World Cup fans urged to be 'Ambassadors for Ireland'

Tourism Ireland, the all island body responsible for promoting Ireland overseas, has called on the support of all Irish fans travelling to Japan to become the ultimate ambassadors for Ireland at this year's World Cup.

A humorous but practical translation phrase book has been produced for fans which includes both direct and phonetic translations to ensure that fans have no trouble being understood while at the Games.

Translations are provided for these essential phrases for any football fan. These include "the referee was blind" and "you'll never beat the Irish." There are also a few more practical phrases such as "I'm lost," "Where is the nearest Irish pub?" and instructions on asking directions and currency information. More importantly the phrase book contains details for arranging holidays in Ireland which fans are encouraged to distribute to their hosts while in Japan.

The booklet also provides help on navigating the tricky area of Japanese customs. Some customs are polar opposites of what Irish fans will be used to, for example, in Japan leaving your glass full indicates that you've had enough, it is considered rude to tip anyone and a shirt would never be removed in public.

To spread the word further, Tourism Ireland has also produced green t-shirts with the slogan 'Ireland - Where even strangers say Hello' on the front and the company's logo and website address on the back.

Speaking at the launch of the Tourism Ireland Japanese Books, Jim Paul, Head of Tourism Ireland's Longhaul division, said: "Obviously with an international audience the World Cup is an excellent opportunity to promote Ireland in Japan. Everybody knows that the Irish football fans are the very best in the world and are always wonderful ambassadors for Ireland.

"There can be no better advertisement for Ireland than its people. We hope that the fans will encourage their hosts to visit them in Ireland, so that we can return the hospitality that will undoubtedly be shown the Irish fans during the World Cup."

(MB)