It may be a non-existent entity at the moment but that's not to say the caretaker Irish government are slacking from their duties. Attempting to put together a ministerial cabinet is not exactly going well at the moment but as things stand, each department is still ticking away and the outgoing ministers are still clinging on in a caretaker capacity.
And they're not taking that position lightly, case in point Charlie Flanagan and the Department of Foreign Affairs. With Euro 2016 now less than two months away, it was about time that we were given some advice on how to head off to France without making an absolute holy show of ourselves. Or, if we do make a holy show of ourselves, there's also some advice on how we can get back to Ireland in one piece.
And while we do say that in some jest, the reality of the situation is that security is going to be very tight in France this summer so, as much fun as we're going to have, it is important to remember some of these tips could be crucial to ensure that the worst case scenario doesn't come to pass.
Department of Foreign Affairs Euro 2016 tips:
1. Check your passport now and make sure that it is valid for duration of your intended travel. Make a copy of it and email it to yourself and a family member at home, in case it gets lost or stolen and you need replacement travel documents.
2. Bring your European Health Insurance Card with you.
3. Plan your itinerary and accommodation well in advance.
4. Get travel insurance.
5. Register with the Department of Foreign Affairs so you can be reached in an emergency.
6. Familiarise yourself with local laws and customs – then obey them.
7. Call, text or post on social media to let family and friends know you’re safe.
8. Steer clear of trouble, drink responsibly and behave respectfully when engaging with local authorities, including local law enforcement agencies.
9. For an emergency in France dial 112. For consular assistance from the Irish Embassy in Paris, a dedicated phone line will go live on 10th June: +33 1441 767 80. You can also send an email query through the Embassy’s website.
11. (Not really a tip) Come on you boys in green.
We've noticed that there is nothing concerning the possibility that Ireland may be woefully shite again when it comes down to kick off. With that in mind, we've asked the department if there are any additional tips to deal with such a situation or other miscellaneous dangers like John Delaney trying to buy you a pint. We'll update when we get word.
