UNCLAS DUBLIN 000026

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: SENV OTRA KSCA TPHY EPA EI
SUBJECT: COUNTRY CLEARANCE GRANTED TO EPA JAMES ALWOOD

REF: STATE 05294


1. Post welcomes and grants country clearance to EPA
Official, James Alwood, Director, Office of Prevention,
Pesticides and Toxic Substances (OPPT) to travel to Dublin,
Ireland, from January 23 to 24, 2006. Purpose of the visit
is to make a presentation and participate in a panel
discussion at its European meeting.


2. Per reftel, post understands that no assistance is
required. Embassy telephone number while in country is (01)
668-8777 during business hours; (01) 668-9612 after hours.

GENERAL TRAVEL INFORMATION


3. There are no visa requirements for visitors traveling to
Ireland on diplomatic or official passports.


4. Please note that as of March 29, 2004, Ireland has
instituted a smoking ban in the work place, including all
pubs, restaurants, and hotel common areas. Violations of
this law may result in a fine of up to Euro 3,000. Check
with hotel staff upon arrival to determine if smoking is
permitted in hotel room.


5. Travelers may take the Dublin Aircoach (7 Euro one way,
departure every 15 minutes) or a taxi (approximately 25 Euro
one way) to city centre.


6. Accommodation Exchange: Post does not have check cashing
or money changing facilities. Major credit cards are widely
accepted; ATM machines accept most major U.S. bankcards, and
offer the best exchange rates.

SECURITY INFORMATION FOR IRELAND


7. Post is unaware of direct threats against Americans or
U.S. interests in Ireland, and Ireland remains a relatively
safe country where anti-American sentiment is rare. For
additional threat assessment information regarding Ireland,
you may contact DS/DSS/ITA (Diplomatic Security's Office of
Intelligence and Threat Assessment) in the State Department
at 202-663-0787. TDY visitors staying longer than 30 days
should schedule a briefing with the Regional Security Officer.


8. Street Crime: Like any large urban center, Dublin has its
share of street crime, especially pick-pocketing and
purse-snatching. Valuables should not be left unattended in
cars and should be kept in hotel safe deposit boxes. Do not
carry large amounts of cash. Violent confrontations and use
of firearms are rare, however, and with reasonable
precautions and common sense visitors should be able to enjoy
a safe visit. Police services are excellent; the number for
emergency services in Ireland is 999 or 112.


9. Terrorism: Ireland, like the rest of the world, shares an
increased threat of terrorist incidents of international
origin. Travelers should remain aware of their surroundings
and report suspicious people or activities to the police or
RSO.

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Visit Dublin's Classified Website:
http://www.state.sgov.gov/p/eur/dublin/index. cfm
KENNY