation to make contact with the Embassy and register on
the Department of Foreign Affairs consular registration site (see
link provided below).


Ireland's Honorary Consuls General in Freetown play a key
role in the provision of emergency and other consular services to
Irish citizens on theground.


.”


Visa Services


From 25 May 2009, residents of Nigeria who wish to apply for Irish
visas should do so at one of the two designated Visa Application
Centres (VACs) operated by VFS Global Ltd in Lagos and Abuja.
Please click on the Visa page
for further information and details


Individuals resident in Ghana may submit their applications to the
Visa Facilitation Service in Accra, F298/5, 5th Norla Link, North
Labone Estate, Near UNHCR office at Labone,
Accra. Tel:+ 233 21 768 417 F:+ 233 21 769 018


In Sierra Leone, applications can be submitted at the Honorary
Consulate General of Ireland, 8 Rawdon Street, First Floor,
Freetown, Sierra Leone;

Tel: 00232-22-224223 - Fax No: 00232-22-223687; E-mail:
Eirecon-Freetown@wasltd.com

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:34:03 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Authentication of Documents]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51325</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Introduction


The Department of Foreign Affairs can Authenticate\Apostille
documents executed in Ireland that are to be used in other
countries.Irish Diplomatic and
Consular Missions abroad can legalise documents executed
abroad for use in Ireland.

Authenticating a document simply means confirming that a signature,
seal or stamp appearing on the document is genuine.
Legalising a document means authenticating it for the purpose of
making it acceptable to an Irish court.

Authentication and Legalisation do not mean that the content of a
document is accurate or that the Department of Foreign Affairs
approves of the content.


Why do documents need to be Authenticated\Apostilled?


If you are going to use Irish documents overseas, for business or
personal reasons, you may be asked to have your documents
Authenticated\Apostilled by the Department of Foreign Affairs. You
should therefore confirm with the authority to whom you are
presenting the documents what their requirements are with regard to
Authentication\Legalisation.


What is an Apostille?


The 1961 Hague Convention abolished the requirement for Foreign
Public Documents (e.g. birth, death and marriage certificates,
documents issued by a Notary Public) to be legalised for countries
that are parties to the Convention. The Convention entered into
force for Ireland on 9 March 1999. For further information on the
Hague Convention please access their website.

However, countries that are parties to the Convention may request
the bearer of a document issued by a public authority to obtain an
Apostille from the Authorities of the country that issued the
document.

An Apostille involves the addition of a certificate, either stamped
on the document itself or attached to it. It certifies the country
of origin of the document, the identity and capacity in which the
document has been signed and the name of any authority which has
affixed a seal or stamp to the document.


Documents we can Authenticate\Apostille


The Department of Foreign Affairs can Authenticate\Apostille
documents of Irish origin provided that they bear an original
signature, seal or stamp from an Irish practising public official
or organisation. An Irish document means that it originated or has
been executed in Ireland. If a practising Irish solicitor, Notary
Public or Commissioner for Oaths is signing a document they should
state clearly what exactly it is they are certifying in relation to
the document. They must sign their own name and not use a company
signature.


Examples of Documents the Department can Authenticate\Apostille
are:


The Department of Foreign Affairs can Authenticate\Apostille public
documents which have been executed in the territory of One
Contracting State and which have to be produced in the territory of
another Contracting State.


Examples:



Original certificates issued by the General Registers
Office (GRO)


Company documents issued by the Companies Registration Office


Documents signed by the Chambers of Commerce in Ireland


Court documents, Powers of Attorney, and other Notarial Acts can be
Authenticated provided they bear an original signature, seal or
stamp from a practising Irish solicitor\ Notary Public in Ireland


Educational Certificates can be Authenticated provided they fall
within the National Framework of Qualifications established by the
National
Qualifications Authority of Ireland\are recognised
by the Department of Education.


We can also Authenticate\Apostille medical reports signed by a
doctor who is registered with the Medical Council of Ireland.



An appointment is necessary for large numbers of documents and for
full foreign adoption dossiers.


Photocopies of DocumentsWe can
Authenticate\Apostille photocopies of certain types of documents
provided they have been certified by a practising Irish Solicitor
or Notary Public in Ireland. However, you should in the first
instance confirm with the authority to whom you are presenting the
document that a certified copy will be acceptable to them.


How to get your Document Authenticated\Apostilled


Documents that have been executed in Ireland, and which are to be
Authenticated or Apostilled by the Department can be:


Presented to the Department at its Public Office at the following
address:


Consular Section
Department of Foreign Affairs
Hainault House
69 - 71 St. Stephen’s Green
Dublin 2


or sent via post to:


Consular Section
Department of Foreign Affairs
80 St. Stephen's Green
Dublin 2


Documents sent by post must include the
following:
A brief covering letter stating your name, return address,
telephone number, you must state what country the document(s) are
for use in, and you must include the appropriate
fee.


Tel. (01) 408 2174
(01) 408 2322
(01) 408 2061
(01) 408 2576

For the Munster area:


Consular Services,
Department of Foreign Affairs,
1A South Mall,
Cork

Tel: 021 4944765 / 021 4944766


Opening Hours:The opening hours for the
Public Offices in Dublin and Cork are as follows:
Monday - Friday (excluding Bank Holidays)
0930 - 1300
1430 - 1600

FeesA fee of €20 is charged for each
Apostille or Authentication. There is a standard fee of
€50 for a series of Apostilles or Authentications in relation
to inter-country adoptions.


Please note that there may be an additional administration fee if
applying for these services from our officesabroad. Fees will
be notified on request.


Methods of Payment
This section relates to services available at the Department of
Foreign Affairs in Dublin and Cork.


Payment can be made by Cash, Cheque (made payable to 'Department of
Foreign Affairs'), Postal Order, Bank Draft, or by Credit\Debit
card.


It should be noted that all cheques must be drawn on an Irish bank.


Legalisation


Irish Diplomatic and Consular Missions abroad can legalise
documents executed abroad for use in Ireland.


Administering oaths, affirmations and
statutory declarations and certifying copies of documents:


Irish Diplomatic and Consular Officers abroad are empowered under
Irish law to administer oaths, affirmations and statutory
declarations. They can also certify copies of original Irish
documents or translations. 


If you require any of these services, contact your nearest
   Irish Diplomatic or Consular
   Mission.


The fee for these services in local currency and methods of payment
will be notified, on request, by the relevant Mission.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 31 Mar 2010 10:23:02 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Travel Advice for Sierre Leone]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83203</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
TRAVEL INSURANCE


The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that
comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is
obtained before travelling to Sierra Leone.Travellers should
note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency
medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.


ENTRY REQUIREMENTS


For entry requirements for Sierra Leone, please contact the nearest Embassy
or Consulate.


It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport
with you.During your stay you should carry a photocopy of
your passport at all times.


SAFETY &amp;amp; SECURITY


Stability in Sierra Leone is improving. Road accidents, medical
risks including malaria and theft present the greatest potential
danger to expatriates and travellers in Sierra Leone.


Groups of youths, demonstrations, large crowds and political
gatherings should be avoided at all times.


Recent clashes have been reported in the Tongo area of
Koidu district in the wake of a local council
bye-election. Neighbouring Guinea remains politically fragile and
therefore, local advice should be sought before travelling to areas
near the border with Guinea.


The threat from terrorism is low, but you should be aware of the
global risk of indiscriminate attacks, which could be against
civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners


CRIME


Pickpocketing, muggings and armed break-ins occur in Freetown.


Irish citizens should ensure that their accommodation is well
secured. Care should be taken at night particularly around beach
bars and nightclubs as well as in central Freetown.


You should avoid carrying valuables in public and be vigilant at
all times, especially at night.


LOCAL LAWS &amp;amp; CUSTOMS


The majority of Sierra Leoneans are Muslim and Sierra Leone has a
tolerant Islamic culture. You should be sensitive to this
when travelling throughout the Country.


You should not become involved with drugs of any kind. All precious
stones require an export licence. Those who commit criminal
offences, including drug trafficking and diamond smuggling can
expect to be subjected to local law. There are heavy
penalties for those convicted. Local prison conditions are harsh.


Homosexuality is illegal in Sierra Leone.


ROAD SAFETY


The roads in Sierra Leone are in poor condition and traffic
accidents are a frequent hazard. The use of local motorbikes, buses
and taxis should be avoided as such vehicles are poorly
maintained. Outside Freetown, roads are unlit and the road
surface is poor. Driving and road conditions deteriorate
significantly during the rainy season (May to November).
Travel after dark should be avoided.


HEALTH


Medical facilities are generally very basic in Sierra Leone. You
should ensure that you have comprehensive travel and medical
insurance, which covers a provision for medical evacuation. You
should check anyexclusions, and that your policy covers you for the
activities you want to undertake.


You should consult with your doctor well in advance of travelling
to Sierra Leone about necessary inoculations and precautions and
current travel health notices. You should also consult your doctor
about anti-malarial measures.


DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR MISSIONS


The Embassy of Ireland in Abuja in Nigeria is accredited
to Sierra Leoneand there is an Honorary Consul General of
Ireland in Freetown- for contact details, please click
here (Opens in new window)

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:19:51 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Travel Advice for Liberia]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83202</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
SAFETY &amp;amp; SECURITY


Irish citizens are advised against all non-essential travel to
Liberia. The security situation remains unpredictable and the risk
of violence high, particularly outside the capital city of
Monrovia. If you consider that your travel to Liberia is
essential, you should be vigilant at all times, seek local advice
before travelling, ensure that your local host organisation has the
capacity to ensure your safety and your family know your travel
plans and timings.


Following violent unrest on 26-27 February 2010, the area around
Voinjama in Lofa County in the North of Liberia should be
avoided.


TRAVEL INSURANCE


If you decide to travel to Liberia, the Department of Foreign
Affairs strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel
insurance, including medical insurance. Travellers should note that
the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical
repatriation or for repatriation of remains.


ENTRY REQUIREMENTS


For entry requirements for Liberia, please contact the
nearest
Liberian Embassy or Consulate.


It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport
with you.During your stay you should carry a photocopy of
your passport at all times.


CRIME


Crime – including violent crime – is high and has increased in
Monrovia and elsewhere, and is often directed against
foreigners. You should avoid carrying valuables in public and
be vigilant at all times, especially at night.


You are advised not to become involved with drugs of any
kind. Local prison conditions are harsh.


ROAD SAFETY


Travelling by road is hazardous in Liberia. Even minor traffic
accidents in Liberia have been known to escalate into riots. The
use of local motorbikes, buses and taxis should be avoided as such
vehicles are poorly maintained. Outside Monrovia, roads are
often in very poor condition: almost all roads are unlit and the
road surface is poor. Driving and road conditions deteriorate
significantly during the rainy season (May to November).
Travel after dark should be avoided.


HEALTH


In most parts of Liberia, medical facilities are very basic. You
should ensure that you have comprehensive travel and medical
insurance, which covers a provision for medical evacuation. You
should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for
the activities you want to undertake.


You should consult with your doctor well in advance of travelling
to Liberia about necessary inoculations and precautions and current
travel health notices. You should also consult your doctor about
anti-malarial measures.


Waterborne diseases, malaria and other tropical diseases are
prevalent; there have been outbreaks of yellow fever.
HIV/AIDS infection rates are high.


There are seasonal and sporadic outbreaks of cholera, normally
associated with poor sanitation and a lack of access to clean
drinking water. We advise that you take particular care and
recommend that you drink only boiled/bottled water.


DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR MISSIONS


The Embassy of Ireland in Abuja in Nigeria is accredited
to Liberia - for contact details, please click here. (opens in
new window)

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:57:11 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Applications in Nigeria]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51318</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
All visa applicants aged 6 years and older must appear in person at
the VFS Visa Application Centres in Abuja or to lodge their visa
applications. Fingerprints will be recorded during the application
process. Persons between the ages of 6 and 17 years (inclusive)
should be accompanied by their parent/guardian or other responsible
adult while their prints are being taken.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:55:38 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Visas]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51314</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
APPLICATIONS IN NIGERIA


From 25 May 2009, residents of Nigeria who wish to apply for Irish
visas should do so at one of the two designated Visa Application
Centres (VACs) operated by VFS Global Ltd. They are located at:


Ireland Visa Application Centre,


1st Floor, 16, Billingsway,


Oregun Industrial Area, Ikeja, Lagos;


and


Ireland Visa Application Centre


No.38, Lobito Crescent,


Wuse II. Abuja


Helpline09 8701519


Email: info.ieng@vfshelpline.com


Website: www.vfsglobal-ie-ng.com


These centres are open Monday to Friday, from 0800-1500. Applicants
must attend in person. Prior appointments are not necessary. The
application documents should include a completed 
questionnaire (PDF 32kb) , available at our website
www.embassyofireland.org.ng.
All other documentary requirements, as listed on the Embassy’s
website, remain the same.


From March 2010, the
Irish Government will begin collecting biometric data in the form
of fingerprints as part of the visa application process. All visa
who are aged 6 years and over will be required to provide their
fingerprints at one of the Visa Application Centres in Abuja or
Lagos. VFS Global Ltd are authorised to collect fingerprint data on
behalf of the Irish Government.


VFS Global Ltd will forward the applications to the Embassy who
will process and issue the visas, as appropriate. Application
decisions and papers will be returned directly to the applicants by
the Embassy, therefore applicants are advised to submit a prepaid
envelope along with their application from any of the Courier
service companies - DHL, FEDEX, UPS.


The Embassy's visa information line is 09 462 0612.


Visa applications will be processed in the fastest possible time
following their arrival in the Visa Section in Abuja. However, to
avoid delays in the issue of your visa, it is strongly advised that
all applications are made at least EIGHT WEEKS prior to expected
departure date, and that ALL supporting documentation is included
with your application.


Please note that applications lodged in the VFS Lagos office will
take a minimum of 10 working days to process, given transfer times
from Lagos to Abuja.


Telephone enquiries relating to visas are taken from Monday to
Thursday,


12.00PM – 2.00PM on09 4620612


The Visa office is closed on Fridays


Visa enquiries by email: Contact
Us


Please click below todownload the Questionnaire



Questionnaire to accompany all visa applications (PDF 32kb)


APPLICATIONS FROM GHANA,


From Tuesday 21st April 2009, residents of GHANA will have to
submit their application to the Visa Application Centre, (VAC) of
VFS at


F298/5, 5th Norla Link,


North Labone Estate,


Near UNHCR office at Labone, Accra


Tel:+ 233 21 768 417 F:+ 233 21 769 018


http://ie.vfsglobal.com.gh/


Please note that it is also possible for residents of LIBERIA,
SENEGAL and CHAD to also submit their applications at the VFS
Centre in Accra.


Application from Liberia, Chad and Senegal


Alternatively, they may send their applications by Post or Courier
servicedirectly to the Embassy of Ireland, No11 Negro
Crescent Maitama District, Abuja.Please note that
as you are required to send passports and original personal
documentation, a courier service may be more efficient and secure.
Please ensure that you have a prepaid envelope by either post or
courier for return purposes so we can send the package back to you
with your decision and original documentation. Visa fees are
payable by Bank Draft in EURO made payable to Department of Foreign
Affairs, Ireland. The bank draft should be included in the
application package.


The Embassy is not responsible for documents lost either by post or
courier.


Telephone enquiries relating to visas are taken from Monday to
Thursday, 12.00pM – 2.00PM on 09 4131752 or 09 4620612


The Visa Office is closed to the public on Fridays


Visa enquiries by email: Contact
Us



Questionnaire to accompany all Visa applications (PDF 32kb)


APPLICATIONS IN SIERRE LEONE


FROM SIERRE LEONE, Applications should be submitted to the Honorary
Consul General of Sierre Leone, Consul-Genaral of Ireland to Sierra
Leone CONSULATE-GENERAL OF IRELAND, 8, Rawdon Street, First Floor,
Freetown, Sierra Leone.


Tel: 00232-22-224223 - Fax No: 00232-22-223687


E-mail: Eirecon-Freetown@wasltd.com



ALL APPLICATIONS


Telephone enquiries relating to visas are taken from Monday to
Thursday, 12.00pM – 2.00PM on 09 4131752 or 09 4620612


The Visa Office is closed to the public on Fridays


Visa enquiries by email: Contact Us



Questionnaire to accompany all visa applications (PDF 32kb)


THE EMBASSY REQUIRES A COMPLETE PHOTOCOPY SET OF ANY DOCUMENTS
SUBMITTED TO THE EMBASSY. THIS INCLUDES A FULL COPY OF YOUR
PASSPORT I.E. PAGES 1 – 32 . PLEASE NOTE THIS REQUIREMENT CAREFULLY
TO ENSURE THE APPLICATION IS NOT REJECTED. PLEASE SEPARATE THE
ORIGINALS FROM THE PHOTOCOPIES.


ENSURE THAT YOUR BANK STATEMENTS ARE LEGIBLE TO READ AND ARE NOT IN
ENVELOPES FILES AND FOLDER. WE DO NOT ACCEPT ANY MICROFINANCE
STATEMENTS AS WELL AS ANY MORTGAGE STATEMENTS.


A zero-tolerance policy applies with respect to fraudulent
applications. An application which contains a deception (such as a
false document, a false statement or withheld information) will be
refused, and no appeal will be permitted. If an application is
submitted as part of a group all applications in that group will be
refused with no appeal. From 1 September 2008, where applications
are rejected on grounds of a deception, a visa ban of five years
will also be applied.


Thank you


Visa Office

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:17:03 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Who needs a Visa?]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51315</link>
					<description><![CDATA[       

Citizens of certain countries require an entry visa for Ireland.


If you are a citizen of a country that is on schedule 1
below,you do NOT require an entry visa for Ireland.
Citizens of countries which are not on the list must apply for a
visa before they travel to Ireland.


Please note that a Schengen or UK visa or residence
permission is NOT valid for travel to Ireland. If you
area national ofa visa-required country you will need
to apply for an Irish visa in advance of travel to Ireland.


Transit VisasARE required by citizens of the
countries listed in schedule 2 below.

All citizens of non-EU countries, whether they require a
visa or not, are subject to immigration control at the point of
entry to Ireland.


SCHEDULE 1



LIST OF COUNTRIES
WHOSE PASSPORT HOLDERS DO NOT REQUIRE VISAS TO ENTER
IRELAND:


ANDORRA
ANTIGUA and BARBUDA
ARGENTINA
AUSTRALIA
AUSTRIA
BAHAMAS
BARBADOS
BELGIUM
BELIZE
BOLIVIA
BOTSWANA
BRAZIL
BRUNEI
BULGARIA
CANADA
CHILE
COSTA RICA
CROATIA
CYPRUS
CZECH REPUBLIC
DENMARK
DOMINICA
EL SALVADOR
ESTONIA
FIJI
FINLAND
FRANCE
GERMANY
GREECE
GRENADA
GUATEMALA
GUYANA
HONDURAS
HONG KONG (Special Administrative Region) (*See further information
below).
HUNGARY
ICELAND
ISRAEL
ITALY
JAPAN
KIRIBATI
LATVIA
LESOTHO
LIECHTENSTEIN
LITHUANIA
LUXEMBOURG
MACAU (Special Administrative Region)
MALAWI
MALAYSIA
MALDIVES
MALTA
MEXICO
MONACO
NAURU
NETHERLANDS
NEW ZEALAND
NICARAGUA
NORWAY
PANAMA
PARAGUAY
POLAND
PORTUGAL
ROMANIA
SAINT KITTS &amp;amp; NEVIS
SAINT LUCIA
SAINT VINCENT &amp;amp; THE GRENADINES
SAMOA
SAN MARINO
SEYCHELLES
SINGAPORE
SLOVAK REPUBLIC
SLOVENIA
SOLOMON ISLANDS
SOUTH AFRICA
SOUTH KOREA
SPAIN
SWAZILAND
SWEDEN
SWITZERLAND
TAIWAN
TONGA
TRINIDAD &amp;amp; TOBAGO
TUVALU
UNITED KINGDOM&amp;amp; Dependent Territories (noted below)
UNITED STATES of AMERICA
URUGUAY
VANUATU
VATICAN CITY
VENEZUELA


BRITISH DEPENDENT TERRITORIES



ANGUILLA
BERMUDA
BRITISH ANTARCTIC TERRITORY (South Georgia, South Sandwich
Islands)
BRITISH INDIAN OCEAN TERRITORIES(Chagos Archipelago, Peros
Banos, Diego Garcia, Danger Island)
CAYMAN ISLANDS
FALKLAND ISLANDS and DEPENDICIES
GIBRALTAR
MONTSERRAT
PITCAIRN (Henderson, Ducie and Oneno Islands)
St. HELENA and DEPENDICIES (Ascension Island, Tristan Da
Cunha)
The SOVERIGN BASE AREAS of AKROTIRI and DHEKILA
TURKS and CAICOS ISLAND
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS


*HONG KONG SAR


A person in possession of a Hong Kong certificate of identity
requires an entry visa for the State.


Personswho are holders of aBritish Hong
Kong Passportwho have a right of abode in Great
Britain do not require entry visas.


Personswho are holders of aBritish Hong
Kong Passportwho have a right of abode in Hong Kong
only do not require entry visas but they are subject to full
foreign national controls in respect of registration, permission to
remain,work permits etc.


CONVENTION TRAVEL DOCUMENTS


Visas are not required by persons who are holders
ofConvention travel documents issued by the following
countries:


BELGIUM
CZECH REPUBLIC
DENMARK
FINLAND
GERMANY
ICELAND
ITALY
LIECHTENSTEIN
LUXEMBOURG
MALTA
NETHERLANDS
NORWAY
POLAND
PORTUGAL
ROMANIA
SLOVAKIA
SPAIN
SWEDEN
SWITZERLAND.


Applicants who are holders of Convention travel documents issued by
EEA states should refer to Article 3 of the
   
Immigration Act 2004 Order 2009 (PDF
109kb)(Shortvisits
only).
 

SCHEDULE 2


TRANSIT VISAS ARE REQUIRED BY
CITIZENS OF THE FOLLOWING:



AFGHANISTAN
ALBANIA
CUBA
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
ERITREA
ETHIOPIA
GHANA
IRAN
IRAQ
LEBANON
MOLDOVA
MONTENEGRO
NIGERIA
SERBIA
SOMALIA
SRI LANKA
ZIMBABWE

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 15:16:09 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Living & Working in Ireland]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=76001</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Practicalities of Moving to Ireland
A detailed guide can be found on the Citizens Information website.

Education in IrelandHere you
will find a description of theEducation system in Ireland and
also a series of links to information on Primary, Secondary and
Third Level Education.


Deptartment of
Education and Science

Working
in Ireland
The rights of EU nationals and non-EU nationals for working in
Ireland.


Department of
Enterprise, Trade and Employment
Health Care
in Ireland
An outline of health care services in Ireland, including public and
private health care, and health insurance.


Deptartment of
Education and Science

Useful Links for
Employment Seekers
A useful starting point for job seekers is F&#193;S - Ireland's National
Training and Employment Authority.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 11 Sep 2009 11:08:21 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[The Economy]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=75991</link>
					<description><![CDATA[


General Information



10 Key Facts on the Irish Economy 




Public Finances



National Development Plan



Population, Labour Force and Employment



EU Membership



Ireland and the Euro



Monetary Policy



Inward Investment



Outward Investment



Education &amp;amp; Training



Innovation and R&amp;amp;D



Corporation Tax



E-commerce and the New Economy



State-sponsored Bodies



Exports



Imports



General Government Balance



Industry



Foreign Direct Investment



Irish Enterprise Sector



Finance



Services



Industrial relations



Agricualture



Fishing



Tourism



Transport



Energy



Mining/Quarrying



Telecommunications



Newspapers



Radio &amp;amp; Television



The Irish economy has
experienced extraordinary growth over the past fifteen years.
Consolidating the progress made during the 1990s - characterised as
the “Celtic Tiger” phenomenon - it is now one of the world’s most
dynamic, open and globalised economies, with extensive external
trade and investment links. Ireland has consistently topped
the economic growth tables of the 30-member OECD (Organisation for
Economic Cooperation and Development) and has close to full
employment. GDP growth in 2007 was 5.3% and average income
per head was approximately 145% of the EU average. All
indications are that Ireland will continue to perform well in terms
of GDP growth.


Ireland’s economic success is generally attributed to its highly
educated and flexible workforce; its social partnership model,
which involves close cooperation between government, trade unions
and employers; government measures to ensure macroeconomic
stability and government policies to attract foreign investment;
and membership of the EU, which now provides a market of almost 500
million people.


Ireland has a consistent record of prudent fiscal policy with an
average Government budget surplus of 1.6% of GDP over the past ten
years. The fourth seven-year National Development Plan, which
was launched by the Government in January 2007, provides for total
capital investment of €100 billion (5.4% of GDP) and current
expenditure of €84 billion.


Over the past five years, Irish trade has grown three times faster
than total world trade, with over 80% of all manufacturing output
in Ireland sold in international markets. In an Economist
Intelligence Unit (EIU) survey from 2006, Ireland is ranked as one
of the top countries in the world in which to do business. It
has developed a strong entrepreneurial culture and has one of the
highest rates of new start-up companies in the world.


Ireland is a leading location for Information Communication
Technology (ICT), pharmaceuticals and medical devices, and Dublin
is one of the fastest growing funds management locations in the
world. Ireland is also the centre for digital media in Europe
with major multinational companies locating their European
headquarters and a range of business support activities here.


Ireland has developed as a knowledge-based economy built on
innovation and technology and shaped by the emergence of strong
technology-led and export-focused companies. The Government’s 2006
– 2013 strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation emphasises
the benefits of international collaboration and places research and
development at the heart of Ireland’s economic development. Science
Foundation Ireland (SFI) contributes to enhancing research
capabilities and skills in Irish Universities, particularly in
biotechnology, and information and communications technology.


Ireland receives the top long-term and short-term credit ratings
from all four major international credit rating agencies. These are
based, in particular, on the strong public finances; the favourable
demographic structure and future pension liabilities; a diversified
and flexible economy that has attracted sustained foreign direct
investment inflows in recent years and achieved the highest growth
rate in the EU since 1995; a low debt burden; a high degree of
fiscal flexibility, the business-friendly regulatory environment;
low taxation levels and a highly educated workforce.



Top of Page


10 Key Facts on the Irish Economy


Please click 
here (PDF 34kb) to access the PDF version of this
document.


Public Finances


There is general agreement among the main political parties on the
broad direction of economic and social policy. National
programmes involving the Government, trade unions, employers,
voluntary organisations and farming representatives acting together
as ‘social partners’ have successfully operated over many years to
bring about economic and social improvement.



Top of Page


National Development Plan


The National Development Plan 2007-2013, entitled Transforming
Ireland - A Better Quality of Life for All, was launched in January
2007. The Plan is the largest and most ambitious investment
programme ever proposed for Ireland. It builds on, and
consolidates, the achievements of the previous National Development
Plan (2000 – 2006) and provides for a total investment of €183.7
billion: €54.7 billion for investment in economic infrastructure;
€49.6 billion for social inclusion measures (children, people with
disabilities, etc.); €33.6 billion for social infrastructure
(housing, health, justice, etc.); €25.8 billion for human capital
(schools, training, higher education, etc.), and €20 billion for
enterprise, science and innovation.


National Development
Plan



Top of Page


Population, Labour Force, and Employment


Reversing decades of decline, Ireland’s population has been
steadily increasing since the 1970s, and now stands at over 4.23
million (2007). This is the highest population figure since
the census of 1861 when the population is recorded as 4.4
million. Unemployment was 4.6% in June 2007.



Top of Page


EU Membership


Ireland’s accession to the EEC in 1973 was a decisive milestone in
opening Ireland to the global economy and reducing its economic
dependence on the UK. Since accession, per capita GDP in
Ireland has increased from almost 60% of the EU average in 1973 to
well over 100% today. Since 1973, the proportion of exports
to non-UK destinations has increased from 45% to over 83% today.



Top of Page


Ireland and the Euro


The ease with which Ireland qualified for membership of the Euro in
1999 underlined the dramatic improvement in the country’s economy
and public finances. Membership of the Euro was embraced by
Ireland’s internationally oriented business community, which viewed
it as a logical step in the further integration of European markets
and as a boost to Ireland’s credibility as a location for
internationally mobile investment.



Top of Page


Monetary Policy


In May 1998, Ireland, having satisfied entry criteria covering
public finances, the exchange rate, the interest rate and
inflation, qualified as one of the first round of participants to
adopt the new EU currency. Along with 11 other EU Member States,
Ireland now participates in Economic and Monetary Union which
commenced on 1 January 1999. The Euro was introduced as the unit of
currency on 1 Jan 2002.


On 1 January 1999 the Eurosystem,
comprising the European Central Bank (ECB) and National
Central Banks (NCBs) of the EU Member States which adopted the
euro, assumed the task of formulating and implementing the single
monetary policy for the euro area. The objective of the single
monetary policy is price stability. In order to make the
appropriate interest-rate decisions to maintain price stability,
the ECB, along with all other major central banks, has a clear and
coherent conceptual framework for the policy-making process. This
is referred to as the monetary-policy strategy.



Top of Page


Inward Investment


Inward investment has been critically important to Ireland’s
economic development, providing tens of thousands of jobs,
disseminating technological know-how and expertise within the wider
economy, linking up with indigenous industry, boosting
productivity, and underpinning export growth.



Top of Page


Outward Investment


Outward investment by Irish companies has increased noticeably in
recent years, albeit from a very low historic base. This emerging
trend is consistent with the pattern observed in other economies as
they move to higher stages of economic development.



Top of Page


Education and Training


Education and Training is a vital component of Ireland’s
knowledge-based economy, and is a priority investment under the
National Development Plan. Ireland enjoys one of the best
education systems in the world, with approximately 1 million people
in full time education.



Top of Page


Innovation and R&amp;amp;D


R+D in Ireland has expanded dramatically in recent years reflecting
the Irish government’s massive injection of funding into the
sector. Leading global companies have found Ireland to be an
excellent location for knowledge-based activities. The young Irish
workforce has shown a particular aptitude for the efficient
collection, interpretation and dissemination of research
information.



Top of Page


Corporation Tax


Since 2003 Ireland’s corporate tax regime has been fixed at a rate
of 12.5%. This applies to all Irish corporate trading
profits. A rate of 25% applies to non-trading (passive)
income. Existing overseas operations, which were eligible for
a 10% rate, will retain entitlement to this rate until the end of
the year 2010.



Top of Page


E-Commerce and the New Economy


The Irish government has moved decisively to prepare Ireland for
the e-commerce age. Initiatives undertaken include the
liberalisation of the telecommunications market, a substantial
investment programme in broadband infrastructure and introduction
of the most e-commerce friendly regulatory environment in Europe.


Ireland is acknowledged to be one of the most outward looking and
open economies in the EU. It is therefore sensitive to
changes in the global economy.



Top of Page


State-Sponsored Bodies


There are about 100 State-sponsored bodies in Ireland employing
about 57,000 people. They are engaged in a wide variety of
activities including transport, energy and the promotion of
tourism, trade and industrial development.


During the 1990s the Government privatised certain sectors of the
economy including steel and telecommunications. In addition,
the Government has liberalised such sectors as air transportation
and electricity generation.


There is more information about the State-sponsorded bodies in the
Business in Ireland Section.



Top of Page


Exports


In 2007 Ireland’s exports amounted to €88.6 billion. In 2006
the principal destinations for Irish exports were: United States
18%, Great Britain 18%, Belgium 14.3%, Germany 7.5% and France 6%.
The top five categories of Irish Exports for 2006 were: medical
&amp;amp; pharmaceutical products, organic chemicals, office machines
&amp;amp; automatic data processing machines, electrical machinery,
apparatus &amp;amp; appliances &amp;amp; parts and miscellaneous
manufactured articles. In 2006, exports of services were valued at
€55 billion.



Top of Page


Imports


In 2007, Ireland’s imports were valued at €62.1 billion. The
principal sources of imports were Great Britain 30%, United States
11.3%, Germany 9%, China 8% and Netherlands 4.2%. The top
five categories of Irish Imports for 2006 were: office machines
&amp;amp; automatic data processing machines, electrical machinery,
apparatus &amp;amp; appliances &amp;amp; parts, road vehicles (include
air-cushion vehicles), miscellaneous manufactured articles and
petroleum, petroleum products &amp;amp; related materials. Imports of
services were valued at €62 billion, Irelands main services
partners were the US, Great Britain, Germany and Italy.



Top of Page


General Government Balance


The Exchequer recorded a surplus of 0.5% of GDP in 2007. The
projected budgetary position over the period 2008 - 2009 is for a
General Government budget deficit of 0.9% of GDP in 2008 and a
deficit of 1.1% of GDP in 2009. The debt-to-GDP ratio will be
maintained among the lowest in the euro area – around 28% for the
forecast period – in line with the Government’s long-term
priorities. The market value of the assets of the National
Pensions Reserve Fund is estimated to be €21 billion at end 2007, a
sum equivalent to 13% of GNP.



Top of Page


Industry


The Industrial sector has a highly skilled technological labour
pool. Within this high technology grouping, the most active sectors
currently are life sciences, medical and information technology
sectors. Many of the world’s leading companies have
subsidiaries in Ireland which perform very successfully in
comparison to those based in other EU countries.


Three agencies deal with industrial development in Ireland. Forf&#225;s
provides overall policy advice and co-ordination for enterprise
development and science, technology and innovation in Ireland.
Enterprise Ireland helps develop Irish-based enterprise with the
potential to trade internationally. IDA Ireland, has responsibility
for securing new investment in manufacturing and internationally
traded services. It also has responsibility to encourage existing
Foreign Direct Investors to expand and develop their businesses in
Ireland.


There are also a number of regional development agencies such as
Shannon Development which was set up in 1959 to promote Shannon
International Airport and &#218;dar&#225;s na Gaeltachta, which is the
regional authority responsible for the economic, social and
cultural development of the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking parts of the
country).



Top of Page


Foreign Direct Investment


Over 1000 overseas companies have established operations in
Ireland. They are a key driver of the economy employing some
135,000 people directly and many more indirectly. They
account for one quarter of GDP and over 80% of exports. The
focus of IDA Ireland is to attract foreign investment that is of
high value, requiring high skill levels and a sophisticated
business environment.


Key areas of focus are:


-
advanced manufacturing projects in the ICT,pharmaceuticals
and biopharmaceuticals, medical technologies,engineering and
consumer products sectors


- high
value internationally traded services sectors in software,
financial services, shared services and customer support activities


Shannon Development has responsibility for the Shannon Free Zone,
Ireland's largest cluster of North American investments. There are
110 companies in the free zone employing 7,500 people, with total
trade in the zone valued at €2.5 billion.



Top of Page


Irish Enterprise Sector


Enterprise Ireland client companies employ in excess of 141,091
people in Ireland (2006). Total export sales from Enterprise
Ireland clients were valued at €11,779 billion in 2006. The key
sectors in 2006 for Enterprise Ireland clients in order of exports
were Food and Retail, (€7,849 billion), Industrial and Life
Sciences, (€2,493 billion ), Software and services, (€1,437
billion). The largest export markets for Enterprise Ireland Clients
are Northern Europe (€6,740 billion), Southern Europe (€1,377
billion), America's (€1,299 billion), Germany, Central and Eastern
Europe (€849 million), Asia (€654 million), the Rest of the World
(€ 154 million).


&#218;dar&#225;s na Gaeltachta supports businesses in developing new
markets, technologies, products and strategic alliances through
research and development. Gaeltacht companies span a range of
commercial sectors, including tourism, fish processing and
aquaculture, renewable energy, food, life sciences, ICT, niche
manufacturing, audio visual and digital media, arts and crafts.
Over 12,000 people are employed in &#218;dar&#225;s na Gaeltachta client
companies.


InterTradeIreland is a North/South Implementation Body established
in 1999 pursuant to the Good Friday Agreement, promotes trade and
business on an all-island and cross-border basis, and works to
enhance the global competitiveness of the all-island economy to the
mutual benefit of Ireland and Northern Ireland.





National Development Plan




Foras &#193;iseanna
Saothair (National Training Authority)




Higher Education and
Training Awards Council




Further Education
and Training Awards Council




National Centre for
Partnership and Performance




National
Qualifications Authority of Ireland




National Standards
Authority of Ireland




Economic and Social
Research Institute




Science Foundation
Ireland




Irish Business and
Employers Confederation




Central Bank
of Ireland






Department of
Enterprise, Trade and Employment




Forf&#225;s




IDA
Ireland




Enterprise Ireland




Shannon
Development




&#218;dar&#225;s na
Gaeltachta




Intertrade Ireland






Top of Page


Finance


Dublin's International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), which was
set up by the Irish Government with EU approval in 1987, is
globally recognised as a leading location for a range of
internationally traded financial services, including banking, asset
financing, fund management, corporate treasury management,
investment management, custody and administration and specialized
insurance operations.


More than 430 international operations are approved to trade in the
IFSC, while a further 700 managed entities are approved to carry on
business under the IFSC programme. The centre is host to half
of the world's top 50 banks and to half of the top 20 insurance
companies. It is expected that the International Financial
Services Centre will continue to make a major contribution to
Ireland and the goal of policy is to ensure that we will continue
to attract new operations and provide a supportive business
environment for this important sector.





Department of
Finance




International
Financial Services Centre




Office of the
Comptroller and Auditor General




National Treasury
Management Agency





Top of Page

Services


The service sector in Ireland accounts for over half of GDP and for
65 per cent of employment. Throughout the last decade output of
services has grown strongly, largely as a result of growth in
financial services, telecommunications and tourism.



Top of Page


Industrial Relations


Over 50 per cent of the employee labour force are organised in
trade unions of which there are 50 in Ireland. The Irish Congress
of Trade Unions is the national co-ordinating body for most of
these. The Irish Business and Employers Confederation represents
the interests of employers at national level.


The Labour Relations Commission and the Labour Court are the
principal mediation bodies. Their role is to assist in the
settlement of disputes.





Department of
Enterprise, Trade and Employment




Labour Relations
Commission




Labour
Court




Equality
Authority




Irish Congress of
Trade Unions




Irish Business and
Employers Confederation






Top of Page


Agriculture


The Agri-Food industry makes a significant contribution to the
Irish economy. The combined agri-food and drink sector had
exports of over €8 billion in 2006 and accounts for almost 9% of
GDP and directly employs 166,000 people. In particular, the
industry plays a major role in the indigenous sector, with
approximately 50% of exports from Irish owned companies deriving
from agri-food and drink companies. The linkage of the
agri-food sector to the rest of the economy is exceptionally high
and, given its low import content, the sector currently contributes
in the order of 20% to net foreign earnings from merchandise
exports.


Of the total land area of approximately 7 million hectares (17
million acres), 5 million hectares (12.32 million acres) are
utilised for agricultural purposes (including forestry).
Cattle-raising and dairying are by far the most important sectors
of the agricultural industry, and livestock (mainly cattle) and
livestock products (principally milk), account for 76 per cent of
the value of gross agricultural output. The main crops are
barley, wheat, potatoes and mushrooms.





Department
of Agriculture and Food




Bord Bia




Teagasc
(Agriculture &amp;amp; Food Development Authority)




Food Safety Authority
of Ireland






Top of Page


Fishing


The Irish seafood industry provides employment for over 15,000
people. It makes a significant contribution to the economic
and social fabric of the many small communities located in mainly
rural areas or small towns and villages around the 7,500 kilometres
of our coastline.


Total Irish sales of
seafood in 2007 on the home and export markets amounted to €803
million which represents an increase of 9% on the previous
year. The main contributor to the growth in revenue was the
ongoing rapid growth of the domestic market with seafood sales to
the retail sector valued at €169 million, up by 7% on 2006 and
sales to food service valued at €213 million, an increase of
5%. The increase in sales was mainly driven by the growing
consumer awareness of the health and nutritional benefits of
seafood.


Approximately half of the increase in domestic seafood sales was
met through increased imports which grew by 16% to reach €144
million in 2006. In contrast, export sales were up by a mere
2% to reach €362.2 million. This was the result of sharply
opposite trends with pelagic fish exports (e.g. mackerel) falling
by 27% (€78.8 million) while increased exports were recorded for
all other categories, the most notable being the increase of 16% in
shellfish exports (€147 million).





Department of
Communications, Energy &amp;amp; Natural Resources




Bord Iascaigh
Mhara






Top of Page


Tourism


In 2007, overseas tourist visits to the whole island of Ireland
increased by more than 4% to 9.1 million, a new record. These
increases in visitor numbers, and the associated growth in tourist
spending, have provided the foundations on which the tourism
industry’s enhanced contribution to the national economy has been
built. Expenditure by visitors to Ireland, both North and
South, is estimated to be worth €4.5 billion in 2007. It is
estimated that the total number of people employed in the Irish
tourism and catering industry in 2007 was over 230,000. The
industry is Ireland’s biggest indigenous employer and is a major
contributor to the Irish economy. Allowing for indirect and induced
effects, tourism accounted for 3.8% of GNP in 2007.


Tourism Ireland was established under the framework of the Belfast
Agreement of Good Friday 1998 to co-ordinate the work of the two
tourist boards on the island, F&#225;ilte Ireland and the Northern
Ireland Tourist Board, who are responsible for product and
enterprise development and marketing to tourism consumers within
the island of Ireland.


Ireland’s successful tourism industry is built around the three
themes: Irish people; Irish culture and the physical beauty of the
country. The people of Ireland are recognised for being friendly,
charming and witty. They are attentive but relaxed and welcoming.
These characteristics allow our visitors to interact easily with
local people and connect with the island on a human level. Culture
on the island of Ireland reflects the character of its people and
the beauty of its landscape and historic sites. Visitors can vary
the pace of their holiday experience, from a relaxed appreciation
of the historic culture to a more active involvement in the vibrant
living culture. Ireland is also celebrated as a rich tapestry of
breathtaking landscapes and seascapes steeped in history creates a
varied experience for the visitor, all within easy reach. It is an
experience that fills the senses – an energising journey of
discovery and enrichment





Department of Arts, Sport &amp;amp; Tourism




F&#225;ilte
Ireland




Tourism
Ireland




Tourism
Information
(Domestic)






Top of Page


Transport


Coras Iompair &#201;ireann (CIE) is the national statutory public
transport service in Ireland. The CIE group of companies comprises
a holding company and three subsidiary operating companies which
provide train, bus, coach and ancillary services throughout the
country. Iarnr&#243;d &#201;ireann (Irish Rail) operates the nationwide
mainline rail services, the Dublin Area Rapid Transport (DART) and
other suburban rail services as well as rail freight services. Bus
&#201;ireann (Irish Bus) operates a comprehensive network of bus
services outside Dublin City, including expressway inter-urban
coach services; city buses in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford;
rural bus services; and international services. Bus &#193;tha Cliath
(Dublin Bus) operates urban bus services in the greater Dublin
area. The latest addition to the country’s public transport system
came with the opening of the Luas lines in 2004. Luas is a
Light Rail Transit (LRT) system (a public transport tram system)
that operates in Dublin.


An integrated transport system for Dublin, to include seven new
Luas projects, two Metro lines, an underground station at St.
Stephen's Green integrating all services and the Western Rail
Corridor are among the investments outlined in Transport 21, the
Government's €34.4 billion transport investment plan.


There is a significant investment programme underway upgrading the
national roads system. More than €16 billion is being spent
improving the inter-urban motorway network. This is undertaken by
the National Roads Authority.


The majority of passengers visiting Ireland use one of the main
airports - Dublin, Shannon and Cork. There are also a number of
regional airports throughout the country. Dublin Airport is
Ireland's busiest airport and is also amongst the ten busiest
airports in Europe. Dublin Airport manages an average of
60,000 passengers per day, rising to 80,000 during the peak season,
and more than 600 aircrafts movements every day. The Dublin Airport
Authority is investing €2 billion in new and improved facilities in
the airport.





Department of
Transport




Irish Aviation
Authority




Commission for
Aviation Regulation




Irish
Ferries




Iarnr&#243;d
&#201;ireann




Coras Iompair
&#201;ireann




Bus &#193;tha
Cliath




Bus &#201;ireann




Dublin Airport Authority




Aer Lingus




Ryanair




National Roads
Authority




Transport
21




Dublin
Airport






Top of Page


Energy


The Government’s Energy Policy Framework for the period 2007-2020
was published in March 2007. The policy aims to deliver a
sustainable energy future for Ireland. Although Ireland faces
similar energy challenges to those being confronted worldwide, the
Irish situation is made more acute by our small energy market,
peripherality and limited indigenous fuel resources.
Sustained economic growth and population growth also add to the
challenges for Irish energy policy. There are however major
opportunities to be realised in harnessing the full potential of
Ireland’s renewable and bioenergy resources.


The National Development Plan 2007-2013 will see some €8.5billion
in investment in energy, funded in part by the Exchequer, by the
Semi-State Energy Bodies and from other non-public sources.


While Ireland is totally dependent on imports for its oil supply,
the proportion of primary energy derived from oil has been reduced
significantly in the last decade in line with EU policy.


Ireland has a largely stand-alone electricity grid. An
electricity interconnector with Northern Ireland was
re-commissioned in 1995 and is used to optimise peak demand
management. Electricity demand has continued to rise,
however, and a major task for the electricity industry is to
increase generation resources in line with electricity demand.


There has been close cooperation with Northern Ireland on energy
issues over the past few years. A key outcome was the joint
publication of the All-island Energy Market Development Framework
in November 2004. The Framework sets out the commitment of
both Governments to achieving a single energy market.


The Electricity Supply Board (ESB) is the State-owned generator and
distributor of electricity. From 2000, under an EU Directive,
the electricity market is open to competition. The Commission
for Electricity Regulation, established in 1999, licences the
generation and supply of electricity.


Natural gas from Irish offshore fields is making an important
contribution towards energy requirements. Bord G&#225;is &#201;ireann (the
Gas Supply Board) is a State-owned company responsible for the
supply, transmission and distribution of natural gas. It
operates transmission lines bringing gas from Kinsale Head, off the
coast of Cork, and from the North Sea gas fields through a sub-sea
interconnector pipeline. Among new pipelines being added is a
major east/west gas pipeline to Galway.


Peat development in Ireland is undertaken by a State enterprise,
B&#243;rd na M&#243;na (Peat Development Board), which has been a world
leader in exploitation techniques. Ireland has one of the world’s
highest levels of peat output.



Top of Page


Mining and Quarrying


Ireland is a leading producer of zinc and lead. There are three
underground mines, Navan, Co. Meath, Lisheen, Co. Tipperary, and
Galmoy, Co. Kilkenny.


The three mines together account for approximately 40% of Western
European zinc metal, and 30% of its lead, all of which is exported
as concentrates. Ireland is also a significant producer of gypsum,
from an open-cast mine at Knocknacran, Co. Monaghan. The gypsum is
used in Ireland’s building industry, with some being exported.


The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources is
responsible for policy and regulation of mineral exploration and
mining. The Department is also charged with promotion of
exploration and development of Ireland’s minerals. On a day-to-day
basis, these responsibilities are dealt with by the Department’s
Exploration and Mining Division (EMD). EMD maintain two websites,
one of which is aimed at industry (www.minex.ie) and the other is for the
general public (www.emd.ie).


Ireland also has a significant quarrying industry, producing sand,
gravel and aggregate for the construction sector, and ground
limestone for agriculture. Quarrying is regulated by local
authorities.



Top of Page


Telecommunications


The Communications Regulator (ComReg) is the statutory body
responsible for the regulation of the electronic communications
sector (telecommunications, radio communications and broadcasting
transmission) and the postal sector.


Electronic communications in Ireland are among the most advanced
and sophisticated in Europe. Major providers of telecommunications
services include Eircom, BT, Vodafone, O2, Meteor and 3 Ireland.
Eircom, the principal provider of fixed line telecommunication
services was formerly a State-owned company, Telecom &#201;ireann. In
line with EU policy the telecommunications market in Ireland was
fully liberalised in 1998 and Telecom &#201;ireann was privatised in
1999. The organisation which manages the roll out of broadband on
behalf of the State in Ireland’s regional towns and cities is
E-Net. There is also a State-run telecommunications network, HEAnet
dedicated to linking the third level
institutions.


The Irish Government, by a combination of imaginative legislation,
high-quality infrastructure and favourable tax treatment, is
promoting Ireland as an e-commerce hub. The Electronic
Commerce Act, which came into force in 2000, signalled a flexible
approach to regulation and created equivalence in law between
electronic documents, contracts, signatures and seals and their
paper-based equivalents.


Ireland has major international fibre-optic connectivity. As
part of its policy of regionalisation, the Government has spent €65
million providing high speed broadband connectivity to 26 principal
towns around the country. A further 90+ towns are currently being
prepared for phase two of this project.


The Government is also supportive of the creation of a North/South
digital corridor and the provision of satellite-based broadband
services aimed at remote areas of the country. There is also a
commitment to ensure that every primary and secondary school
in the country will have broadband connectivity.





Department of
Communications, Energy and Natural Resources




Electricity Supply
Board




Bord G&#225;is




Bord na M&#243;na




Sustainable
Energy Ireland




Commission for Energy
Regulation




Commission for
Communications Regulations




E-Net




HEAnet






Top of Page


Newspapers


Newspapers have been published in Ireland for over 300 years. The
main morning daily broadsheet papers are The Irish Independent, The
Irish Times and The Irish Examiner. There are also two
evening newspapers, The Evening Herald and The Evening Echo and six
Sunday newspapers, The Sunday Tribune, The Sunday Independent, The
Sunday World, The Sunday Business Post, Irish Daily Mail on Sunday
and The Star on Sunday. There are two Irish language weekly
newspapers: L&#225; and Foinse.


There are also about 60 local newspapers usually published weekly
and a wide variety of magazines dealing with current affairs,
economic issues and leisure interests. British newspapers and
magazines circulate widely in Ireland and some titles publish
separate Irish editions.


In 2007 the Press Council of Ireland was established by the
Industry itself and in the same year the Government established the
Office of Press Ombudsman. Their main objectives are:


- to provide the public with an independent forum for resolving
complaints against the press;


- to resolve all complaints quickly, amicably and free of charge;


- to maintain the high standards of Irish journalism and
journalistic ethics;


- to defend the freedom of the press and the freedom of the public
to be informed.





The Irish
Times




Irish
Independent




Irish
Examiner




Sunday Business
Post




The Sunday
Times




Sunday
Independent




The Sunday
Tribune




Evening Echo




Foinse




Press Council
of Ireland (and Press Ombudsman)






Top of Page


Radio and Television


The National radio and television service is operated by Radio
Telef&#237;s &#201;ireann (RT&#201;), the public broadcasting company which
transmits on two television and five radio channels. RT&#201; derives
its revenue from licence fees and the sale of advertising time. In
addition to the wide availability of British radio and television
programming, satellite broadcasts are achieving an increasing
audience.


Irish speakers are served by a dedicated radio channel, Radio na
Gaeltachta (operated by RT&#201;) and by TG4, an independent Irish
language television channel.


The Radio and Television Act 1988 established the Broadcasting
Commission of Ireland (formally the Independent Radio and
Television Commission), which has responsibility for licensing and
overseeing the operation of independent radio and television
broadcasting. In recent years, quite a number of independent
regional radio stations and community radio initiatives have
emerged all over the country and have gained a substantial
audience. There are two national independent radio stations,
Today FM and Newstalk, and a national independent commercial
television station, TV3. Both Today FM and TV3 were launched in
1998. Newstalk was launched nationally in September 2006.





Radio Teilif&#237;s
&#201;ireann




TG4




TV3




Today FM




2 FM




Radio 1




Newstalk




Broadcasting
Commission of Ireland (BCI)






Top of Page

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2009 11:09:47 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Contact Us]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51291</link>
					<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:32:26 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Irish Citizens Travelling to USA]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=51305</link>
					<description><![CDATA[


Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)



Passport Requirements




Changes to Visa Waiver Program (VWP) - Emergency/Temporary
Passports




Electronic System for Travel
Authorization (ESTA)


ESTA is an electronic registration system requiring travellers who
are part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) to register in advance of
travelling to the USA. Mandatory registrationhas come into
force since 12 January 2009.


Visa Waiver travellers should register through the Department of
Homeland Security website at the following address: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.


Registration is free and may be done by third
parties e.g. travel agencies. Sites requesting payment for
registration should not be used.


ESTA applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel, and
once approved, generally will be valid for up to two years or until
the applicant's passport expires, whichever comes first.
Authorisations will be valid for multiple entries into the U.S. The
Department of Homeland Security recommends that ESTA applications
be submitted at least 72 hours in advance of travel.


An applicant who does not receive authorisation to travel will need
to go to their nearest U.S. Diplomatic or Consular Mission and
apply for a visa.


An ESTA approval does not determine admissibility into the United
States. The final decision for entry to the United States rests
with US immigration authorities at the port of entry.


The ESTA programme does not apply to Irish citizens who are holders
of a visa for the United States.


For more information on ESTA, please visit http://www.cbp.gov/ESTA


Passport Requirements
 

Since 16 June 2005 persons traveling to the United States have been
required to present a machine readable passport to avail of the
U.S. Visa Waiver Programme. Otherwise they must obtain a visa, in
advance, from their nearest U.S. Diplomatic or Consular Mission.


Ireland is one of the countries that can avail of visa waiver
status and has been issuing machine readable passports since 1993.





A machine readable passport has two lines of text in the form
of letters, numbers and chevrons (&amp;lt;&amp;lt;&amp;lt;) at the bottom of
the personal information page.


New passports issued by Visa Waiver Program countries after 25
October 2006 must be ePassports, which include an integrated
computer chip capable of storing biographic information from the
data page, as well as other biometric information, such as the
required digital photograph of the holder. Ireland commenced
issuing ePassports on 16 October, 2006.





You can identify an ePassport by the logo at the bottom
of the cover





Machine readable passports issued before 16 October 2006 are
still valid for travel to the US until their date of expiry.


Changes to Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Travel for Bearers of
Emergency/Temporary Passports


Ending the E-Passport Exemption


Passports issued by the Passport Office or by our Missions abroad
in emergency situations are not ePassports. Since the introduction
of the ePassport in 2006 requirement it has been possible for Irish
citizens to enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program
using one of these Passports. However, From July 1, 2009 the US
authorities will only permit entry to their territory on an
emergency passport if the traveller has been issued with a
Visa.


Irish Emergency Passport






You can recognise an Irish emergency Passport as it has a green
cover and contains only 8 pages. It is machine readable and has a
digital photograph.


Further information on entry requirements for the US can be found
at http://dublin.usembassy.gov/emergency_temp_ppts.html

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2009 09:17:25 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Ireland in Brief]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=75980</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
The attached booklet, entitled 
Ireland in Brief, provides a general overview of Ireland's
political, economic and cultural life. While it is not
possible to include every aspect of life in Ireland in this short
publication, we hope that you will discover a little about Ireland
and its people.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 05 Aug 2009 02:49:05 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
		
	</channel>
</rss>
