
<rss version="2.0">
	<channel>
		<title>English</title>
		<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32324</link>
		<description></description>
		<language>en</language>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Sep 2010 16:27:03 UTC</pubDate>
		
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Applications in Russia]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32353</link>
					<description><![CDATA[   




Attention – Important Notice


Euro 2012 qualifier – Ireland V Russia, Dublin, 8th
October 2010


The Euro 2012 qualifier between Ireland and Russia takes place in
Dublin on 8th October 2010. In order to cope with
anticipated very heavy demand for visas for this event. Applicants
are advised to note the following.


&#183; Persons who
intend to travel to Ireland, for whatever purpose, (football or
otherwise) during the months of September and October should apply
for their visas without delay.


Applicants whose primary reason for travelling to
Ireland is to attend the football game should note the following:


&#183; You must apply on
line at the following link https://www.visas.inis.gov.ie


&#183; The category you
should choose on the on-line application is
“”Event/Performance” not “Tourism”


The following documents need to be submitted:


1. The Summary sheet (2 pages) from the on-line
application. This must be signed and dated by the applicant


2. A valid passport with at least 6 months
validity after the trip, left to the expiry date


3. 2 standard passport colour photos


4. Financial situation


&#183; If in Employment,
Evidence of Employment, (Letter from Employer)


&#183; If a student,
evidence of studies (Letter from College/Universities)


&#183; If a student,
unemployed or retired or otherwise dependent, you must show
evidence (Bank Accounts etc) of how you propose to finance the trip
to Ireland


5. Accommodation:


&#183; Evidence of
Accommodation - A Hotel booking either through the Hotel Directly,
or a Travel Agency or a Hotel Booking
website.


&#183; If staying with
friends/ relatives , a copy of a utility bill (electricity, gas,
telephone) with the friends/ relatives name and address on it
and a copy of the details page of their passport
(Irish/ EEA) National or a copy of their GNIB
(Immigration) card.(Non-Irish/EEA nationals)


6. Previous Travel History


&#183; Evidence of
travel to similar sporting events (Euro 2008, World Cup qualifiers
2010) in the past, if available (passport, visas)


Please note that spot-checks will be carried out on documentation
and applications. Persons who submit false, misleading or
unverifiable information or documentation as part of their
application, will have their application refused, with no
right of appeal.


Agencies who are involved in the creation and submission of such
unacceptable applications will also face sanctions.


In complete applications will not be accepted. Applicants must
lodge their applications in the prescribed manner.


This office acknowledges that some delays may occur, due to the
large volume of visa applications expected. We thank our applicants
for their patience and understanding at this very busy time.


Closing Date:


Applicants applying for visas to attend the football match should
note that the closing date for visa applications is on
Thursday 30th September. No applications
will be accepted for this event after this date.





Michael Stenson


Head of Visa office


Embassy of Ireland


Moscow


Dated: 23rd August 2010






Visa Office – Embassy of Ireland Moscow


The visa office of the Embassy of Ireland in Moscow is staffed by
officers from the Irish Naturalisation and immigration Service,
www.inis.gov.ie , an executive body of the Department of Justice,
Equality and Law Reform. www.justice.ie. It was
established in 2002 and consists of 4 Irish Staff and 4 local
staff. It is situated in the ground floor of the Embassy of Ireland
in Moscow.


The office is open from 9.30 to 12.30 to receive applications on
Monday to Friday (excluding designated Public Holidays). The office
help line operates from 2.30 to 5.00 pm, Monday to Fridays. (number
on website). Queries can be e-mailed to irishvisamoscow@dfanet.ie.


At certain times, applicants may encounter difficulties getting
through on our helpline. If possible, we would encourage applicants
to consider using our e-mail facility as an alternative.


FAQ


What countries does your office take applications from?


This office accepts applications from citizens of the Russian
Federation, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan,
Kirghizstan, andTajikistan.


Citizens of the Ukraine who wish to apply for a Visa to Ireland
should apply at the Irish Honorary Consul in Kiev (address at
www.dfa.ie). Applications lodged
at this Consul are forwarded to the Visa Office in Moscow for
decision.


How do I apply for a Visa?


You must apply on-line at http://www.visas.inis.gov.ie .
When you have completed the on-line application form, you should
print down the Summary details sheet, and sign and date it.


You (or your agent or representative) should bring the signed
summary sheet to the Consulate together with 2 passport photos (do
not staple), and your passport, and the appropriate documents
required for the type of visa that you are applying for, together
with the Consular fee (if applicable).


What documents do I need to supply with my application?


The documents needed are set out on www.inis.gov.ie


What language is the application form available in?


The application form is available in English only and must be
filled in, in the English language


I will lodge an application now and send on the fee (back –up
documents, etc) later. Can you start to process it in the
meantime?


No, this office does not register or process incomplete
applications. The submission of incomplete applications is not
accepted in this office.


I wish to apply for a Multi Journey visa, but I never applied
for an Irish visa before.


Anyone is free to apply for a multiple journey visa on payment of
the appropriate fee. However, the following should be noted.


(1) Payment for a multiple journey visa does not
confer any entitlement to be granted a multiple Journey, or indeed
any visa. You may be granted a multiple –entry (MJ), a
Single-Entry (SJ) or refused a visa according the Decision of the
Visa Officer


(2) Multiple journey visas are in general only issued
to regular business travellers, spouses and/or Dependent children
of Irish/EEA nationals


(3) Applicants in employment, studies or Joining
Irish/EEA/3rd country family members to reside in
Ireland, are generally only granted a Single Journey Visa. They can
obtain a multiple journey Visa on registration with the appropriate
authorities (Garda National Immigration Bureau) in Ireland.


(4) Multiple Journey visas are, in general not issued
to other categories, save in exceptional or unusual circumstances.


Do I need to apply in person?


You do not necessarily need to apply in person.


How can I send the application to the Embassy?


You can send your application by post or courier. Applicants, who
do not lodge their applications in person, should only use persons
or operators they know and trust in order to lodge their
application and collect it when the application is dealt with. This
office cannot be held responsible for any loss that arises to an
applicant because of failure of a 3rd party to deliver or return an
application or documents to/from this office.


Should I make an appointment with the Embassy to apply for
visa?


This office does not operate an appointments system, except for
Irish couples looking for an exit visa for their adopted child for
the purposes of exiting Russia legally with that child.


Should I lodge the original travel passport with the
Embassy?


Yes, applications should be accompanied by the passport. In rare or
unusual circumstances an applicant may not be able to present the
application at the time of applying for the visa. In these
circumstances, a complete photocopy of the entire passport should
be provided together with a written explanation as to why the
passport could not be presented. It is up to the discretion of the
visa officer whether an application should be accepted in these
circumstances or not.


Please note if a passport is presented at any stage that is full
(used), has only a short time left on it (6 months or less) or
shows any signs of excessive wear and tear or tampering, a visa
will not issue in these circumstances to the holder of such a
passport.


Do I need to pay a fee?


Certain categories of applicants are exempt from Visa fees. Holders
of Official and Diplomatic passports. Spouse and Dependent children
of Irish/EEA/Swiss Nationals. Exit visas for adoptive children
going back to Ireland with their Irish parents


Children and their requisite carers travelling to Ireland under the
auspices of the Chernobyl Rest and Recuperation Scheme.


How much is the Consular Fee?


At the Moscow Office, the consular fee is 2200 Russian Roubles for
a Single Journey visa application and 3,700 Russian Roubles for a
Multi –Journey Visa application.


Citizens of the Kirghiz Republic do not have to pay a fee to apply
for an Irish visa


Other designated groups from time to time who activities may be
largely charitable, philanthropic or cultural in Nature. Groups who
feel that they may be entitled to a waiver in these circumstances
should contact Consular Division of DFA in Dublin, well before they
intend to travel.


The above list is not exhaustive, but it gives an indication of
some of the main categories that are exempt.


How can I pay the Consular Fee?


This fee must be paid in Russian Roubles cash.


Alternatively, a Bank Draft for €60 (Single Entry) or €100 (Multi
–Entry) drawn on an Irish Bank and made payable to “The Department
of Foreign Affairs” will be accepted. Personal cheques are
not accepted.


This office does not accept Euro currency or US Dollars.
Currently, we cannot process payments by credit card or laser card
facilities.


Is the Consular Fee refundable?


No, once an application is logged on our system, a consular fee
cannot be refunded


How do I find out about the progress of my application?


You can call in, in person from 9.30 -12.30 Monday to Friday
(excluding Public Holidays)


You can call our helpline on 007 495 937 59 00 2.30 to 5.00 pm
Monday to Friday (excluding Public Holidays)


You can fax in a request to the office to make an enquiry to
007 495 937 59 02


You can e-mail a request to irishvisaMoscow@dfanet.ie
for further information


How long will it take me to get my visa, if granted?


Assuming all requirements are met (as outlined on www.inis.gov.ie), and the visa
officer is satisfied, the following can be taken as
general indicative processing times only.


Visas for the purpose of business travel – 3 working days


Other Visas* approx 10 working days.


Please note that it may not be possible to adhere to these
timescales in certain instances, or at certain times e.g. peak
Summer travel time, Christmas/New Year Holiday, major event (e.g.
International sporting event) that may involve the movement of
large numbers of people in a very short timescale.


*Applications for some Student, Employment,
Residency type Family re-unification applications and
certain types of Family Visits (e.g. Where the inviter is
registered with GNIB) or other complex applications
that arise from time to time may take longer than the above
indicative timescales to process.


This office cannot be held liable for any loss (perceived or
actual) in the event of a visa issuance not taking place at all, or
within the time scales outlined above.


This office encourages applicants to lodge their visa
applications as soon as they become aware of a need to, or form an
intention of, travelling to Ireland. This will help to
reduce delays, confusion and difficulties for all concerned.


Who can collect a passport?


A passport can be collected by


(1) The passport holder in person presenting themselves
at the office. The person will have to sign for the passport


(2) A person who presents a receipt for a passport.
This person will be asked to produce photographic ID
themselves and will have to sign for the passport


(3) A person who is neither the passport holder nor in
possession of the receipt. This person will have to produce a
signed notarised consent from the passport holder authorising them
to collect the passport on their behalf. This person will have to
produce photographic ID also and sign for the passport


My application was refused and I wish to appeal. How do I go
about doing this?


A person whose visa application was refused may appeal within 2
months of the date that the decision was taken. Applicants appeal
should be made in writing. In certain circumstances, the inviter
may be allowed appeal the decision on applicant’s behalf.


When can I lodge a new application if my previous application
was refused?


You can lodge an application at any time. However, if it fails to
address the reasons why your previous application failed, then it
is highly unlikely to be a successful application


I wish to send a large group of people to Ireland to a
conference/sports event etc. What do I need to do?


A large group is defined as fifty applications or more. You should
contact the visa office as soon as you start to organise the trip
to Ireland. This will enable the visa office to plan to deal with
the large volume of group applicants in as efficient a manner as
possible, so as to minimise difficulties to the organiser,
applicants and the visa office. The documents needed for
Conference/other large groups are set out on www.inis.gov.ie


Is Ireland part of the Schengen group of countries?


No, Ireland is not currently a member of the Schengen group of
countries. An Irish visa cannot be used for travel to a Schengen
country, nor can a Schengen visa be used for travel to Ireland


Can I travel to Ireland on a UK Visa, or to the UK on an Irish
Visa?


No, an Irish visa is not valid for travel to any part of the UK
including Northern Ireland. Likewise a UK Visa is only valid for
entering the UK and Northern Ireland, not Ireland.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:36:29 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Travel Advice]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32399</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
__________________________________________________________________________


ForestFires / Pollution


The Russian government has made significant
   inroads in dealing with the forest and peat fires affecting
   areas of Central and Western Russia. The worst hit areas have
   been Nizhny Novgorod, Mordovia,
   Tatarstan, Moscow, Voronezh, Ryazan, Vladimir and Ivanovo. The
   fires caused a high level of pollution in Moscow. Though the air
   quality has improved in recent days, it could worsen at short
   notice. Those who are elderly, have pre-existing health
   condition or are pregnant are advised to consult their doctor
   before travelling to the region.


Any citizens in need of urgent assistance should contact the
Embassy in Moscow on +7 495 937 5911.


TRAVEL INSURANCE


The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that
comprehensive travel insurance, including personal medical
insurance, is obtained before travelling to Russia.Intending
travellers should be aware that the Irish Government is not
responsible for expenses incurred by Irish citizensas a
result of apersonal emergency while travelling.


ENTRY REQUIREMENTS


For entry/exit requirements and immigration information for Russia,
please contact theEmbassy of the Russian
Federationto Ireland.Contact details are as
follows:



Address: 186 Orwell Road, Rathgar, Dublin 14


Telephone: 01 492 2048


E-Mail: russiane@indigo.ie


Webpage: www.ireland.mid.ru



Irish applicants for visas to enter Russia should now apply online.
Details of the documentation required are available on the Russian
Embassy website at www.ireland.mid.ru.


The Russian Embassy in Dublin has advised that they are currently
receiving a high volume of applications. We therefore recommend
that Irish citizens applying for a visa should do so as early as
possible and ensure that their documents are completed according to
the guidelines, as per the website.


It is a legal requirement in Russia to carry ID at all times:
either your passport or a copy of it. On arrival in Russia you will
be issued with an immigration card, which must be presented on
exiting Russia. Be sure to retain this form. Foreign citizens must
register their presence in Russia if staying for more than three
working days. If staying in a hotel, the hotel should organise
this. If staying privately, foreign citizens must be registered at
the nearest Militsia station.


SECURITY


Because of the volatile security situation in the North
Caucasus, we strongly advise against all travel to Chechnya,
Ingushetia, Dagestan and to the eastern and southern parts of
Stavropol Krai bordering Chechnya and Dagestan. We strongly advise
against all but essential travel to North Ossetia,
Karachai-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria (including the Elbrus
area).


There is a high threat from terrorism in Russia, including
suicide bombings in public places. Attacks have occurred
most frequently in Moscow and in the North Caucasus. As a result,
the photographing of any military installation, establishment or
site of strategic importance is prohibited; this includes airports
and metro stations. People who do not observe this rule are likely
to have their cameras confiscated, be detained for questioning and
possibly arrested.


MOSCOW METRO BOMBINGS


On 29 March 2010, the Moscow Metro system suffered a
terrorist attack. Such attacks are indiscriminate,and may
occur inplaces frequented by expatriates and foreign
travellers. We strongly advise Irish citizens in
the Russian Federation to exercise caution and remain vigilant in
public places.


The Russian Ministry of Emergencies hasopened an information
centre for public enquiries and advice. You can reach the centre by
telephoning:+7 495 626 3707 / +7 495 624 3440 / +7 495 622
1430.


For emergency assistance and advice, Irish Citizens should
contact the Embassy of Ireland in Moscow on +7 495 937
5911.


CRIME


You are advised to be vigilant at all times and also watch out for
pickpockets and street crime, especially in large cities and in
busy areas, e.g. railway concourses, particularly in St Petersburg,
with tourists being targeted specifically. Incidents of bogus
police officers harassing and robbing tourists are also occurring.
If you are stopped always insist on seeing ID. Avoid openly
carrying expensive items, or anything that might easily identify
you as a tourist.


Racially motivated attacks by racist groups do occur in Russia. If
you are of Asian, Afro-Caribbean or Southern European descent, we
advise you to take extra care.


HEALTH


Tap water is not drinkable throughout Russia. Caution should be
exercised and local advice sought. Bottled mineral water is widely
available.


Russia suffered several thousand cases of H1N1 Influenza (Human
Swine 'Flu) in late 2009, with 16 deaths officially reported.
Caution is advised with regards to infectious diseases,
particularly in crowded areas such as the Metro system in Moscow.
Pharmacies are marked by a green cross, as in Ireland, and in
central Moscow and St Petersburg, most operate on a 24-hour basis.


Russia experiences a particularly harsh winter between November and
March. Caution is advised for visitors in this time. Driving
conditions outside city centres can become very difficult. When
travelling on foot, pavements can become extremely icy, so good
walking shoes are essential.


CASH/BANKING


The Ruble is the unit of currency in Russia. If you wish to
purchase roubles in Russia, we advise that you take Euro or US
dollars to change. All notes should be in good condition. You
should only change money at banks, hotels and recognised exchange
kiosks. You will need to show your passport and visa to change
money. It is an offence to change money from street traders. It is
illegal to pay directly with dollars or euro. Most hotels,
restaurants and larger shops accept credit cards, but smaller shops
do not. ATMs exist in most major cities. Travellers cheques are not
widely accepted.


ASSISTANCE FOR IRISH CITIZENS IN RUSSIA


We strongly advise all Irish visitors and residents,
particularly those visiting remote parts of Russia, to register
their details with the Consular Section of the Irish Embassy in
Moscow.


For emergency assistance, advice and support in the Russian
Federation, Irish Citizens should contact the Embassy of Ireland in
Moscow on +7 495 937 5911.


The Embassy's website is available at www.embassyofireland.ru


___________________________________________________________________________

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:23:45 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Travel Advice]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32399</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
__________________________________________________________________________


ForestFires / Pollution


The Russian government has made significant
   inroads in dealing with the forest and peat fires affecting
   areas of Central and Western Russia. The worst hit areas have
   been Nizhny Novgorod, Mordovia,
   Tatarstan, Moscow, Voronezh, Ryazan, Vladimir and Ivanovo. The
   fires caused a high level of pollution in Moscow. Though the air
   quality has improved in recent days, it could worsen at short
   notice. Those who are elderly, have pre-existing health
   condition or are pregnant are advised to consult their doctor
   before travelling to the region.


Any citizens in need of urgent assistance should contact the
Embassy in Moscow on +7 495 937 5911.


TRAVEL INSURANCE


The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that
comprehensive travel insurance, including personal medical
insurance, is obtained before travelling to Russia.Intending
travellers should be aware that the Irish Government is not
responsible for expenses incurred by Irish citizensas a
result of apersonal emergency while travelling.


ENTRY REQUIREMENTS


For entry/exit requirements and immigration information for Russia,
please contact theEmbassy of the Russian
Federationto Ireland.Contact details are as
follows:



Address: 186 Orwell Road, Rathgar, Dublin 14


Telephone: 01 492 2048


E-Mail: russiane@indigo.ie


Webpage: www.ireland.mid.ru



Irish applicants for visas to enter Russia should now apply online.
Details of the documentation required are available on the Russian
Embassy website at www.ireland.mid.ru.


The Russian Embassy in Dublin has advised that they are currently
receiving a high volume of applications. We therefore recommend
that Irish citizens applying for a visa should do so as early as
possible and ensure that their documents are completed according to
the guidelines, as per the website.


It is a legal requirement in Russia to carry ID at all times:
either your passport or a copy of it. On arrival in Russia you will
be issued with an immigration card, which must be presented on
exiting Russia. Be sure to retain this form. Foreign citizens must
register their presence in Russia if staying for more than three
working days. If staying in a hotel, the hotel should organise
this. If staying privately, foreign citizens must be registered at
the nearest Militsia station.


SECURITY


Because of the volatile security situation in the North
Caucasus, we strongly advise against all travel to Chechnya,
Ingushetia, Dagestan and to the eastern and southern parts of
Stavropol Krai bordering Chechnya and Dagestan. We strongly advise
against all but essential travel to North Ossetia,
Karachai-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria (including the Elbrus
area).


There is a high threat from terrorism in Russia, including
suicide bombings in public places. Attacks have occurred
most frequently in Moscow and in the North Caucasus. As a result,
the photographing of any military installation, establishment or
site of strategic importance is prohibited; this includes airports
and metro stations. People who do not observe this rule are likely
to have their cameras confiscated, be detained for questioning and
possibly arrested.


MOSCOW METRO BOMBINGS


On 29 March 2010, the Moscow Metro system suffered a
terrorist attack. Such attacks are indiscriminate,and may
occur inplaces frequented by expatriates and foreign
travellers. We strongly advise Irish citizens in
the Russian Federation to exercise caution and remain vigilant in
public places.


The Russian Ministry of Emergencies hasopened an information
centre for public enquiries and advice. You can reach the centre by
telephoning:+7 495 626 3707 / +7 495 624 3440 / +7 495 622
1430.


For emergency assistance and advice, Irish Citizens should
contact the Embassy of Ireland in Moscow on +7 495 937
5911.


CRIME


You are advised to be vigilant at all times and also watch out for
pickpockets and street crime, especially in large cities and in
busy areas, e.g. railway concourses, particularly in St Petersburg,
with tourists being targeted specifically. Incidents of bogus
police officers harassing and robbing tourists are also occurring.
If you are stopped always insist on seeing ID. Avoid openly
carrying expensive items, or anything that might easily identify
you as a tourist.


Racially motivated attacks by racist groups do occur in Russia. If
you are of Asian, Afro-Caribbean or Southern European descent, we
advise you to take extra care.


HEALTH


Tap water is not drinkable throughout Russia. Caution should be
exercised and local advice sought. Bottled mineral water is widely
available.


Russia suffered several thousand cases of H1N1 Influenza (Human
Swine 'Flu) in late 2009, with 16 deaths officially reported.
Caution is advised with regards to infectious diseases,
particularly in crowded areas such as the Metro system in Moscow.
Pharmacies are marked by a green cross, as in Ireland, and in
central Moscow and St Petersburg, most operate on a 24-hour basis.


Russia experiences a particularly harsh winter between November and
March. Caution is advised for visitors in this time. Driving
conditions outside city centres can become very difficult. When
travelling on foot, pavements can become extremely icy, so good
walking shoes are essential.


CASH/BANKING


The Ruble is the unit of currency in Russia. If you wish to
purchase roubles in Russia, we advise that you take Euro or US
dollars to change. All notes should be in good condition. You
should only change money at banks, hotels and recognised exchange
kiosks. You will need to show your passport and visa to change
money. It is an offence to change money from street traders. It is
illegal to pay directly with dollars or euro. Most hotels,
restaurants and larger shops accept credit cards, but smaller shops
do not. ATMs exist in most major cities. Travellers cheques are not
widely accepted.


ASSISTANCE FOR IRISH CITIZENS IN RUSSIA


We strongly advise all Irish visitors and residents,
particularly those visiting remote parts of Russia, to register
their details with the Consular Section of the Irish Embassy in
Moscow.


For emergency assistance, advice and support in the Russian
Federation, Irish Citizens should contact the Embassy of Ireland in
Moscow on +7 495 937 5911.


The Embassy's website is available at www.embassyofireland.ru


___________________________________________________________________________

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:23:45 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Travel Advice]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32399</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Ireland’s bilateral relations with Russia and the countries of the
former Soviet Unionare co-ordinated within the Department’s
Political Division and have significantly increased in recent
years. These relations are being developed in parallel with
an increased EU focus, since the 2004 enlargement, on its
neighbours to the East. The mechanism by which the EU relates
to most of the region is the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP),
which also covers a number of southern neighbours of the EU.
The Eastern Partnership of the ENP, which was launched in Prague in
May 2009, aims to further enhance relations with Armenia,
Azerbaijan,Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine and Belarus. The
Division monitors political developments in these countries and
coordinates Ireland’s contribution to discussions at EU level, in
particular through the Common Foreign and Security Policy.


In this context, Political Division works very closely with the
Embassies in Moscow, Prague (Ukraine), Sofia (Georgia and Armenia),
Ankara (Azerbaijan), Bucharest (Moldova) and Vilnius (Belarus) in
addition to working with our Embassies in a number ofother
new EU Member States. Political, trade and economic links are
being developed with the non-EU countries of Eastern Europe
(Belarus, Moldova, Ukraine) and the South Caucasus countries
(Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia).


Developments in the countries of the Central Asia region
(Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan)
are also of interest to the EU, to Ireland as a Member State and to
the OSCE, and
are monitored by Political Division. An EU Central Asia
Strategy was adopted at the June 2007 European Council and forms
the framework for the EU’s cooperation with the region.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 06 Aug 2010 15:25:31 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Types of Visa]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32354</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[News Update]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32332</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Due to the cloud of volcanic ash
over Europe there are currentlylimited flights from Russia
toEuropean
destinations.
      The Irish Embassy offers
      citizens the following advice:



Travellers should check with
their airlines or travel agent before they
      travel. Those who
      havebeen delayed because of the ongoing crisis should
      remain in contact with their tour operator or
      airline.


Individuals with visas which are
due to expire shortly should visit their nearest Federal Migration
Service office to arrange to have their visa
      extended. Extensions are
      also being facilitaed through theRussian Foreign Migration
      Officers at the airports - your airline should be able
      to assist with this.


People
who find themselves in a medical or family emergency should
contact irishembassymoscow@dfa.ie or +7 (495) 937 5911 for
      assistance.


The
Department of Foreign Affairs has opened its crisis centre to
provide assistance, contact: +353 1 408 2999


More
information can be found on
the Department of ForeignAffairs website
athttp://www.dfa.ie/home/index.aspx?id=83469



Business Diary


Enterprise Irelandis organising a business visit
toAzerbaijan in June. Companies interested in exploring these
optionscan find contact details here.


The Enterprise Ireland office in Moscow recently organised events
for Irish companies WordPerfect and Sysnet at the Embassy.
Companies interested in similar events should contact Enterprise
Ireland at the site above.


The Irish Business Club is going strong and organising a range of
events from the St Patrick's Day Parade to the regular pub quizzes,
with proceeds to charity,at Katie O'Shea's pub on Grokholski
Pereulok. We recommend the Club to Irish businesspeople in Moscow -
details can befound here.


Visa News


Russian visa applications for Irish citizens have gone on-line
since September 2008. The Russian Embassy to Ireland recommends
that all applicants should fill in their visa application forms
through the online service, which is available at www.e-consulate.ru. Further information is available
at www.ireland.mid.ru. All
other procedures are as before.


]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jun 2010 06:06:04 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Ireland in Russia]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32325</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Dear Friends,


I was delighted to be appointed Irish Ambassador to the Russian
Federation, and since my arrival I have been impressed by the
extent at which links between Ireland and Russia are flourishing,
particularly in the fields of business and culture. The actions of
previous Irish Ambassadors and their staff, and the invaluable
input from the Irish community in Russia should be lauded in this
respect.


With my colleagues in the Embassy, we hope this site will prove
useful to visitors from both countries. The site contains a
wide variety of information about links between Ireland and Russia,
including on visas, cultural links, travel advice, tourism and our
expanding trade relations.


The site contains useful links to other websites of organisations
which specialise in aspects of relations between Ireland and
Russia, including in the areas of trade and tourism. I would
refer visitors in particular to the website of Enterprise Ireland
which is the Irish Government Agency specialising in trade
promotion and whose Moscow office is situated within the Irish
Embassy.


The Embassy is particularly keen to assist Russian travellers to
Ireland. We are hopeful that the recent re-commencement of a
direct air connection between Russia and Ireland will increase the
flow of visitors in both directions. I would refer our Russian
visitors to the website of Tourism Ireland which is the Irish
agency specialising in tourism promotion.


The Embassy is determined to provide an efficient visa processing
service to assist travel to Ireland. The Visa Office aims,
subject to the fulfilment of visa conditions, to process visa
applications within 5 working days. Business visas are
processed within a maximum of 3 working days. Details of the
visa process, are available on this site.


We welcome feedback from visitors to help us to shape what will be
a regularly-updated and expanding website. I hope you will follow
both the business and cultural diaries which are the key feature of
the site. These will report on events that have taken place, and
let you know about anything the Embassy and the Irish community
have planned in the upcoming months.


Is mise le meas, С уважением,


Philip McDonagh
Ambassador of Ireland, Moscow

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 01 Jun 2010 06:04:08 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Embassy Closure Dates]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32330</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
In 2010, the Embassy will be closed on the following
dates:


1 January (New Year’s Day)


7 January (Orthodox Christmas Day)
8 January
23 February (Defenders of the Fatherland)
8 March (International Women’s Day)
2 April (Good Friday)
5 April(Easter Monday)
1 May (May Day)
10 May (Victory Day)
14 June (Russian Independence Day)
4November (Day of National Consensus)
27December (Christmas Day Ireland)


If you are in need of emergency assistance, please ring the Embassy
at +7 95 937 5911 and leave a message on the answering
machine. The answering machine is monitored regularly, and
the Duty Officer will contact you as soon as possible.
Alternatively, you may contact the Duty Officer at the Department
of Foreign Affairs in Dublin at +00353 (0)1 4082000.


www.rte.ie link to rte website






link to doc (PDF 1567kb)


link to
travl a





jljkjkl


mlm,


;'.;'.















]]></description>
					<pubDate>Mon, 19 Apr 2010 13:39:18 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Authentication of Documents]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32360</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[Who needs a Visa?]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32357</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[About the Embassy]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32326</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
The Embassy of Ireland inMoscowis normallyopen
Monday to Friday from 09:30 - 12:30 and from 14:30 - 17:30.

The Visa Office isopen Monday to Friday from 9:30 -
12:30.


Diplomatic StaffAmbassador - H.E. Mr. Philip
McDonagh
Deputy Head of Mission- Mr. Aidan Kirwan
Consul-Mr. Peter O'Connor

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:07:23 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Countries also Represented by Embassy Moscow]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32333</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Kazakhstan


Kyrgyzstan


Tajikistan


Turkmenistan


Uzbekistan

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:05:59 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[liz test]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=82931</link>
					<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:30:15 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Living & Working in Ireland]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=78782</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[Belarus Children Declaration]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=81860</link>
					<description><![CDATA[Please find below the Chernobyl Children Declaration for host
organisations and families in Ireland.
]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2009 08:36:10 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[The Economy]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=78760</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[Irish Citizens Travelling to USA]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=32342</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=78748</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>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Ireland in Brief]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=78789</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>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Studying in Ireland]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=82403</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Ireland’s traditional reputation for educational excellence is
recognised the world over. Dating back to the Middle Ages, Ireland
– known as the Island of Saints and Scholars -provided education to
much of the western world: more recently, Irish writers such as
James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, WB Yeats, George Bernard Shaw and
Oscar Wilde, are studied around the world, while ongoing investment
in research and development has placed modern Ireland at the
cutting edge of science and technology.


Successive modern governments in Ireland have regarded education as
a key priority and today Ireland has one of the highest education
participation rates in the world, with almost half of young people
entering third-level education. Irish Universities, Colleges and
Institutes of Technology are acclaimed internationally for their
high academic standards, while the many established English
language schools have a well-founded reputation for quality.


Ireland is also a uniquely attractive place to live, with friendly
people and a wide range of cultural and sporting activities. In
2007, students from 142 countries pursued courses in Higher
Education in Ireland, with another 140,000 studying English here.
This international experience, together with its cultural links to
the English-speaking world, its intensive investment in research
and development, and its strong connections to industry, has been
central to Ireland’s development as a knowledge society in the new
global economy.




Education Ireland



The Irish Education System



Third Level Education



Irish Universities



Institutes of Technology in Ireland



Private Higher Education Colleges



Fourth Level Education



English Language Sector



Useful Links






Education Ireland


Education Ireland was formally established to provide information
about Ireland as a centre for international education. Its website
(www.educationireland.ie) acts
as a central contact point for information about programmes
available in Irish Universities, Institutes of Technology and
private Colleges, and provides comprehensive links to other Irish
education websites.


Back


The Irish Education System


Education in Ireland is compulsory from age 6 to 16, or until
students have completed three years of secondary education.
However, most children start in primary education at the age of 4.
There are over 3,200 primary schools in Ireland, most of which
receive capital funding from the State, supplemented by local
contributions. The second-level sector comprises over 750
secondary, vocational, community and comprehensive schools.
Almost 60% of students attend secondary schools; 26% attend
vocational schools; and 14% attend community and comprehensive
schools. Second-level education consists of a three-year Junior
Cycle followed by a two or three-year Senior Cycle. In the Senior
Cycle, there is an optional Transition Year Programme. During the
final two years of Senior Cycle, students take either the
established Leaving Certificate; the Leaving Certificate Vocational
Programme or the Leaving Certificate Applied.


Back


Third Level Education


The higher education system in Ireland is broad in scope and
encompasses the university sector, the technological sector, the
colleges of education and private independent colleges. The
institutions within the first three groupings are autonomous and
self-governing, but are substantially state funded.


Back


Irish Universities


The seven Universities in the Republic of Ireland offer
state-of-the-art training through a broad range of Bachelors,
Masters and PhD programmes. These Universities are attractive
destinations for Irish, European and international students,
reflecting the unique combination of a quality education and an
exciting cultural experience. Irish Universities are fully
integrated into the life of their cities and regions, with vibrant
student communities and social life.


Significant government investment in research and development makes
the Irish Universities an especially attractive destination for
young researchers and scholars. The Universities play a central
role in ensuring that Ireland continues to advance and becomes a
fully-fledged knowledge society. The receipt of significant funding
through the Government's Strategic Innovation Fund underpins their
performance in research and the output of highly-skilled graduates
with doctoral qualifications and post-doctoral experience. The
Universities have rigorous quality assurance procedures which
adhere to the highest international standards.



Back


Institutes of Technology in Ireland


The 14 Institutes of Technology (IoTs) in the Republic of Ireland
offer programmes at levels 6 to 10 of the National Framework of
Qualifications.These include undergraduate programmes
leading to higher certificate awards, Ordinary Bachelors degrees,
Honours Bachelors degrees and post-graduate awards, both taught and
by research, leading to Masters and Doctoral degrees, in a wide
variety of subjects. Most have schools of Science, Engineering
&amp;amp; Technology, and Business. In addition, many of the Institutes
have developed special programmes in areas such as Humanities &amp;amp;
Languages; Paramedical Studies and Healthcare; Art &amp;amp; Design;
and Tourism. The quality assurance procedures of each Institute are
approved by the Higher Education and Training Award Council (HETAC).
The qualifications awarded byHETAC are internationally
recognised by academic; professional; trade; and craft bodies.



Back


Private Higher Education Colleges


The various private independent colleges are mainly involved in
providing business and professional educational training. Courses
on offer include: Accountancy and Business Studies; Law;
Humanities; Hotel and Catering; Tourism Studies; and Art. Many of
the programmes offered by these colleges are validated by the
Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC) and some have
links with Universities and/or professional associations through
which the offered courses are accredited.



Back


Fourth Level Education


Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have a critical role to play
in ‘Fourth Level' or post-graduate education in Ireland.
Significant funding is provided for research being carried out in
the HEIs, much of it coming through the Higher Education
Authority’s Programme for Research in Third Level
Institutions (PRTLI), and major research initiatives funded by
Science Foundation
Ireland. The Government’s 2006 Strategy for Science, Technology
and Innovation sets out a vision and roadmap for the coherent
development of research, technological development and innovation.
Government research support continues to increase under the
National Development Plan, 2007-2013.



Back


English Language Sector


Ireland has a well-founded reputation for the excellent quality of
its English language services. The quality assurance body for the
sector in Ireland is the Advisory Council for English Language
Schools (ACELS) which administers an inspection scheme, leading to
recognition by the Department of Education and Science . A full list of
the over 110 quality-assured and recognised schools and
organisations (ELTOS) is available on the ACELS website.
These offer a wide variety of courses, and generally provide a full
package of tuition, accommodation and extra-curricular activities.
English language training can also be combined with sporting
activities such as angling, golf or tennis. The English language
sector is supported in its promotional activities by F&#225;ilte Ireland.



Back


Useful Links


The Education Ireland website acts as a central point of
contact for information on Irish education and on programmes
available in Irish Universities and colleges. It provides
up-to-date comprehensive information on courses;scholarships;
coming to Ireland; and learning English in Ireland (www.educationireland.ie).


The National
Qualifications of Ireland (NQAI) is the Irish centre for the
recognition of international qualifications. If you have completed
a qualification outside Ireland, you may wish to have it assessed
in order to gain employment or undertake further studies in Ireland
(www.qualificationsrecognition.ie).


Qualifax is
Ireland's National Learners' Database. It is the &quot;one stop shop&quot;
for learners. Qualifax provides the most comprehensive information
on further and higher education and training courses in Ireland
(www.qualifax.ie).


The National Framework
of Qualifications (NFQ) provides a way to compare
qualifications, and to ensure that they are quality-assured and
recognised at home and abroad. Students are encouraged to use the
NFQ to identify the qualification they will achieve before making
decisions. Qualifications recognised through the NFQ are
quality-assured: this means that your course, and the institution
at which you study, are reviewed on an ongoing basis www.nfq.ie).


The Higher Education
and Training Awards Council (HETAC) develops, promotes and
maintains higher education and training awards to the highest
international standards and quality (www.hetac.ie).


The Irish
Council for International Students (ICOS) promotes the general
welfare of international students (www.icosirl.ie).


The Irish Universities
Assocation (IUA) is the representative body for the seven Irish
Universities (www.iua.ie).


The Institutes of
Technology of Ireland (IOTI) is the representative body for the
thirteen Irish institutes of technology (www.ioti.ie).


The Higher Education Colleges Association (HECA) is a
self-regulating association of independent third level colleges
formed in 1991 to represent the interests of its member colleges
and their students (www.heca.ie).


The Advisory Council
for English Language Schools (ACELS) is the quality assurance
body for English language teaching in Ireland. ACELS administers an
inspection/recognition scheme leading to recognition by the
Department of Education and Science (www.acels.ie).


F&#225;ilte Ireland promotes the English language
   schools (www.failteireland.ie).


The Student
Finance website is a convenient and user-friendly source of
information on financial support for further and higher education
in Ireland (www.studentfinance.ie).



Back

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:37:23 UTC</pubDate>
		
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