
Capital
Dublin (495.781 in 2003)Surface
70.273 km²Population
4.422.100 in 2006Density
54 /km²Currency
EuroTime zone
UTC 0Language
English and IrishReligion
Catholic and ProtestantEntry requirements
Neither passport nor visa is required for European citizens of the Member States. A valid identity card is sufficient. Most of the European driving licenses are accepted.Travelling with pets
Small sized pets like cats, dogs and ferrets must travel with animal passport (in force since 2004) and have an identification microchip or tattoo. Also, be vaccinated against rabies (vaccination to be made at least 6 months prior to departure).Health and safety
Both private and public health structures are good, and medicaments are easily available. No vaccination is required. It is advisable to bring the magnetic card for health assistance. General safety is good, there are no danger zones.Climate
Ireland is characterised by a mild temperate climate. Winters a re never too cold, and snowfalls are pretty rare. Summers are sunny and hot, but not sultry, with temperatures hardly exceeding 30°C.Form of government
Ireland is a parliamentary Republic, independent from the United Kingdom since 1936.Economy
Irish economy is modern and varied, with a good organization of the work market. The institutions have made a wise use of the European funds, and the considerable incentives granted to multinational groups have attracted many investors, who settled in Ireland opening branch offices. The industrial sector employs about 30% of the work force, whereas the tertiary has emerged in the last years as the crucial sector. Pride of the economic system are research and biotechnologies.Electricity
Voltage: 220-240V – Frequency: 50 Hz. It is advisable to bring an adapter.Post offices, banks and communications
Post offices in Ireland are open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 17.30 pm. Banks are open from 9.30 am to 16.30 Monday to Friday, with extended opening hours until 17 pm on Thursdays.Mobile phone covering is excellent.
Country code: 00353
Useful numbers:
Emergency number: 112