Ireland & Sligo

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 visitor.  A variety of sporting activities such as fishing, riding and golf, as well as traditional dancing and music.

Population
5.5 million, over 1.5 million live in Dublin.

Climate
Ireland enjoys a temperate climate with mild winters and relatively cool summers. Mean daily temperature in June and July is 18 C. Dublin enjoys reasonable sunshine and rain belts reaching the east coast are frequently light and generally clear quickly.

Documentation
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 some countries. Delegates should check with their local Irish representation. 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 Conference Organising 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 see the visa information page for further details.

Shopping
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 or its agents, will not be responsible for any medical expenses, loss or accidents incurred during the congress. 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 EHIC card.

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 form 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
Include jeans and casual wear. Jacket and tie for fine dining. Rainwear and comfortable shoes are advised.