General Info
Ireland
Ireland is an island on the North Western edge of Europe. It is 486 kilometres long and 275 kilometres wide. Ireland has 3,172 kilometres of coastline – the longest coastline per head of population in Europe. The Republic of Ireland occupies three-quarters of the island and its capital city is Dublin. Ireland, with its beautiful scenery, offers a range of attractions to the tourist including ancient archaeological sites and monuments, a variety of sporting activities such as fishing, riding and golf, as well as traditional dancing and music.
Cork
Since the city of Cork was founded by St. Finbarr over 1000 years ago, it has grown from a trading merchant city to a cosmopolitan vibrant 21st century city of today. Located on the South West coast of Ireland, Cork is the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland with a population in excess of 123,000. A major European centre for the life science industry with eight of the top ten pharmaceutical companies in the world located in the greater Cork area, the city is also a university city with a student population in excess of 25,000.
Cork is steeped in history and has a thriving commercial, social and cultural sector. Indeed, Cork city's commitment and contribution to the arts and cultural life is well established, with the city home to several galleries and museums. In recognition of this commitment, Cork city was chosen as the European Capital of Culture in 2005.
Access to Cork
Cork is easily accessed through Cork International Airport with direct flights to the UK and mainland Europe and connecting flights to other global destinations.
Climate
Ireland enjoys a temperate climate with mild winters and relatively cool summers. Mean daily temperature in March is 8 C. Cork enjoys reasonable sunshine and rain belts reaching the South West coast are frequently light and generally clear quickly. However, it is always wise when travelling to Ireland to pack a rain mac or umbrella!.
Documentation/Passports
Everyone entering Ireland must have a valid passport, or in the case of European Union Member States, a national identity card. Visas are required for visitors from some countries. Delegates should check with their local Irish consulate or embassy. A valid driving license is required to drive in Ireland.
Please note that it can take up to 8 weeks to process a visa application, and early application is recommended. The Congress Organizing Committee, or its agents, cannot accept any responsibility for visa applications. Where a delegate is unable to attend because of failure to obtain a visa on time, the normal cancellation policy for registration fee will apply. Please contact terri@conferencepartners.ie if you require a letter of invitation for your visa application. You may also request such a letter by fax.
Shopping
Cork offers much variety for shopping. There is a huge range of products to bring home – from traditional Irish hand-made crafts to international designer labels. Things to buy: woollen knits, tweeds, crystal, Claddagh rings, pottery, silver and music. Shopping hours are from 9.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Saturday, with shops open until 8.00pm on Thursdays, and many shops open from 2.00pm – 6.00pm on Sunday.
Insurance
The Conference Organising Committee, its agents, and the Society will not be responsible for any medical expenses, loss or accidents incurred during the conference. Delegates are strongly advised to arrange their own personal insurance to cover medical and other expenses including accident or loss. Where a delegate has to cancel for medical reasons, the normal cancellation policy will apply. It is recommended that citizens from EU countries bring with them a current E111 form.
Tax Refunds
Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged at 21% on most goods. Cash back is the simplest and most widely used VAT refund service that issues cash refunds on departure for a handling fee. Ask for cash back forms when you make your purchase.
Tipping
A small tip is appreciated for good service. Tipping is not usual in pubs and bars. Tip cabs 10% and porters 60c per bag.
Currency
The currency in Ireland is the Euro.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards are widely accepted.
Smoking Policy
Under Irish law, smoking is not permitted in pubs, restaurants, hotel lobbies and all enclosed public buildings.
Electricity
220 volts
Time
From March to October, Ireland operates on Greenwich Mean Time + 1 hour.
What to Pack
For Conference sessions, business casual dress is recommended, and business suit/national dress for Closing Conference Banquet. Include casual wear for free time, and jacket and tie for restaurant fine dining. Rainwear and comfortable shoes are advised.
Tours
A number of tours both private & public will be on offer to you for your visit to Dublin. Further details can be found on the conference website. Tours can be booked as part of the registration process.
Useful Websites
Tourist: www.discoverireland.com
Visa & Embassy Info: www.gov.ie
Weather: www.met.ie
Entertainment listings: www.entertainment.ie
