Irish football fans have been given advice for this summer’s European Championships – with the final tip being a shout out to the boys in green.
Drinking responsibly is among the “first 11” top tips for Irish citizens highlighted by Charlie Flanagan, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, ahead of the footballing extravaganza in France.
With two months to go until the Republic of Ireland’s opening match in Paris, fans are urged to check their passport’s validity, to follow the rules with local laws and customs, and to keep in contact with family and friends – win, lose or draw.
Rounding off the 11 tips, Mr Flanagan’s department said: “Come on you boys in green!”
Fans of the Irish team travelling to the tournament are urged to “be responsible”, with the advice stating: “Avoid unnecessary risks – steer clear of trouble, drink responsibly and behave respectfully when engaging with local authorities, including local law enforcement agencies.”
Mr Flanagan said: “With less than 40 working days remaining before Ireland’s first game, I urge travelling fans to check their passport’s validity.”
The Minister, who has been working closely with the Irish Embassy in Paris, went on: “It is vital that Irish citizens use the intervening time between now and travelling in June to prepare properly so that they can have an enjoyable and memorable time supporting the boys in green in what we hope will be a very successful tournament for them.”
Mr Flanagan also recommended that fans apply for the credit card sized Irish Passport Card which can be used for travel to France. The advice adds: “As France is in a State of Emergency, a valid form of photo ID should be carried at all times while in France.”
Fans are advised to bring a European Health Insurance Card and urged to check out the latest travel advice for France and information on the different regions, laws and customs.
The department is advising people not to go to France without comprehensive travel insurance, and suggests that fans provide their details through the Citizen Registration facility so that they can be contacted in case of an emergency.
The Republic of Ireland’s Euro 2016 campaign kicks off against Sweden at the Stade de France on June 13 before they go on to play both Belgium and Italy in the group stages of the competition.