Rugby World Cup
25,000 Irish citizens are expected to attend matches at the Rugby World cup, which kicks off tomorrow in Japan.
The Government is urging fans to remember that they're representing Ireland while visiting the country.
According to research just 9% of Japanese people have a strong awareness of Ireland.
Andy Farrell says the squad are building the intensity nicely and there's a significant 'bite' to training this week.#TeamOfUS #ShoulderToSoulder pic.twitter.com/20UHyBjLX2
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) September 18, 2019
It hopes to capitalise on the opportunity the rugby world cup presents by rolling out a tourism and trade advertising campaign in Japan.
The Department of Foreign Affairs is also advising Irish supporters to be sensitive to local customs and not be too loud.
"This is the Global Ireland strategy in action" - @simoncoveney
Today Tánaiste Coveney and Ministers Humphreys and Ross launched the cross-government strategy for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan #GlobalIreland #RWC19 pic.twitter.com/q8JMhT2lQW
— Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) September 19, 2019
The advice is to avoid tipping and public displays of affection as they're not customary.
It's also warned those travelling not to break the law as penalties for minor offences can be far stricter than at home.
The Department says it will have additional staff in Japan for the tournament.
