Map

Host Country, Ireland

Ireland, also known as the land of Saints and Scholars, is located off the coast of England and Wales. Ireland’s land area is 84,421 km2 with a population of about 4.8 million. In just over a generation, Ireland has achieved an enviable reputation as a thriving, knowledge-driven economy. The country now has one of the highest gross domestic products (GDP) per capita within the European Union, a result of its hard work and exceptional growth.
Ireland’s capital city of Dublin was originally founded as a Viking settlement in the 8th century. Since that long-lost time, Ireland has grown into one of Europe’s centres for education and innovation. A growing number of tourists visit Dublin and other parts of Ireland every year to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage and history.

Visa Information

Foreign nationals entering Ireland are generally required to have a valid passport and Irish visa assigned by an overseas branch of an Irish embassy or consular office. Other options are also available for symposium participants. Visit the Visa Information page of this website for more information.

Banks & Currency

Euro (€) is the currency in use in Ireland. Visa and Master Card are all widely accepted in pubs, shops and restaurants throughout the country. Traveller’s cheques can be cashed at most hotels and banks.
General Bank Opening Hours:
Monday, Tuesday & Friday: 10.00-16.00
Wednesday: 10.30-16.00
Thursday: 10.00-17.00

Climate

Mild and temperate (showers can occur any time of the year.) May temperatures range from 7 – 15 degrees C (45-59 F).

Time Difference

Irish Standard Time (IST): UTC/GMT +1 hours (Daylight Saving Time is applied in Ireland).

Tax Refunds

Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged at 23% on most goods when purchased in a store. Further details about whether you can claim back your tax, together with the process are available here.

Tipping

Tipping is a generally accepted practice in restaurants, bars, taxis, and hotel porters. A service charge may be included in some restaurants and should be stated on the menu, but otherwise a discretionary item.

Shopping and Post Offices

Shops general operating hours: Monday-Saturday, 09:00-18:00 with later opening hours on Thursday evenings. Most major stores/shops open on Sunday. Some shops have reduced operating times: 10:30-18:00.

Smoking Not Permitted

Ireland has a strict ban on smoking. Smoking is prohibited in public areas within Ireland including all bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. You may inquire if your hotel room is a smoking or non-smoking room. Some outside venues will include designated smoking areas.

Telecommunications / Cell Phones

For international visitors, only digital phones with GSM subscriptions and a roaming agreement will work in Ireland. Visitors should consult with their supplier before departure. Networks widely available are: Three, Vodafone and Meteor. The country code for dialling Ireland is +353.
Electricity
Electric Current: 240 Volts AV
Plug type: 3 large flat prong British type plug. BS1363 system.

Insurance

All Congress attendees are advised to arrange private travel insurance. The Congress organisers and committee accept no liability for personal accidents or damage to property while in attendance at the Congress. The Organising Committee of World Potato Congress 2022 reserves the right to amend and alter the Congress programme and events without prior notice and accepts no liability as a result of such actions.