We are traveling to Ireland (Dublin and Southern areas only) in about 3 weeks. Is there any cause for concern in light of the recent turmoil in Northern Ireland? The state department has posted a mild warning until 8/31. Just curious. Thanks.

Hi, IMO there is no cause for concern whatsoever, except what you would normally have in a unknown city. I used to live in Dublin, back in the 80's when there was a lot more activity going on and never had one bad experience. Last March we drove from Dublin to Belfast at the same time there was an outbreak of "Troubles" and we didn't have any problems. As far as Dublin and the south is concerned you will be absolutely fine. Enjoy yourself.

The Orange societies march every July in Northern Ireland and each time it seems to stir up the troubles a bit. By August it should have settled down and you'll have no real cause for alarm in Dublin and the Republic. Have an Irish friend who came to U.S. from Dublin 20 years ago. The family still has a home in Derry, but he plans to be in the U.S. by the end of June for the month of July.

R McCall, <BR>There is absoluely no cause for concern - I am living in Ireland and the only thing you need to worry about in the Republic and Dublin is the traffic and seeing everything you want in the short time you have. The problems are concenrated in certain parts of Northern Ireland. I would advise against travelling into the North with a republic registered car for the months of July and August ie the height of the marching season. If you have any questions post here and I will try and answer them, <BR> <BR>Have a good time and prepare for cold wet weather - rain and more rain at the moment with a promise of better things to come later <BR> <BR>Cathy

Hi, <BR> <BR>Just to alay your fears - all violent activities are concentrated in the North - the Six Counties, just as Cathy has confirmed. As a somewhat ambivilant 20 something year old, Norhtern Ireland could be a million miles away...I work for a US company based in the south of Ireland and our US colleagues are amazed to see how far removed we are both physically and mentally from the issues in the North. <BR>Worry not - you're trip will not be affected in the slightest - as Cathy said the major issues you may have are Traffic, the train strike and the weather - currently a little unseasonal <BR>Enjoy your vacation ... <BR>Fiona.