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		<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=33441</link>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Sep 2010 05:50:14 UTC</pubDate>
		
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					<title><![CDATA[Upcoming Events]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=33449</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
This page will be updated regularly with information on upcoming
events with an Ireland/Japan flavour. Please check back often to
see if there is anything that you might find of interest. To have
your event included on this listing, please apply using 
this form (Word 50kb).



EXHIBITION
Koizumi Yakumo - The Secret of Lafcadio
HearnSaturday 26 June - Sunday 5 September
Exhibition commemorating the 160th Anniversary of Lafcadio Hearn's
birth and the 120th Anniversary of his arrival in Japan.
Venue: Contemporary Art Museum Kumamoto
For more details, please contact the museum.
TEL 096-278-7500 / E-mail gamadas@camk.or.jp


EXHIBITION
Richard Gorman, Paintings and Prints
(Tokyo) Saturday 11 September - Sunday 24 October
(Tochigi) Saturday 30 October - Sunday 28 November
Richard Gorman is one of Ireland's most celebrated contemporary
artists. This exhibition is a collection of his works from 1998
when he first exhibited in Japan.
Venue: Mitaka CityGallery of Art (Tokyo) &amp;amp; Ashikaga
Museum of Art (Tochigi)
For more information and enquiries:
- MitakaCity Gallery of Art(Tokyo)
http://mitaka.jpn.org/gallery/

http://mitaka.jpn.org/ticket/100911g/

TEL 0422-79-0033
- Ashikaga Museum of Art (Tochigi)
http://www.watv.ne.jp/~ashi-bi/

TEL 0284-43-3131
[Related Workshop: Kids Art Club]
1) Explore with Mr. Gorman - Forest of Colours and Shapes
Monday, 20 September, 10:30-15:30
at Mitaka City Gallery of Art, Art Culture Centre, B1F Art
Studio
for up to 20 elementary school students.
Fee: 2,000 yen
Application deadline: Saturday 11 September
2) Let's Gorman! Colourful Strategy
Sunday, 3 October, 14:00-16:00
at Mitaka City Gallery of Art
for up to 10 elementary school students
Fee: 500 yen
Application deadline: Friday 24 September
* For application and more information, please see http://mitaka.jpn.org/gallery/



MUSIC
Rory Gallagher Tribute Festival in Japan 2010
Sunday 19 September
Doors open 15:30 Start 16:00
Featuring artists: 309, Little Wing, KKKR, O.E. Gallagher
Venue: SPACE WITH (Iidabashi, Tokyo)
For more details and enquiries:
rory_festival@yahoo.co.jp

http://www.geocities.jp/rory_festival/e-index.html



CONFERENCE
The 46th Annual Conference of the Yeats Society of
Japan
Saturday 25 - Sunday 26 September
Venue: Ryukyu University (Okinawa)
Guest speaker: Emeritus Professor Okifumi Komesu (Ryukyu
University) who will speak on cultural similarity between Ireland
and Okinawa.
For more details and enquiries, please see the Society's
website:
http://www.konan-wu.ac.jp/~tanigawa/Unicorn_Web/top.htm



FESTIVAL
The 21st Mitaka International Exchange
FestivalSunday 26 September, 10:00-16:00
Festival to promote cultural exchange: music, food and crafts from
all over the world. Irish Network Japan will have a booth offering
Irish beers (including Guinness) and other Irish goods. Also there
will be Irish music &amp;amp; dance performances.
Venue: Inokashira West Park (Mitaka City, Tokyo)
Admission free
Festival Organiser: Mitaka International Society for Hospitality
(MISHOP)
For more details and enquiries:
MISHOP www.mishop.jp
TEL 0422-43-7812 mishop@parkcity.jp


LECTURE/SYMPOSIUM
Lecture &amp;amp; Symposium on Lafcadion Hearn
Sunday 26 September
To mark the 120th anniversary of his arrival in Japan and the 160th
anniversary of his birth, Kumamoto University Library will organise
a public lecture followed by a symposium on Lafcadio Hearn.
Venue: Kumamoto University, 100th Anniversary Memorial Hall
For details and enquiries:
sh-nakamura@jimu.kumamoto-u.ac.jp

www.lib.kumamoto-u.ac.jp



THEATRE
Theatre Trouep EN: Scenes from the Big Picture
Friday 1 - Sunday 10 October
Theatre Troupe EN performs the Owen McCafferty's play, a blend of
tragedy and comedy or a reminiscent of Bertolt Brecht's and Harold
Pinter's plays.
Venue: Kinokuniya Hall (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
For more details and ticket information:
www.en21.co.jp
TEL 03-5828-0654


EXHIBITION
Koizumi Yakumo Exhibition
Saturday 2 October - Sunday 14 November
To mark the 160th anniversary of his birth and the 120th
anniversary of his arrival in Japan, this exhibition will introduce
the life and works of Lafcadio Hearn, including his link with
Kanagawa. There will also be public lectures and reading
event.
Venue: Kanagawa Museum of Modern Literature (Yokohama City)
Events:9 Oct. lecture by Mr. Masao Higashi
(anthologist, literary critic)
23 Oct. reading by Mr. Shiro Sano (actor)
31 Oct. lecture by Prof. Bon Koizumi (University of Shimane Junior
College/ great-grandchild of L. Hearn)
3 Nov. lecture by Mr. Noboru Tsujihara (writer)
For more details, tickets and enquiries:
Kanagawa Museum of Modern Literature
TEL 045-622-6666
FAX 045-623-4841
www.kanabun.or.jp


EXHIBITION/SEMINAR
Financial Information Technology 2010 (FIT2010)
Thursday 7 - Friday 8 October
FIT2010 will provide the solutions of IT investment, which will be
one of the most
important management strategies for financial institutions.
Experian (Japan) which has its HQ in Dublin, will be among
the exhibitors.
Venue: Tokyo International Forum Exhibition Hall
Organiser: The Japan Financial News Co.,Ltd. (Nikkin)
For more details and enquiries:
FIT-FAIR@NIKKIN.CO.JP or
03-3261-9971
http://www.nikkin.co.jp/fit2010/



CONFERENCE
IASIL-Japan The 27th International Conference: “Offshore Irelands:
Irish Influence and Influences”
Saturday 9 - Sunday 10 October
Annual Conference for Irish Literature and Culture. We invite two
poets (Dennis O’Driscoll &amp;amp; Julie O’Callaghan) as guest
lecturers from Ireland, in addition to two symposia and 10 paper
readings.
Venue: The University of Tokyo, Komaba Campus
For details, please see their website
or contact the IASIL-Japan Office (Prof. Kazuhiro Doki of Aichi
University of Education):
Tel: 0566-26-2244
Email: kdoki@auecc.aichi-edu.ac.jp



EXHIBITION
The Open Mind of Lafcadio Hearn: Homage to Lafcadio Hearn (Art
Exhibition)
1) Sunday 10 October - Wednesday 3 November
2) Saturday 6 November - Sunday 14 November
This year, the City of Matsue is commemorating the 160th
anniversary of his birth and the 120th anniversary of his arrival
in Japan. Matsue is one of the cities Lafcadio loved most, hence
his adoption of the name Koizumi Yakumo.
On this special occasion, an International Art Exhibition,
rendering “Yakumo’s world and spirituality” will be held in Matsue
Castle, and in the Koizumi Yakumo Memorial Museum, Matsue,
Japan.
Venue:
1) Matsue Castle &amp;amp; Koizumi Yakumo Memorial Museum (Matsue,
Shimane)
2) Karakoro Art Studio &amp;amp; Koizumi Yakumo Memorial Museum
(Matsue, Shimane)
For more details: http://yakumokai.org/2170
Enquiries:
Shoko Koizumi (Ms.)
Director of the Lafcadio Hearn Society
Tel: +81852272140
Email: shoko_koizumi812@yahoo.co.jp

Takis Efstathiou (Mr.)
International Cultural Coordinator of the Lafcafdio Hearn
Society
Email: takisefstathiou@yahoo.com



MUSIC
Kitajima traditional night Vol.14 - Handdlion
concert
Sunday 17 October, 14:30-16:30
The annual concert of traditional Irish music in Kitajima-cho,
Tokushima Pref. This year's concert features Handdlion: Masumi
Sakaue (Irish harp), Mana Okubo (Fiddle) and Yuka Fujino (Button
accordion).
Venue: Kitajima-cho Public Library Sousei Hall (Tokushima
Pref.)
For details &amp;amp; tickets, please contact: TEL 088-698-1100


LECTURE
Lecture Series on Celtic CultureEvery Saturday 16
October - 18 December
(10 lectures; 11:00-12:30)
Chuo University Crescent Academy (Open College) hosts a lecture
series on Celtic culture. Topics include storytelling and poems.
Lectures are Prof. Masatoshi Kimura, Prof. Keishin Kosuge and Prof.
Ken'ichi Matsumura.
Venue: Chuo University, Surugadai Memorial Hall (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
(Access)
For more details, please see the website.
Enquiries and Applications:
Chuo University Crescent Academy Office
TEL 042-674-2267
(Applications will be accepted from end August until 15 October or
until it is fully booked.)


MUSIC
Soka International Harp Festival 2010
October – Sunday 21 November
The annual harp festival in Soka City, Saitama Pref., including
competition and concerts.
The main two concerts will be held at Soka City Culture Hall on
Saturday 20 November and Sunday 21 November
For more details and ticket information, please contact:
Soka City Cultural Association at 048-931-9326


CONCERT
Celtic Christmas 2010
Saturday 11 December
This year's Celtic Christmas concert features L&#250;nasa (Ireland), LAU
(Scotland) and Valravn (Denmark/Faroe Islands).
Venue: Sumida Triphony Hall (Sumida-ku, Tokyo)
For details &amp;amp; tickets, please contact: Plankton Co., Ltd. TEL
03-3498-2881
www.plankton.co.jp


For those of you who are interested in keeping up-to-date with
what's happening at home, the Irish Times has launched a free
online edition at www.irishtimes.com . The Irish
Independent also has a free online edition of its paper at
   www.independent.ie.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:03:56 UTC</pubDate>
		
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					<title><![CDATA[Embassy Closure Dates]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=33447</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
The Embassy is closedon Saturdays and Sundays, and major
Japanese and some Irish public holidays.

Embassy closure dates inSeptember 2010 are:
Saturdays and Sundays
Monday 20th (Respect-for-the-Aged Day)
Thursday 23rd (Autumnal Equinox Day)


]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:41:22 UTC</pubDate>
		
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				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[2010]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83299</link>
					<description><![CDATA[]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:50:22 UTC</pubDate>
		
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					<title><![CDATA[Address by Governor Patrick Honohan]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83971</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Fast-Growth Economies:
Sustainable and Unsustainable Examples from Europe and Asia
Address by Governor Patrick Honohan
to Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce, Tokyo
19 August 2010



Traveling to East Asia from Ireland, as I have been doing off and
on for almost a quarter of a century, has always been accompanied
by an air of expectation: What will be the most evident new
examples of how fast the Asian economies been evolving? It is no
different today. As usual this is the fastest-growing regional
economy on earth. And I am coming to you today from what is
temporarily a country buffeted by a contractionary shock. Europe as
a whole has suffered badly from the global recession, and the Irish
economy has been one of the worst hit – reflecting the fact that we
had allowed the economy to overheat rather badly.


But it is important to emphasise that Europe too has had its
fast-growth regions and countries also in the recent past and will
continue to have them in the future. After all, fast growth is not
regionally biased, but can occur in at least three distinct ways,
which I can call the convergent, the unsustainable and the
agglomerative.



Fast growth of the convergent type is available only to countries
which have fallen behind what is often termed the global
productivity frontier and are catching up with the rest.


Unsustainable surges of fast growth are generally driven (or at
least supported) by bank credit or public borrowing: this is the
boom and bust type.


The third form is more intriguing, and is observed in some small
countries or sub-national regions that secure some special
advantage involving economies of agglomeration.



All three forms of fast growth are exemplified both in recent East
Asian history, and they are also exemplified in Europe. Not only
that, but each type plays its part of the story of Ireland’s rapid
growth over the past twenty years before the recent set-backs.


Convergent growth


When it comes to the greatest success stories of recent fast-growth
economies, of course there is no denying the primacy of the Asian
miracle. After all, most of the East Asian economy as a whole is in
a phase of convergence, and its great cities benefit from being the
entrepots and the intellectual, entrepreneurial, and administrative
centres of the vast expansion in economic activity that is
associated with this convergence of living standards for some 2
billion people to what economists have long called the production
frontier.


This term production frontier, I guess, was partly inspired by
American economists mesmerized by the expansion of European
colonization into the ever retreating Western US frontier of the
mid-19th Century. Exploiting the agricultural and mineral potential
of that continent offered, for a while, unlimited opportunities for
growth and underpinned the can-do attitude to prosperity which has
survived in that part of the world right to the present day, even
though production possibilities are nowadays limited more by access
to human and technological capital.


Convergent growth in Ireland


For over three decades after Ireland became independent almost a
century ago, policy debate seems to have been largely free of any
form of such ―frontier‖ thinking. Rather than converging, Ireland
had been exporting what was seen as its surplus population to fuel
growth in the New World as well as in the UK and elsewhere. The
pattern had long been established of emigration by those who sought
a wider horizon and better opportunities than seemed available at
home. Economic policy was geared towards a defensive and
inward-looking maintenance of the status quo. As late as the 1950s,
getting a good price in the British market for our beef and dairy
products seemed the height of national ambition.


Then, belatedly, and as a response to the deepening malaise of
economic stagnation in the middle of the last century, a new and
energetic internationalist mindset suddenly began to take hold in
Ireland:


Why could Ireland not become a producer of a wider range of the
goods and services in demand worldwide? If it was education that
was lacking, that would be provided for all from the public purse;
if it was enterprise and market know-how, this too could be
sourced, in the first instance by encouraging the entry of foreign
multinationals with grants, a low tax rate and above all a
welcoming attitude.


That Ireland is now the most globalised economy on earth – OK,
maybe Singapore and Hong Kong run us close – is directly
attributable to that policy shift of over a half-century ago, a
shift which set us on an export-driven course of openness
considered conventional today but which was relatively pioneering
at the time.


The formula was a successful one, albeit one that was derailed by
policy errors in the 1970s from which the 1980s recovery was at
first a slow one. Gradually the exodus from traditional
labour-intensive agriculture and other low-productivity sectors was
absorbed not by emigration but at home in activities – often
computer-mediated – that increasingly matched global productivity
standards. Better-educated young women and men took their chances
in an increasingly flexible labour market.


New business-like working methods and a respect for the discipline
of the market percolated through the economy from the wave of US
and other multinational companies who found Ireland a profitable
productive base.


Equally important, enthusiastic engagement with cooperative policy
development of the European Union helped to leaven traditional
approaches to public administration.


Positioned in the geography of ideas mid-way between Boston and
Berlin, the Irish economy, as it leapt forward in the 1990s, seemed
to benefit from the best of both of these worlds. The momentum
built and by the 1990s was spectacular, with rapid employment
growth stimulating a reversal of the traditional pattern of
migration.


By the late 1990s – the performance of the Irish economy was being
talked about in the same awed terms as that of East Asia.


From 1988 to 2007 real GDP expanded by 6 per cent per annum on
average (reaching double digits on average during 1995-2000). Even
more astonishing, the unemployment rate shrank from 16 per cent (on
the ILO basis) in 1994 to 4 per cent in 2000 – essentially full
employment for the first time in modern Irish history.
Non-agricultural employment jumped from 33 per cent of the
population in 1993 to 41 per cent in 2000 and 46 per cent by 2007.
With Ireland at the frontier of economic prosperity, surely this
was an economic miracle to be studied and replicated.


The Celtic Tiger, it seemed, could grow as quickly as its Asian
cousins and for a sustained period. Growth miracles could happen
and were happening in Europe also!


Unsustainable growth in Ireland


If we fast forward to the present, the talk is all about the
setbacks that have occurred to the Irish economy. It is natural for
observers to ask: was it all a chimera: a bubble masquerading as a
tiger?


It is important to avoid this interpretative trap. In fact, the
rapid and sustained growth of Irish output and employment in the
1990s was – as I have indicated – based on a belated export-led
convergence to Western European productivity and living standards
as an increasingly well-educated labour force, priced itself
competitively and adapted flexibly to the evolving global economy.
The role of foreign-based multinational corporations in mediating
between Ireland and the rest of the world was already a
long-established feature reflecting in particular the favourable
tax regime: over half of manufacturing employment was already in
foreign-owned firms by the 1980s.


The speed of the convergence in then 1990s reflected how far the
economy had been held back by policy errors of the 1970s and
80s—errors which had pushed unemployment close to 20 per cent and
had discouraged many women especially from entering the labour
force. To be sure, conventional data somewhat flattered the real
situation to the extent that some of the output growth reflected
profits due to the multinational firms. But the new levels of
employment and income reached by the turn of the millennium were
real and sustainable. Had Ireland stopped to take stock and
consolidate at that point, we would be in a better position now
than we are.


But the growth had been so heady, with success seeming to build on
success, that stopping to take stock was not on many agendas.


The elusive goal of agglomerative growth in Ireland


Indeed, given the growing rate of net immigration, it was not easy
to see what the natural limit on the size of the Irish economy
might be. After all, look at Hong Kong and Singapore: with a higher
population on a much smaller land platform and living standards as
high as Europe. Sure enough, the world production frontier would
define an outer limit to productivity, and as such to per capita
income, but the relatively low physical density of population
suggested to many that Ireland’s population could continue to grow,
exploiting economies of agglomeration, if competitiveness were
maintained and investment in infrastructure not neglected.


But it was not to be. As the millennium passed, some of the
preconditions for sustained expansion began to erode: real wages
started to move out of line with international comparators and well
ahead of historic competitiveness norms. The export boom slowed.
Nevertheless, employment and output aggregates continued to
impress, albeit now increasingly heavily reliant on the
construction sector, as demand both from final purchasers with good
jobs and speculators hoping for continued national prosperity made
residential sales easy. The government’s budget became increasingly
reliant on the property market and vulnerable to any interruption
in what was rapidly a world-beating property bubble.


The arrival of the euro – offering an attractive stable monetary
platform for continued expansion – may have played a role also in
fuelling the construction boom. Nominal and real interest rates
dropped sharply as euro membership approached, increasing the
affordability of large mortgages and thus seeming to rationalise a
higher capital value for property. After a brief pause in 2002-3,
the construction and property price boom resumed with heightened
vigour. Banks, including foreign-owned banks, began to source more
and more of their loanable funds in the global financial
market—with no exchange risk, given the borrowing was in euros. By
2006, net foreign borrowing of Irish mortgage lenders exceeded 60
per cent of GDP and Irish banks were even financing the purchase of
a growing share of prime property in the UK, US, China and
elsewhere by a handful of over-enthusiastic speculative developers.


The Irish banking and property lending debacle had a few things in
common with that of the US; but in large part it was a home-grown
affair, driven by an over-optimistic misinterpretation of the
nature of the Celtic Tiger and the basis of the earlier success.
Egregious lending abuses were not prominent features and there was
essentially no use of complex mortgage-backed securities.


Only the timing of its denouement really coincided with the global
financial crisis. The revulsion and suspicion of financial market
lenders after the collapse of Lehman Brothers rationally focused on
those banks that had taken the most extreme bets, and in such an
environment, the Irish property merry-go-round was doomed.


The same occurred with other – even more damaging – contemporary
financial crises in Latvia and Iceland: neither country was
directly influenced by euro membership, but still both of them were
able to draw on the elastic availability of international banking
funds, and both arranged their financial markets in such a way that
borrowers were faced with low nominal interest rates.


Contrary, then, to the image of Europe as inevitably slow-growing,
peddled by some observers, Ireland is not unique among European
countries in exhibiting exaggeratedly rapid growth. Dynamism is
present; it simply needs to be harnessed. Policy complacency is
what has been the Achilles heel of these rapidly growing economies:
they did and do have the potential for relatively rapid growth, but
at a lower rate than was observed, and with the need to guard
against the emergence of unbridgeable imbalances.


Put that way, we see the relevance also to Greece, though in the
case of Greece, the origin of the problem was not in banking, but
in fiscal and wage rate aspects—and it may well be that part of the
complacency there too was associated with an exaggerated
understanding of what the secure platform of the euro can deliver
and what it cannot.


Although there are important differences, I would like to emphasise
the parallels between what Ireland has experienced and the famous
East Asia crisis of 1997-98. In both cases a strong underlying
convergence in living standards had been under-way for some years.
In both cases the countries had made themselves vulnerable by
relying heavily on short-term foreign borrowing through the banking
system, and had allowed a property price and construction boom to
get out of hand. In this interpretation, a viable convergent
process spun out of
control into unsustainable territory. And, encouragingly for us
today, recovery from the collapse was – in varying degrees – speedy
and comprehensive.


Sources of fast and stately growth


This discussion helps us recognize both of the potential
sustainable sources of rapid national economic growth – the
convergent and the agglomerative – and the unsustainable type. All
three types are also evident in the East Asian experience also.


First then, is convergence to the production frontier. This is
exemplified by the early true Celtic Tiger period in Ireland in the
1990s as employment rates in the modern sector of the economy grew.
It is also reflected in the rapid growth rates of China, Malaysia
and other emerging economies as they have successfully adopted
efficient and highly productive technologies throughout more and
more of their economies. The transition economies of Central and
Eastern Europe have shown that this phenomenon is also very much
realisable in that part of the world also. And the fact that Greece
lies well inside the production frontier is a consideration which
allows some headway for part of their debt management problem to be
resolved in time through convergence of productive efficiency.


The second sustainable rapid growth mechanism, agglomeration, is
exemplified by what has been achieved by Singapore and Hong Kong
even since they reached the production frontier. I include under
this loose heading any form of sustainable national or urban growth
through the application of both more labour and more capital:
because of the efficiencies offered by agglomeration, and also
exploiting particular advantages of their locations, these cities
have managed to become more highly productive than one might expect
from mere replication. But sustainable fast agglomerative growth it
is not always attainable even by a small country or region,
especially if cost competitiveness is not maintained. There may
also be inherent limitations to such growth, as congestion costs
increase. As we have seen, the hope that Ireland could become
super-productive in this way proved illusory.


The third, and unsustainable, growth path is the property boom
financed by credit and driven more by hope than any real underlying
demand. The sums borrowed and the resources applied – often from
abroad, but sometimes financed by domestic savings – prove to have
been wasted. In Ireland, Iceland and Latvia as in parts of East
Asia in 1997-98, such bubbles collapsed.


When economies reach the production frontier, as have Japan and
Germany, to take the largest examples of both regions, then growth
will inevitably be at a more stately rate. Stagnation is not
entailed, though there can be a danger of an economy getting passed
if complacency seeps in.


Learning from historic errors


Thus, taking both regions together, we find examples of all types
of growth path. We can learn from each others’ experience – and
some of us in Europe should have learnt better from the East Asia
crisis.


Fast growth clearly carries the risk of macroeconomic errors as an
unsustainable output, property price or wage boom – whether driven
by reckless private credit expansion or fiscal deficits – in a
potentially fast growing economy (of either of the two sustainable
types I have mentioned) can be masquerading as something
sustainable.


To an extent, the wider crisis of financial innovation with its
epicenter in the US and which spilled over into the UK and into
major banks in other mature countries too before triggering the
sharp global recession of 2008-9 (itself strongly influenced by the
widespread but thankfully contained loss of confidence in financial
intermediation generally) was also a misunderstanding of real and
unsustainable progress. But such occurrences, which can happen in
mature economies – an earlier one was the dot.com and tech bubble
of the late 1990s – tend to be smaller in amplitude. The greater
risks are in potentially fast-growing economies.


Two policy problems arise: how to prevent such policy errors, and
how to recover from an error. The first is more challenging
conceptually, the latter more challenging politically.


In the euro area, we could do more to exploit a mechanism not
available in Asia, which I believe potentially assists in both of
these dimensions. The tight cooperation which exists between euro
area countries, both at the level of macroeconomic policy
coordination and in the stable anchor of a widely used common
currency helps to provide both a discipline and a mechanism for
peer review that can be very beneficial to avoiding complacency and
other sources of policy error. Exploiting this potential could all
work better, though and the EU is working on institutional
innovation to help deliver this.


Indeed, it may well be that complacency about the automatic
effectiveness of these stabilisers lulled policymakers both in some
of the Euro area countries – most conspicuously Greece, but also in
others including Ireland, into a sense of false security – in
Greece with regard to fiscal policy; in Ireland with regard to
banking policy, to speak only of these two.


For it seems the market too had become complacent. Lax policy was
not punished by the discipline of the market until it was too late,
and until wage rates had gotten out of line and the fiscal
vulnerabilities worsened. Admittedly this was much more pronounced
in Greece than in others such as Ireland, and the needed adjustment
may be more wrenching there. But a lesson has been learnt by all.


Led by Ireland, all of the euro area countries that have come under
pressure have begun to take vigorous corrective action on wages and
on fiscal deficits generally. Adjustment is a task which will not
be accomplished overnight, indeed, when the exceptional financial
support needed from government to fill the hole created by the
accumulated banking losses in Ireland is added to the fiscal
deficit on regular operations, the headline figure for the Irish
government deficit in 2010 will experience a remarkable one-off
spike in the statistics. That jump is, though, a sign of the
thoroughgoing and transparent clean-up that is in progress on the
banking side, and of the measured but tough spending and tax
adjustment that is in progress in the rest of the government
accounts.


These countries are adjusting, and they know they are supported by
the huge backstop financial commitments of EU partner countries
announced in May of this year, and by the monetary stability
ensured by ECB policy. They also know that they cannot again allow
public spending, credit and wages to get out of line, because of
the painful adjustments that this implies. Already, national
spending is, more or less, back in line with national production in
Ireland: by next year there will no longer be a current account
deficit in the balance of international payments. When the
budgetary adjustment is accomplished, a chastened polity will help
ensure stability-oriented policies that will be key to a renewed
engagement in the global economy: especially, but not only, for
countries such as Ireland which are among the most globalised on
earth. The customers for our exports: increasingly Asia for sure.
The investors: likely also to be shifting more in the direction of
Asia from which investment in Ireland’s traditionally highly
profitable MNC sector is, to date, still underweight.


Many opportunities then, for what I am confident will be a more
stable future.


ENDS


Further information: Press Office +353 (0) 224
6299


Notes to editors


Governor Honohan’s visit to Asia as part of an OMFIF delegation
starts on 12 August and ends on 20 August.


For further background see www.omfif.org and Governor Honohan’s
article in the July/August edition of the OMFIF Bulletin:

http://www.omfif.org/downloads/OMFIF_Bulletin_2010-07.pdf#page=14

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:47:20 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[The Taoiseach]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83969</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
The Taoiseach of Ireland is Brian Cowen. The Taoiseach is the head
of the Government and coordinates the work of the Ministers and
their Departments of State. The Taoiseach advises and guides the
other members of the Government when faced particularly with issues
requiring the successful working of the Government as a collective
authority responsible to D&#225;il &#201;ireann. The Taoiseach will set broad
Government policy.


The Taoiseach keeps the President informed on domestic and
international policy.


The Taoiseach has certain statutory responsibilities for the reform
of the law, for official statistics and for the administration of
public services which are not the responsibility of any other
member of the Government.


If the Taoiseach feels that an issue is of great importance he/she
can bring responsibility for the project within the control of the
Department of the Taoiseach. For example, the Taoiseach
co-ordinates the contribution to government policy on Northern
Ireland and on Irelands relations to the European Union;
   The
   Department of the Taoiseach also has overall responsibility
   for the National Economic and Social Council, the National
   Economic and Social Forum, the Information Society Commission,
   the Government Press Service, the National Centre for
   Partnership and Performance and the coordination of relations
   with the social partners under the partnership agreements.


Brian Cowen was made Taoiseach on the 7th May 2008. He was
appointed as T&#225;naiste and re-appointed as Minister for Finance on
14th June, 2007 having first been appointed Minister for Finance in
September 2004. He has served as Minister for Foreign Affairs
from January 2000 to September 2004; Minister for Health and
Children from June 1997 to January 2000; Minister for Transport,
Energy and Communications from January 1993 to December 1994;
Minister for Labour from February 1992 to January 1993. He
was first elected to the Dail in a by-election in June 1984 caused
by the death of his father, Bernard Cowen. That was the first
time he had contested an election for public office.


Party front bench spokesperson on Agriculture, Food and Forestry
December 1994 to March 1997 and on Health from March 1997 to June
1997.


The Taoiseach nominates the T&#225;naiste and the other members of the
Government for the approval of the D&#225;il and assigns the particular
Departments to the Ministers on their appointment by the President.
The Taoiseach also nominates the Attorney General for appointment
by the President. The Taoiseach has the power to advise the
President to accept the resignation of Ministers.




]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:53:39 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[The President]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83968</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
The Office of President was established by The
Constitution (Bunreacht na h &#201;ireann). The President is elected
directly by the people. To be a candidate a citizen must be over 35
years of age and must be nominated either by:



Not less than 20 members of D&#225;il or Seanad &#201;ireann, or


Not less than 4 administrative counties (including County Boroughs)



Former or retiring Presidents may become candidates on their own
nomination.


The term of office is 7 years and a President may not serve more
than 2 terms. The President must reside in or near Dublin. St.
Patrick's Hall, Dublin Castle, is the venue for Inauguration
ceremonies, at which each President takes an oath as provided in
the Constitution.


The President represents all the people when undertaking official
engagements at home and abroad. The President is Supreme Commander
of the Defence Forces. There have been eight different holders of
the office - Mary McAleese is the current President.


For more information please visit the official website of the
President of Ireland.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:49:26 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Frequently Asked Questions]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=53938</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
If you have a question about Ireland, you can probably find the
answer here!




About travelling to Ireland



Aboutstudying abroad in Ireland



Consular



Culture



Request for materials on Ireland



Others



About travelling to Ireland:



Do I need Visa to visit Ireland?



Japanese Nationals who are travelling to Ireland for a period less
than 90 days do not require a visa. Should the period of stay
exceed 90 days, Japanese nationals will need to register with the
Garda National Immigration Bureau on arrival in Ireland. This can
be done at any Garda (police) station. For non-Japanese nationals,
please see section 'Who needs a visa'



What do I need for registering with the GNIB?



Necessary documentation depends on the case. Please contact
   GNIB for details or see the Irish website on
   citizens’ information: 
http://www.citizensinformation.ie/categories/moving-country/moving-to-ireland/rights-of-residence-in-ireland/registration-of-non-eea-nationals-in-ireland



What is the passport validity requirement to enter Ireland?



Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your
length of stay.



Can I enter Ireland with one-way plane ticket?



Entry into Ireland is at the discretion of the Irish Immigration
Authorities, who examine each case individually.



Can I work in Ireland? (except Working Holiday makers)



In general, non-EEA nationals must have a permit to work in
Ireland. For details and application, please see: http://www.deti.ie/



Where can I get information on Custom Regulations for travellers?



Please see 
http://www.citizensinformation.ie/categories/travel-and-recreation/travel-to-ireland/customs_regulations_for_travellers　



Where can I find information on taking my car to Ireland?



Please see 
http://www.citizensinformation.ie/categories/moving-country/moving-to-ireland/coming-to-live-in-ireland/importing_car_into_ireland


About studying abroad in Ireland:



Where can I find information about language schools in Ireland?



Pleasesee the website ofTourism Ireland http://www.discoverireland.jp/
or MEI-RELSA http://www.mei.ie/



Where can I find information about studying abroad in Irish
Universities?



Please contact Enterprise Ireland: http://www.enterprise-ireland.or.jp/



Is there any scholarship from Irish government to Japanese
citizens?



Yes, the Irish Department of Education and Skills offers a limited
number of scholarships to Japanese graduates each year. Information
will be posted on this website. Alternatively, the website of
JASSO contains information on international scholarships for
Japanese students. http://www.jasso.go.jp/


Consular:



How can I get a passport application form?



Please email (or fax) us to request a form and letting us know your
postal address and we will send it out to you. You can also pick
forms up at the Embassy during our opening hours.



I am an Irish citizen and will get married with a Japanese citizen
in Japan. What kind of documents do I need?



Please see: http://www.irishembassy.jp/home/index.aspx?id=33480



I am a Japanese citizen and will get married with an Irish citizen
in Ireland. What kind of documents do I need?



Please contact the Embassy of Japan in Ireland: http://www.ie.emb-japan.go.jp/



How can I obtain a police clearance certificate from the Japanese
authorities?



Please see the website of Tokyo Metropolitan Police http://www.keishicho.metro.tokyo.jp/foreign/apply/tokoue.htm


Culture:



Where can I get statistics on Ireland?



Please see the website of the Central Statistics Office website:
www.cso.ie



Where can I get information on World Heritage Sites in Ireland?



Please contact Tourism Ireland http://www.discoverireland.jp/
or Heritage Ireland http://www.heritageireland.ie/



Where can I learn Irish dance/traditional music? Where can I get
information on Irish music/dance performance at an event I am
organising?



Please send an email or fax to us to request information. If your
query relates to an event, please make sure that you provide all
the relevant details of this.



How are weddings celebrated?



Church weddings in Ireland are still common though the number of
civil wedding ceremonies at registry offices is increasing.


Request for materials on Ireland:



Where can I obtain some general information about Ireland?



For general information materials on Ireland, please send your
request by mail, specifying language you prefer; English or
Japanese. Please enclose an A4-sized envelope with your name,
address and a 240 yen stamp on it. We will forward you the
materials by mail.
If you would like a large number of copies, please send in your
request by mail or fax, we will send you a package
ascash-on-deliverybasis.
For materials on tourism and English language learning in Ireland,
please see the website of Tourism Ireland.
For materials on study abroad to Ireland (university), please
contact Enterprise Ireland (Tel 03-3263-0611).


Others:



Where can I find information on investing in Ireland?



Please contact IDA Ireland: http://www.idaireland.jp/



Where can I find information on Irish companies active in Japan?



Please contact Enterprise Ireland: http://www.enterprise-ireland.or.jp/



Where can I get information about regulations on posting goods to
Ireland?



Please see Japan Post website: http://www.post.japanpost.jp/int/index_en.html



Which side of road do they drive in Ireland?



People drive on the left same as in Japan. You need an
International Driver's Licence to drive in Ireland.



What is the power voltage in Ireland? Which type of socket is used?



The power voltage is 220 volt / 50 hertz. The Socket is Triple (BF
Type)

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:53:08 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Past events]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=72241</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
You will find a list of past events with an Ireland-Japan
connection here. We have also listedthe events that took
place during the 50th anniversary of Ireland-Japan diplomatic
relations in 2007:



2010
MUSIC
General Fiasco Live at Summer Sonic 2010
7 August 2010 (Tokyo) &amp;amp; 8 August 2010 (Osaka)
Energetic 3-piece indie rock band General Fiasco from Magherafelt,
Northern Ireland are to play in Japan for the first time at Summer
Sonic 2010 with their highly acclaimed debut album “Buildings”
released from the prestigious UK independent label Infectious in
June 2010. They’ve already supported bands such as Snow Patrol, The
Answer and The Enemy amongst others and embarked on their own
headline tour.
Venue: Tokyo/ Chiba Marine Stadium &amp;amp; Makuhari Messe (Mountain
Stage)
Osaka/ Maishima Summer Sonic Osaka Site (Sky Stage)
For more details: www.summersonic.com
(For enquiries about the concert) Creativeman: 03-3462-6969
(For enquiries about the artist) Hostess Entertainment:
03-5724-4414

EXHIBITION
The International High School Arts Festival
Thursday 29 July - Monday 2 August
The Festival features artworks from young people all over the
world, including the winners of Ireland’s Texaco Children’s Art
Competition.
Venue: Ueno Royal Museum
Details: http://www.ihsaf.net/
Enquiries: The International High Shool Arts Festival Organizing
Committee
TEL 03-5336-3507

MUSIC
Eileen Kato Memorial ConcertSaturday 24 July
Eileen KATO n&#233;e Lynn (1932-2008) was the Mayo-born widow of a
Japanese senior diplomat and for fifteen years a goyō gakari (aide)
to the Emperor. She was a recognised expert in Noh theatre in Japan
and translated a number of Japanese literary works. At this event
there will be the world premiere of a song cycle In High
Summer’s Noonlight based on a selection of her poetry, by
Irish composer Paul Hayes. The concert will also include arias and
Irish songs, performed by tenor John Ken Nuzzo and others.
Professor Donald Keene and the Ambassador of Ireland will make a
short address.
Venue: Hillside Plaza (in Hillside Terrace)
29-10 Sarugaku-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0033
TEL: 03-5489-3705
Time: 17:30 (doors open 17:30)
Admission FREE
For reservations contact: Peter MacMillan 0422-21-8007
(Telephone/Fax) or e-mail: macmillanoffice@me.com
NOTE: it is not possible to reserve seats on the day.

FAIR
Ireland Fair 2010Thursday 8 and Friday 9 July
Irish goods market and Irish dance &amp;amp; music performance,
exhibition of photos taken in Ireland and illustrations inspired by
Irish folklore.
Venue: Chiyoda Ward Office 1F Kumin Hall
For more details and concert schedule, please see:
http://www.irelandhouse.co.jp/

http://www.city.chiyoda.lg.jp/event/00119/d0011958.html

Enquiries:
HERO, Co., Ltd. 03-3295-8541
Chiyoda Ward Office 03-5211-3628

THEATRE
Shiko-no-Hana Theatre: TAKA NO IDO
Saturday, 26 June and Monday, 28 June
A new production of Nohgaku and dance collaboration play &quot;At the
Hawk's Well&quot; based on W.B.Yeats' drama in verse. Starring Rokuro
Gensho Umewaka, Yuan Yuan Tan, principal dancer, San Francisco
Ballet and Kanji Moriyama, contemporary dancer.
Venue:
26 June: National Noh Theatre, Tokyo
28 June: Theatre Drama City, Osaka
For information and tickets:
Tokyo Show: Sunrise Promotion Tokyo TEL 0570-00-3337
Osaka Show: Kyodo information TEL 06-7732-8888 (10:00-19:00)


LECTURE
Japan-Ireland Society Open Lecture Series 2010: Ireland and the
World - Cultural Encounters
Saturdays 12, 19 and 26 June
Time: 14:00-17:00
Admission: 500yen
No advance booking required.
Venue: Toyo University, Hakusan Campus Bldg.#6 3F Room6311
Details: http://japan-ireland.karugo.com/


FILM
EU Film Days 2010
Friday 28 May - Sunday 20 June in Tokyo
Tuesday 15 - Friday 25 June in Fukuoka
Sunday 27 - Tuesday 29 June in Saga
The EU Film Days is an annual film festival to screen works from
the EU member states, held as part of the EU-Japan Friendship Week
which is organised to promote people-to-people exchanges between
the EU and Japan.
An oscar-winning Irish film 'Once' is to be shown at 7pm on Friday
11 June and at 7pm on Wednesday 16 June in Tokyo, and at 8.30pm on
Tuesday 29 June in Saga.
Venue: National Film Center, the National Museum of Modern Art,
Tokyo, Fukuoka City Public Library, and Theatre CIEMA in
Saga.
For more information, please see www.eufilmdays.jp

SPEECH/NETWORKING EVENT
A snapshot on the Irish Economy and how Ireland can restore
competitiveness
Monday 14 June
The Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce proudly presents an evening
with a special guest, Mr. Eamon Ryan T.D., Irish Minister for
Communications, Energy &amp;amp; Natural Resources.
Minister Ryan is in Japan to deliver the opening address at the
annual Nikkei/MIC Global ICT Summit and to promote Ireland-Japan
business. He will share his thoughts with the Chamber on the
current state of the Irish Economy, its prospects for growth and
return to competitiveness. Minister Ryan will also outline
Ireland's green economy, the central role of R&amp;amp;D and how
innovation is at the heart of Ireland's growth strategy for the
global marketplace.
The evening will also see the launch of a new IT committee within
the Chamber.
Doors open at 19:00, Speech starts at 19:30
Venue: Hamarikyu Ballroom, The Conrad Hotel (Map)
Fee: IJCC Member: 5,000yen / Non-Member: 6,000yen
 (The fee includes a
light meal and drinks)
Capacity: 50 people (spaces are limited, so please book
early)
Please RSVP to the IJCC Secretariat Ms. Shimada at secretariat@ijcc.jp by Thursday,
10th June.

FILM
Short Shorts Film Festival 2010
Thursday, 10 June - Sunday, 20 June
A short film festival, which introduces emerging short films from
all over the world. As the competition, the Grand Prix will be
eligible to be considered for the short film category of the
Academy Awards&#174; the following year. Also, panel discussions will
take place with some visiting filmmakers from abroad.
Venue: Omotesando Hills Space O (Tokyo), Laforet Museum, Harajuku
(Tokyo) and Brillia Short Shorts Theater (Yokohama)
An Irish film 'Out of the Blue' (Directed by Michael Lavelle /
2008) will be screened.
Screening schedule (International-B Program, 7 films):
14 June 19:20-21:10 at Brillia Short Shorts Theater
16 June 15:30-17:20 at Laforet Museum
18 June 12:50-14:40 at Brillia Short Shorts Theater
For more details:
Committee for Short Shorts
03-5474-8844 / look@shortshorts.org
www.shortshorts.org

EXHIBITION
June Butler ExhibitionTuesday 8 - Friday 18
June
June Butler's second exhibition at Gallery Saoh. June was born in
Dublin, Ireland. She has participated in several joint and solo
exhibitions in Dublin and Japan and her work is held in a number of
private collections.
Venue: Gallery Saoh (Chuo-ku, Tokyo)
For details please contact the gallery: TEL/FAX　03-3271-6693 E-mail
saoh@jpin.co.jp
http://www.jpin.co.jp/saoh

THEATRE
Bungakuza &quot;Mugi no Ho no Yureru Hosakini&quot; (At the ear tip of the
swinging barley)
Monday 31 May - Wednesday 9 June
Newly written by Oryza Hirata, inspired by Ozu, a story of a
university professor of Yeats and his daughter.
Venue: Kinokuniya Southern Theatre (Tokyo)
For enquiries and ticket information:
http://www.bungakuza.com/mugi/

Bungakuza TEL 0120-481034

MUSIC
Stiff Little Fingers LiveMonday 24 - Friday 28
May
Organised by VINYL JAPAN
Venue:
Tokyo shows (24, 25, 26 May / doors open 18:00 start 18:30) at
Takadanobaba AREA
Osaka show (28 May / doors open 18:00 start 19:00) at OSAKA KING
KOBRA
For enquiries: VINYL JAPAN Pt.2　TEL 03-5330-9141
http://www2.odn.ne.jp/vinyl-japan/NEWS/news_live2.html


SPORTS
Irish Sports DaySunday 18 April
The Japan GAA officially kicks off its season with the Irish Sports
Day, being held at The YCAC in Yokohama. A great day of fun sports
for all the family. With Gaelic football tournaments, the long puck
challenge, soccer games and kids sports and activities, this is a
day out not to be missed.
Organised by: Japan GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association)
Please contact Mr. Andrew Nolan at japangaa@gmail.com if you'd like to
participate.

LECTURE
Waseda University Extension Centre: Lecture Series on
Ireland
Saturday 17 April - Saturday 26 June
(Every Saturday except 1 May; 13:00-14:30; 10 lectures)
Lectures on Irish history, language, music, cinema, society,
theatre and literature. There will also be lectures by the Embassy
of Ireland and Tourism Ireland. (Lectures will be in
Japanese)
Venue: Waseda University, Waseda Campus
Fee: 10,000yen
Website: http://www.ex-waseda.jp/
For enquiries and application, please contact Waseda University
Extension Centre:
TEL 03-3208-2248
E-mail wuext@list.waseda.jp


MUSIC &amp;amp; DANCE
Celtic C&#233;il&#237; 2010Saturday, 17 April
Irish &amp;amp; Celtic music concert and Irish dance experience.
Organised by Irish Dance Circle CLARE
Venue: Nakahara Shiminkan (Kawasaki)
Enquiries: clare_info@yahoogroups.jp

http://cc2010.exblog.jp/

LECTURE
IJCC Guest Speaker’s Evening with Mr. Jason Lucas, Diageo
JapanWednesday, 31 March
Diageo Japan sells globally renowned alcoholic drinks including
Guinness. In this event, Mr. Lucas (Commercial Director of Diageo
Japan) will share an overview of Diageo, their brands as well as
their marketing strategy. (Presentation will be held in English
only)
Organised by Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce
Time: Doors open at 18:30, presentation between 19:00 -
19:45
Venue: Embassy of Ireland, 4F &quot;Hearn Room&quot;
Admission: IJCC Member/Free of Charge, Non-Member/2,000yen per
person
For more details, please see: http://www.ijcc.jp/events/45/

Reservation and enquiries: secretariat@ijcc.jp

PARADE
2010 St Patrick's Day Parades in JapanSaturday 6
March
Nagoya　http://www.stpatricksnagoya.com/

Kumamoto　http://www.kumamotoparade.com/

Saturday 13 March
Ise　http://sites.google.com/site/isepaddysdayparade/home

Okinawa -　Please call 098-937-9345 for details
Sunday 14 March
Tokyo　http://www.inj.or.jp/
Kyoto　http://www.inj-kansai.com/
Matsue　http://www.sanin-japan-ireland.org/

Saturday 20 March
Yokohama　http://inj-yokohama.com/
Saturday 27 March
Tsukuba　http://stptsfes.tsukuba.ch/

MUSIC
THE WILD ROVERMonday 22 March
An annual Irish music event to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Tokyo
– Irish punk, traditional folk, stomp, swing, etc.
Venue: club asia/vuenos/P/NEO (Shibuya, Tokyo)
Enquiries:　Hot Stuff Promotion TEL 03-5720-9999
http://thewildrover.info/


SYMPOSIUM
St. Patrick’s Day SymposiumSunday 21 March,
14:00～20:00
Members and non-members of Japan Ireland Society together celebrate
the St. Patrick’s Day through workshop, music and dance.
Venue: Roundstone Irish Pub &amp;amp; Restaurant (Tennozu Isle,
Tokyo)
http://japan-ireland.karugo.com/


MUSIC
Piano Recital by Cathal BreslinSaturday 20
March
Irish pianist, Cathal Breslin, will visit Tokyo for a solo recital
performing works by Chopin and Irish born inventor of the Nocturne,
John Field.
Doors open: 15:30 Start: 16:00
Venue: Ohtaki Hall (Setagaya-ku, Tokyo)
Reservations only for a limited number os seats. Please email
stating your name and telephone number to Takashima Music Office:
info@t-artists.com

MUSIC
The Mother of all Paddy's NightsThursday 18 March,
17:00～22:30
An evening of rockin' folk'n'trad Irish music and world dance,
featuring Japan’s hottest Irish music act Johnsons Motorcar and
many VERY SPECIAL guests!
Organised by Rockstar Circus+Johnsons Motorcar
Venue: Shimokitazawa GARDEN
Enquiries: RockstarCircus@gmail.com

www.johnsonsmotorcar.com


PARTY
Paddys Day SapporoWednesday, 17 March, 19:30 -
24:00
T&#225; s&#233; an L&#225; le Ph&#225;idraigh agus Beidh craic agus ceol sna teach an
teorna.
Sapporo Celebrates St Patrick's day with a gathering of the Irish
in one of the liveliest spots in town.
Goes without saying it will be an entertaining night with plenty of
friendly faces and a few surprises.
Not to mention good food and drink.
Come along and get to know a little about the Emerald Isle.
Wear Green !
Venue: Pete's Bar (Sapporo) http://petesbar.jp/
For information, please contact INJ Sapporo at injsapporo@gmail.com

PARTY
Japan GAA Celebrates St. Patrick's DaySunday 14th
March
Come celebrate the day of Irish 'craic' with the Japan GAA. Please
contact Mr. Andrew Nolan at japangaa@gmail.com if you'd like to
participate.


SEMINAR
Tourism Ireland: Ireland Festival 2010Sunday 14
March, 11：00～18：00
Please drop by to see our travel fair at Omotesando Hills.
Venue: Omotesando Hills B3F Space ‘O’
For Details: www.discoverireland.jp


MUSIC &amp;amp; DANCE
The Emerald BallSaturday 13 March
A wonderful evening of excellent food &amp;amp; drink, great company,
superior entertainment, and of course, the Irish &quot;craic&quot;. The
Emerald Ball is a fund-raising event to promote arts, education,
cultural awareness and community development.
Organised by The Ireland Fund of Japan
Venue: The Westin Hotel, Tokyo
www.emeraldballtokyo.com


SEMINAR
Green Ireland: Toward Carbon Neutral EnergyFriday 12
March, 9:30 - 13:00
Ireland - the Emerald Isle, is recognised in Japan and around the
world for its unbridled natural resources. The power of its seas
and winds is legendary.
Now as one of the world's innovators of cutting-edge
renewable energy technology, Ireland is moving to the forefront of
the fight against climate change and leading the development of
smart, sustainable, post-carbon solutions.
During the Ireland Festival 2010, the Embassy of Ireland, Tokyo, in
conjunction with IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland will host a
seminar with leading Irish companies to showcase these developments
to Japanese companies, research institutes, policy makers and
anyone interested in learning more about what Ireland and Japan can
achieve in this field.
Venue: Hall D7, Tokyo International Forum
Simultaneous interpretation will be available for the duration of
the Forum.
If you are interested in participating in this unique opportunity,
please send an email to tokyoembassy@dfa.ie with your
name, job title, affiliation and telephone number by Friday, 26th
February.


DANCE
Irish Dance Workshops by Ailis O’DowdaSunday 7 March
&amp;amp; Saturday 13 March
Irish Dance Workshops in Tokyo for all ages and levels by visiting
Professional Irish Dancer Ailis O'Dowda.
Venue: Fab Academy, Roppongi (7 Mar),　Gate City Osaki (13
Mar)
www.ailisodowda.com


MUSIC
The Undertones Live -IRELAND / IRISH NIGHT-Saturday
6 March - Sunday 7 March
The legendary Irish punk band, the Undertones will play in Tokyo
for the first time.
Organised by VINYL JAPAN
Venue: ANTIKNOCK, Shinjuku (6 Mar), AREA, Takadanobaba(7 Mar)
Doors open: 18:00 / Start: 19:00
For enquiries: VINYL JAPAN Pt.2　TEL 03-5330-9141
http://www2.odn.ne.jp/vinyl-japan/


NETWORKING EVENT
IJCC &amp;amp; NCCJ Joint Networking EventWednesday 3
March, 19:00-21:30
A joint networking event for IJCC and NCCJ members, their guests
and friends of the countries.
Organised by Japan Chamber of Commerce &amp;amp; The Netherlands
Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Venue: Embassy of Ireland Residence
Fee: 4,000yen/Member, 6,000yen/ non-Member (price includes a light
meal and drinks)
If you would like to participate, please contact the IJCC
Secretariat to sign up and arrange an advance payment to the
designated bank account by Friday 26 February.
Contact: secretariat@ijcc.jp
For more details please see: http://www.ijcc.jp/events/46/


MUSIC
'Let's Play the Harp!'- Session of Historical Harp &amp;amp; Non-Pedal
HarpSunday, 28 February, 14:00～21:00
Non-pedal harp session (Irish harp, Lever harp, historical harp
etc.) for all levels. Also there will be lecture concerts by Mr
Isao Moriyasu (Irish music) and Ms Marie Nishiyama (historical
harp).
Organised by Historical &amp;amp; Non-Pedal-Harp-Section of
Japan Harp Association
Venue: Rehearsal-Room of Hamarikyu Asahi Hall
(3 min from Tsukiji Shijo station, Oedo Line)
Admission: Members of Japan Harp Association 2,000 yen /
Non-members 2,500 yen
For application and enquiries, please e-mail lever-harp@shonan-sound.net
or FAX 03-3448-9849, stating your name and telephone number or
email address. If you would like to join the session, please also
state your instrument, repertoire and profile.

2009

MUSICAL
The Pirate QueenSaturday 28 November - Friday 25
December (Tokyo)
Friday 1 - Monday 11 January 2010 (Osaka)
Musical based on the life of Gr&#225;inne O'Malley from the producers of
Riverdance. Featuring Japanese musical stars Chizu Hosaka, Yuichiro
Yamaguchi and Mayo Suzukaze, and former Riverdancer Taka
Hayashi.
Venues: the Imperial Theatre (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo), Umeda Arts
Theatre (Osaka-shi, Osaka)
For details and tickets, please see TOHO's website:
http://www.tohostage.com/piratequeen/index.html


THEATRE
The Seafarer
18 - 19 December at Ryutopia Hall, Niigata
22 - 23 December at Meitetsu Hall, Nagoya
A black comedy set in Dublin on Christmas Eve, written by Conor
McPherson, one of the leading figures in the Irish theatrical
world.
Enquiries: 025-224-5521 (Niigata) / 052-331-9966 (Nagoya)


DANCE/MUSIC
The Rag&#250;s Show
Friday 20 November - Saturday 19 December
Lively traditional Irish dance show with performers from the West
of Ireland
Shows will take place in Tokyo, Yamaguchi, Hiroshima, Okayama,
Osaka, Kyoto, Wakayama, Saitama, Aichi, Nagano and Kanagawa.
For details and tickets, please see below website:

http://eplus.jp/sys/web/theatrix/special/20090619_ragus/index.html


LECTURE
Studies on Fairies
Saturday 12 December, 15:30-17:30
Lecture on the meanings of fairies in the modern world by Kimie
Imura, honorary director of Utsunomiya Fairy Museum.
Details and enquiries: Asahi Culture Centre, Shinjuku
TEL 03-3344-1947 http://www.asahiculture.com


CONCERT
Celtic Christmas 2009
Saturday, 12 December, 17:00
This year's Celtic Christmas (10th Anniversary) concert features
Altan, traditional Irish music band famous worldwide, An&#250;na, a
cappella choir that performs medieval Irish music, and Catriona
&amp;amp; Chris, harp &amp;amp; fiddle duo from Scotland.
Venue: Sumida Triphony Hall (Sumida-ku, Tokyo)
For details &amp;amp; tickets, please contact: Plankton Co., Ltd. TEL
03-3498-2881 (Weekdays 11am – 7pm)
www.plankton.co.jp

EXHIBITION, MUSIC, DANCE etc.
Irish Day
Saturday, 12 December
This event is a celebration of Ireland, as well as being a
fundraiser event for Wakaba Orphanage in Aira-cho. On this
day many ALTs, students and colleagues will be helping to run
workshops and there will be information on elements of Irish
culture and some performances of Irish music, singing and
dancing. The last part of the event will be a C&#233;il&#237; which is
an Irish folk dance where everyone will have a chance to
dance!!
Please come and enjoy some Irish culture and come wearing something
green.
15:00-17:00 Exhibition and workshops
17:30-20:00 Performances
20:00-21:00 C&#233;il&#237;
Venue: Konan Junior High School, Kagoshima City
Admission free/ Donations accepted for Wakaba Orphanage in
Aira-cho
For more information and enquiry:
Ms Ruth Rowntree (Kagoshima City ALT)
kagokutsu@gmail.com

MUSIC/EXHIBITION/LECTURE etc.
Celtic Festival: 15th Anniversary of the Celtic Society of
Japan
Sunday 6 December - Sunday 13 December
To celebrate the 15th Anniversary, the Celtic Society of Japan is
organising various events on Celtic/Irish culture.
Sunday 6 December: Celtic/Irish Music and Dance performance
Tuesday 8 - Sunday 13 December: Exhibition, Lecture, Symposium and
Workshops
Venue: Across Fukuoka
For details and enquiries:
http://www.celtic.or.jp/

CONCERT
Year 2009 Japan International Volunteer Centre Benefit
Concerts
5 and 12 December
The Japan International Volunteer Centre (JVC) has presented
Benefit Concerts every December since 1989, raising funds to
support their fieldwork and raising awareness of international
cooperation. This year’s concerts feature two soloists from
Ireland: Niamh Griffin (Soprano) and Robin Tritschler
(Tenor).
Osaka Concert Hendel's Messiah:
Saturday 5 December, from 16:00, at Izumi Hall
Tokyo Concert Bach's Christmas Oratorio:
Saturday 12 December, from 15:00, at Hitomi Memorial Hall, Showa
Women’s University
For information &amp;amp; reservation: JVC Concert Office
TEL 03-3836-4108 www.ngo-jvc.net

THEATRE
Parco Presents &quot;The Seafarer&quot;Monday 16 November -
Tuesday 8 December
(Preview: 14-15 November)
First produced at London National Theatre in 2006, &quot;the Seafarer'
has been nominated for many awards. A black comedy set in Dublin on
Christmas Eve, written by Conor McPherson, one of the leading
figures in the Irish theatrical world.
Venue: PARCO Theatre (Shibuya, Tokyo)
* More shows in Osaka, Niigata and Nagoya: please see PARCO's
website for details.
Admission: &#165;7,500 (students &#165;4,000) (Preview &#165;6,500)
Details and enquiries: PARCO Theatre
www.parco-play.com
TEL 03-3477-5858

DINNER
IJCC Seasonal Buffet Dinner 2009Thursday 3
December
A seasonal buffet dinner for the members, their guests and friends
of Ireland to celebrate this special season together!
Venue: MADO LOUNGE, 52nd floor of Roppongi Hills (Tokyo City
View)
Admission: 12,000yen per person (price includes a seated buffet
dinner, drinks, entertainment, and a meish raffle)
Details: http://www.ijcc.jp/events/44/

For enquiries, please contact: secretariat@ijcc.jp


CONFERENCE
Japan-Ireland Society: Annual Conference of Irish
Studies
Saturday 28 - Sunday 29 November
Research presentations and Symposium &quot;Imagination at Work: the
Literature and Cultural Heritage of Ireland&quot;.
Venue: Tezukayama University (Nara Pref.)
For details, please visit the Society's website:
http://japan-ireland.karugo.com/jis_conf2009.htm


LECTURE
IJCC Guest Speaker’s Evening with Ms. Mari Christine, UN-HABITAT
Goodwill AmbassadorWednesday 25 November 2009
Ms. Christine is very active in international conferences and
speeches and working as a committee member for several governmental
bodies. In the event, she will talk about how the UN-HABITAT plays
a roll in the world and current situation of AWC as well as how
businesses can contribute to the world.
Organiser: Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce
Venue: Embassy of Ireland, 4F, Hearn Room
Admission: Member/Free of Charge, Non-Member/2,000yen per
person
Details: http://www.ijcc.jp/events/43/

For enquiries, please contact: secretariat@ijcc.jp

CONCERT
Martin Hayes &amp;amp; Dennis Cahill Sapporo Concert
Thursday 19 November, 18:30-
For all Irish Music Lovers living or visiting Hokkaido in
November:
Don’t miss this rare chance to see this world famous duo perform in
Sapporo. Irish Musician of the year Martin Hayes(Fiddle)
accompanied by long time musical partner Dennis Cahill(Guitar) will
play one night only at “The Lutheran Hall”.
They will be supported by the wonderful local fiddle &amp;amp; guitar
duo RINKA.
Venue: The Lutheran Hall (Sapporo, Hokkaido)
Admission: ￥4,000 (Reserved / Pre-assigned Seating)
Website: http://misaok.hp.infoseek.co.jp/martin&amp;amp;dennis/index.html

For enquiries, please contact:
050-3468-4256 (Japanese) / 0123-33-7088 (English)


LECTURE/CONCERT
Attraction of Irish Music - Irish Harp
Monday 16 November, 19:00-20:30
Performance and talks to introduce traditional Irish music, by
Gr&#225;inne Hambly and Mr. &amp;amp; Mrs. Moriyasu ('Paddy &amp;amp;
Bridget').
Details and enquiries: Asahi Culture Centre, Shinjuku
TEL 03-3344-1947 http://www.asahiculture.com


CONCERT
Soka International Harp Festival 2009
October – 15 November
The annual harp festival in Soka City, Saitama Pref., including
competition and concerts.
The main two concerts will be held at Soka City Culture Hall on 14
and 15 November: admission is &#165;1,000 (students &#165;500). For details
and reservation, please contact Soka City Cultural Association at
048-931-9325.

LECTURE/SYMPOSIUM
Public Lecture and Symposium of Lafcadio Hearn
Saturday 7 November, 14:00-17:00
Lecture and symposium to discuss Hearn's life in Europe and
US.
Venue: Kusunoki Kaikan Reception Room, Kumamoto University
(Kumamoto Pref.)
Admission free
For more information: www.lib.kumamoto-u.ac.jp or
k-narita@jimu.kumamoto-u.ac.jp


GOLF
Ireland Japan Golf Challenge 2009 for the Ambassador’s
Cup
Saturday, 7 November 2009
One of the annual highlights of the Ireland Japan Chamber of
Commerce programmes is the Chamber’s golf tournament. The 4th Golf
Challenge will go from strength to strength with Japanese and Irish
golf fans and their friends competing in a relaxing and informal
atmosphere for the Ambassador’s Cup and a range of exciting
prizes.
Organiser: Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce
Venue: Hon Chiba Country Club (Chiba City)
Admission: 25,000yen per person (the fee covers green fees, caddies
and buggy, lunch, awards ceremony and a reception afterwards)
Details: http://www.ijcc.jp/events/golf-tournament/

For enquiries, please contact at secretariat@ijcc.jp


LECTURE
Japan-Ireland Society 2009 Open Lecture
SeriesSaturdays 24 &amp;amp; 31 October and 7 November,
13:30-17:00
Public lectures themed on “Dublin, these 100 years” featuring
Joyce, Easter Rising etc.
Venue: Osaka University of Economics (Osaka City)
Fees: 300 yen
Details: http://japan-ireland.karugo.com

Enquiries: Prof. Tadashi Yamamoto (Osaka University of
Economics)
TEL/FAX 06-6328-2431
E-mail:yamamoto@osaka-ue.ac.jp

MUSIC CLASS
Tin Whistle Lesson Seriesfrom Saturday 24 October (3
classes)
Tin whistle lessons by Mari Yasui, learning traditional Irish
melodies.
Details and enquiries: Asahi Culture Centre, Shinjuku
TEL 03-3344-1947 http://www.asahiculture.com


MUSIC CLASS
Irish Harp Lesson Series
from Friday 23 October (3 classes)
Irish harp lessons by Masumi Sakaue, playing as traditional 'Celt
Style'.
Details and enquiries: Asahi Culture Centre, Shinjuku
TEL 03-3344-1947 http://www.asahiculture.com


LECTURE
Theatre and Society in Twentieth-Century Ireland
Wednesday 21 October, 16:20-18:00
Public lecture by Prof. Riana O'Dwyer (National University of
Ireland, Galway)
Venue: Meiji University, Izumi Campus, Bldg. No.1, Room 313
http://www.meiji.ac.jp/cip/english/other/izumi.html


THEATRE
EN Company “A Skull in Connemara”9 – 21
October
Following the success of “Beauty Queen of Leenane” in 2004 and
“Lonesome West” in 2006, EN Company will present the other piece
from the Leenane Trilogy by an Irish playwright Martin McDonagh: “A
Skull in Connemara”. Set in a small town in the West of Ireland,
this is a story of a gravedigger who is faced with the task of
exhuming the bones of his dead wife.
Venue: Stage EN (Taito-ku, Tokyo)
Access: 3-min walk from Tawaramachi station (Metro Ginza
Line)
Admission: &#165;4,800 (students &#165;3,500)
For information &amp;amp; reservation: EN Company
TEL 03-5828-0654 www.en21.co.jp

HORSE RACING
Ireland Trophy Stakes DaySaturday 17 October
at the Tokyo Race Course in Fuchu

FAIR
Study Abroad FairSaturday 17 October,
11:00～17:00
JASSO, Japan Student Services Organisation, will host a study
abroad fair. Dublin City University will have a booth with
alumni.
Venue: Tokyo International Exchange Center (Daiba, Tokyo)
Admission free
Details: http://www.jasso.go.jp/study_a/fair09.html

For enquiries: 03-5520-6141 infohi@jasso.go.jp

CONCERT
Kitajima traditional night Vol.13　KAAZ concert
Friday, 16 October, 7-9pm
The annual concert of traditional Irish music in Kitajima-cho,
Tokushima Pref. This year's concert features KAAZ: Kana Ohtake
(fiddle), Atsushi Yamane (bagpipe) and Kyoko Yamane (piano,
keyboard).
Venue: Kitajima-cho Public Library Sousei Hall (Tokushima
Pref.)
For details &amp;amp; tickets, please contact: TEL 088-698-1100

FILM
4th Sapporo International Short Film Festival and
Market
Wednesday 14 - Sunday 18 October
Irish short films will be screened: &quot;Atlantic&quot; (Conor
Ferguson/2008) and four works from Terry O'Leary.
Venue: Sapporo TOHO Plaza, Theatre KINO (Sapporo, Hokkaido)
Admission: 1,000 yen (advance)/ 1,200 yen (on the day)
For more details: http://sapporoshortfest.jp

CONFERENCE
IASIL Japan 2009 ConferenceSaturday 10 - Sunday 11
October
With a theme of “Echo Chambers: Reverberations in Irish Writing”,
this year's IASIL (International Association for the Study of Irish
Literatures) Japan Conference will take place in Shiga University.
Guest speaker is Prof. Riana O'Dwyer from NUI Galway.
Venue: Shiga University, Hikone Campus (Shiga Pref.)
For more information, please see: http://www.musashino-u.ac.jp/iasil-j/


CONCERT/WORKSHOP
Shamrock FestivalSunday 4 October, 13:00-18:00
CC&#201; (Comhaltas Ceolto&#237;r&#237; &#201;ireann) Japan presents concert and
workshop of traditional Irish music and dance.
Venue: Shinobazu-Dori Fureai-kan (Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo)
Admission: 1,500 yen
For more details, please see: www.comhaltas.jp

MUSIC CLASS
World of Celtic Harp
Wednesday 30 September, 10:30-12:00
Irish harp performance and lesson by Masumi Sakaue.
Details and enquiries: Asahi Culture Centre, Shinjuku
TEL 03-3344-1947 http://www.asahiculture.com


MUSIC
Tin Whistle Lesson Series
From Saturday 25 July
(3 lessons/ 4th Satuday 13:00-14:30)
Tin whistle lessons by Mari Yasui, learning traditional Irish
melodies.
Venue: Asahi Culture Centre, Shinjuku
(Shinjuku Sumitomo Bldg. 4F)
Fees: 8,820yen (tuition) + 1,100yen (materials)
Open only for ACC Members (Membership fee: 5,250yen/ 3years)
Details and enquiries: Asahi Culture Centre
TEL 03－3344－1947
http://www.asahiculture.com


Ballylee Theatre Society &quot;The Abbey at
Ennis&quot;
Saturday, 25 July from 14:00
Venue: Mizumoto Park Open-Air Stage (Katsushika-ku, Tokyo)
Admission Free
A tragic romance set in ancient Ennis, County Clare, West of
Ireland. (Performance in Japanese) First performed in March as a
part of Tsukuba St. Patrick's Festival.
For more details, please visit the Society's website: http://ballylee.tsukuba.ch/

Celtic Summer Festival
Friday, 17 July, 19:15 - 21:00
An evening of Irish/Celtic music and dance, featuring Kana Ohtake
(fiddle), Hiroe Chiba (harp, bodhran, concertina), Tsuyoshi
Kitamura (penny whistle, flute) and Michael Bedlow (mandorin,
vocal).
Venue: Shikoku Gakuin University (Kagawa Pref.), Kyoseikan 2F
Ticket: 1,800 yen with 1 drink (students 1,000 yen without
drink)
For reservation: 0877-62-2111 ext. 416
For information: 090-2896-1895 (Mr. Bedlow)

IJCC Guest Speaker Evening ~Guest Speaker: ADK President
Mr. Naganuma~
Tuesday, 14 July
start at 19:00 (doors open at 18:30)
The Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce (IJCC) will be hosting the
Guest Speaker Evening with Mr. Koichiro Naganuma, the president and
CEO of ASATSU-DK INC. (ADK). Mr. Naganuma will be sharing his
challenging and successful experiences in advertising. The speech
will be followed by Q &amp;amp; A and a casual reception with Mr.
Naganuma. (Speech will be English only)
Venue: Embassy of Ireland Residence
Price: IJCC Member at 4,000yen / Non-Member at 6,000yen
Reservation &amp;amp; payment: please contact the IJCC Secretariat at
secretariat@ijcc.jp by
Friday, 10th of July.
For more details: www.ijcc.jp

Ireland Fair
1 &amp;amp; 2 July, 9:00 - 18:00
Ireland Fair presented by Chiyoda Ward and the Embassy of Ireland,
at the Chiyoda Ward Office. Photo exhibition (Irish landscape) by
Kazuyuki OKajima, Irish goods shop, concert etc.
Venue: Citizens Hall, Chiyoda Ward Office 1F
Admission Free
Concert schedule:
 1 July 12:45-13:15/ 17:00-17:30
 New Crawford Piano Trio and Norah
King
 2 July 12:00-13:00
 Irish dance by Taka Hayashi &amp;amp;
Yasuko Naka
 2 July 17:00-17:45
 Irish melodies by Kenta Matsumi
(viola) &amp;amp; Mikako Matsumi (violin)

A Musical Gift from IrelandMonday, 29
June
Venue: Uchisaiwaicho Hall (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
Admission: 500 yen
* Application closed as the seats fully-booked (updated 22
June)
The Crawford Piano Trio from Ireland will play from the European
and Irish classical repertoire.
Enquiries
Chiyoda City Hall, Culture &amp;amp; Sports Section
ＴＥＬ　03-5211-3628
ＦＡＸ　03-3264-7989
E-mail　bunkasupotsu@city.chiyoda.lg.jp


Japan-Ireland Society Open Lecture Series
&quot;Ireland in the Globalising World&quot;
Saturdays 13, 20 &amp;amp; 27 June
Time: 14:00-17:00
Admission: 500yen
No advance booking required.
Annual lecture series in Tokyo and Osaka. This year's Tokyo session
focuses on contemporary Irish society - politics, economy,
industry, environment and diplomacy.
Venue: Toyo University, Hakusan Campus Bldg.#6
Details: http://japan-ireland.karugo.com/


Attraction of Irish Music: Uilleann Pipes
Thursday 18 June, 19:00 - 20:30
Talk and performance by a prominent Uilleann Pipes player from
Ireland, Mikey Smith, together with traditional Irish musicians
Isao &amp;amp; Masako Moriyasu (Paddy &amp;amp; Bridget).
Venue: Asahi Culture Centre, Shinjuku
(Shinjuku Sumitomo Bldg. 4F)
Fees: ACC Member 3,150yen / Non-member 3,780yen
Details and enquiries: Asahi Culture Centre
TEL 03－3344－1947
http://www.asahiculture.com


IJCC &amp;amp; BLCCJ Business Networking
EventWednesday, 17th June
Time: 19:00 - 22:00
Venue: HSBC Premier Centre Marunouchi branch

(Yusen Bldg 1F, 2-3-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
Access: http://www.hsbc.co.jp/1/2/miscellaneous/map/branch.marunouchi

 3 minutes
walk from the Exit 4B of Tokyo sta., Tokyo Metro
Marunouchi Line and JR Line 1 minute walk from the Exit 7 of
Nijubashimae sta., Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
Fee: IJCC Member 4,000yen / Non-Member 6,000yen
at entrance.
The fee includes meal and free drinks.
Corporate Member can invite guests up to 4 people and Professional
Member
can invite guests up to 2 people with 4,000yen for each.
Capacity: 80 people (including 40 people from BLCCJ)
Please RSVP to IJCC Secretariat Ms. Shimada at secretariat@ijcc.jp by Friday 12th
June.
Presented by: Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce, Belgian-Luxembourg
Chamber of Commerce in Japan　
Sponsored by: HSBC
Supported by: Embassy of Ireland


IRISH WEEK AT THE CSWC9-16 June
Venue: Tokyo Institute of Technology

Ookayama Campus West 9 Bldg.
Admission free.
Celebrating Ireland: A week of literary readings by leading
authors, new Irish short films and exciting traditional Irish music
and dance!
Tue 9 June: Celebrating Irish Dance (18:30-20:00)
Sat 13 June: Celebrating Irish Literature and Theatre
(13:30-19:00)
Mon 15 June: Celebrating Irish Film (18:30-20:00)
Tue 16 June: Celebrating Irish Music (18:30-20:00)
For details and enquiries:
Centre for the Study of World Civilizations,
Tokyo Institute of Technology
TEL 03-5734-3824 FAX 03-5734-3943
http://www.cswc.jp/


EU Film Days 2009
29 May - 20 June
Venue: National Film Centre (Kyobashi, Tokyo)
The EU Film Days is an annual film festival to screen works from
the EU member states, held as part of the EU-Japan Friendship Week
which　is organised to promote people-to-people exchanges between
the EU and Japan.
An award-winning Irish film 'Garage' is to be shown at 3pm
on Thurs. 4 June and at 7pm on Wed. 17
   June.www.eufilmdays.jp


The Swell Season Live in Tokyo
Guest: Liam &#211; Maonla&#237; (Hothouse Flowers)
Wednesday 20 May, doors open 18:30 start 19:00
Venue: Tokyo International Forum Hall C
Following the successful live in January 2009, the Swell Season
(Oscar-winners, Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova of the movie
'Once') is back in Tokyo.
For enquiries &amp;amp; bookings: 03-3498-2881 (Plankton)
http://plankton.co.jp/swell/index.html


Japan GAA Sports DaySunday, 12 April
The annual Sports Day organised by Japan GAA. Gaelic football and
soccer matches, adult and kids Gaelic football clinic, and more.
For details, please see http://www.japangaa.com/

IJCC Speaker Evening with Mr. Tommy
KullbergWednesday, 8th April
The Ireland-Japan Chamber of Commerce (IJCC) will host the first
Speaker Evening in 2009 with Mr. Tommy Kullberg on Wednesday,
8th April at the Embassy of Ireland
Residence.
Mr. Kullberg is the newly-elected chairman of the European Business
Council in Japan (EBC). Mr. Kullberg has been working as a
businessman and diplomat in Japan for some 20 years including the
CEO of IKEA Japan. In the event, he will share his difficult
and successful experiences in Japan with us.
For details and application, please see www.ijcc.jp

St. Patrick's Day Parades in 2009Kumamoto:
Saturday, 7 March www.kumamotoparade.com
Ise: Saturday, 7 March http://isepaddysdayparade.googlepages.com/

Kyoto: Sunday, 8 March www.inj-kansai.com
Matsue: Sunday, 8 March www.sanin-japan-ireland.org

Okinawa: Saturday, 14 March
   www.inj.or.jp
Tokyo: Sunday, 15 March www.inj.or.jp
Nagoya: Saturday, 21 March www.stpatricksnagoya.com

Yokohama: Saturday, 21 March www.inj-yokohama.com
Tsukuba: Saturday, 28 March http://stpatricksdayparade.tsukuba.ch/


St. Patrick’s Day SymposiumSunday, 22
March.
Venue: Roundstone Irish Pub, Tennozu-Isle, Tokyo. Japan-Ireland
Society members present an afternoon of talk, music and fun.
http://japan-ireland.karugo.com/

The 2009 Tokyo Marathon and Half Marathon will take place on Sunday
22nd March 2009. Prospective runners can register to participate
using the link below.

Ireland Festival 2009 in TokyoSunday, 15
March.
Venue: Omotesando Hills, Tokyo.
Performance of Irish music and dance, presentation of tourist
attractions and Irish products, presented by Tourism Ireland.
www.discoverireland.jp

The Coronas Live in Tokyo
Sunday, 15 March (details TBC).
The Coronas have emerged as one of Ireland’s most exciting new
bands. An emphasis on song-writing and an original acoustic sound
has left the band with an ever-growing following around country.
Their debut album Heroes or Ghosts lodged in the Irish Charts for
26 weeks and led to their nomination as Best Irish Pop Act at
Meteors Music Awards in 2008. www.thecoronas.net

The Emerald Ball 2009
Saturday, 14 March.
Venue: Westin Hotel, Ebisu Tokyo.
A gala fund-raising event, in the elegant Westin Hotel Tokyo, over
St Patrick's weekend 2009. www.emeraldballtokyo.com


Japan GAA St Patrick's Day Party
Saturday, 14 March.
For details please email japangaa@gmail.com or www.japangaa.com The annual
sports day will take place this year on 12 April.

Concert: The Swell SeasonWednesday, 14
January. open 6pm start 7pm
Venue: Shibuya duo music exchange
The Swell Season, Oscar-winners, Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova
of the movie 'Once' are performing in Tokyo.
Details: Plankton's website
For enquiries &amp;amp; bookings: 03-3498-2881 (Plankton)

Irish Prime Minister Foreign Policy
AddressThursday, 15 January 2009, 13:30 -
14:30.
The Prime Minister of Ireland, An Taoiseach, Mr Brian Cowen, will
deliver a speech on the subject of ‘Ireland, Europe and Japan –
Partners in the Wider World’ at Keio University. For more details,
please see here

2008

Write an essay and win a trip to Japan! The 2008 Lafcadio
Hearn Essay Contest organised by Matsue City (Shimane
Pref.) is calling for applications from Ireland (closing date 14
December). For details, please see: http://www1.city.matsue.shimane.jp/hearn/eigo.html


Finghin Collins, one of Ireland’s most celebrated
pianists, is the invited soloist with the Nagoya
Philharmonic Orchestra. at Aichi Perfectural Art Theater
Concert Hall on Fri. 19 and 20 Dec. Programme includes the 353rd
ZARATHUSTRA 8 - THE NIGHT WANDERER SONG. For details etc:
   
https://www.nagoya-phil.or.jp/english/concerts/2008/c_353.html


Vermeer and the Delft Style Exhibition will take
place from 2 August – 14 December at the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum.
One of seven pieces to be displayed will be “Woman writing a letter
with her maid” c.1670 which is on loan from the National Gallery of
Ireland from the prized Beit Collection.

Piano Recital by Finghin Collins
Sunday, 14 December, doors open 13:30, start 14:00
Venue: Showa University of Music, Yuri Hall (Kawasaki,
Kanagawa)
(4-min walk from Shin-Yurigaoka Station, Odakyu Line)
Ticket: &#165;2,800
For tickets &amp;amp; details, please contact: paa@tosei-showa-music.ac.jp


Ms Keiko Kikuchi ’World of the Irish
Harp’
Harp concert and talk on the history of Irish harp and the
celebrated Gaelic harper/composer Turlough O'Carolan (1670-1738).
Also there will be a mini-lesson on Irish harp.
Sunday 14 December
Morning session: 10am - 2pm (talk from 10am, concert from
1pm)
Afternoon session: 1pm - 5pm (concert from 1pm, talk from
2.30pm)
Venue: Iki Iki Plaza Ichibancho (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo)
Admission: &#165;6,000 with refreshments
Bookings/enquiries: Japan Celt Harp Association
TEL 050-3009-2743 harp_k@zau.att.ne.jp

Celtic Xmas (5-13 December, around Japan)
featuring Dervish, one of the most famous traditional Irish music
bands, Irish Stepdancers (the Pilatzke brothers) and many more, for
details http://www.plankton.co.jp/xmas08/index.html


Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce jointly presents Insight
Ireland - a lecture series on Irish economy and history at
Temple University in Tokyo (16 Oct/13 Nov/3 Dec).

Performance by the Chamber Orchestra of the Royal Irish
Academy of Music with pianist, John O’ConorMonday, 1
December, doors open 6.30pm start 7pm
Venue: Showa University of Music, TEATRO del GIGLIO SHOWA
(Kawasaki, Kanagawa)
(4-min walk from Shin-Yurigaoka Station, Odakyu Line)
Ticket: S/&#165;1,800, A/&#165;1,500, B/&#165;1,000
For tickets &amp;amp; details, please contact: paa@tosei-showa-music.ac.jp


KANAI Morio and MATSUI Yoko Photograph Exhibition ─ The
Light of
Ireland ─ will take place from 3 to 30 November (12-7p.m.)
at the Kyoto EXILE GALLERY. The two photographers traveled to
Ireland last winter and visited Croagh Patrick, Aran Islands,
Dingle Peninsula, and others. A selection of over 60 in colour and
black and white photographs, from both artists will be on exhibit.
Admission free.
For details: http://www.ne.jp/asahi/matsui/yoko/


Japan-Ireland Society: Annual Conference of Irish
Studies
29-30 November at Osaka University of Economics, Bldg. C 3F. Room
C-31
For the programme and enquiries, please refer to the Society's
website: http://japan-ireland.karugo.com/


‘Garage’ - The award-winning Irish film by Mark
O'Halloran will be screened at the 15th Osaka European Film
Festival on 23 Nov. at 1.30pm in Osaka Recital Hall (see
   http://www.oeff.jp/) and again
   at OEFF in Tokyo, on 29 Nov. at 5.30pm at Cinema Angelica
   in Shibuya (http://www.gojyu.com). The drama set
   in rural Ireland, features comedian Pat Shortt in the leading
   role. Writer Mark O’Halloran will visit Osaka to give a talk at
   the Osaka screening. For details: or http://www.oeff.jp/1722-Garage.html
   .

Kitajima traditional night Vol.12　&quot;Hard to Find&quot;
concert
23 November, from 2pm
Venue: Kitajima Sousei Hall 3F (Tokushima Pref.)
The annual concert of traditional Irish music in Kitajima-cho,
Tokushima Pref. This year's concert
features a band from Hokkaido, Hard To Find.
For details &amp;amp; tickets, please contact: TEL.088-698-1100 /
website

Ireland Working Holiday Seminar by the Japan Association of
Working Holiday Makers (JAWHM)Saturday, 15
November
Venue: JAWHM Tokyo Head Office
Part 1: 13:00-15:00
Ireland Working Holiday Seminar including talk by returnees
Part 2: 15:00-16:00
Talk by Nichiai, a support agent in Ireland
For details and application, please see JAWHM website.

The Soka International Harp Festival 2008 has been
held every November since 1989 and is directed by Professor Josef
Molnar, chairman of the Japan Harp Association. This year, concerts
and competitions will take place from 17 October to 16 November.
For details see: http://soka-bunka.jp/harpfestival/index.html


THE FOREIGN CORRESPONDENTS’CLUB OF JAPAN is organising a
Book Break of Peter McMillan's &quot;One Hundred Poets, One Poem
Each: Translating the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu&quot; on Thursday,
November 6, from 6：30PM to 8:30 PM.
Talk by the Author (English) followed by Q&amp;amp;A session. A dinner
will be served at a cost of 1,850 yen (including tax). Sign up at
the reception desk (3211-3161) or online at http://www.fccj.or.jp.
For details please see: http://www.e-fccj.com/node/3967


The 2008 Tokyo Poetry Festival will take place at
Meiji University from 31 October to 2 November. Irish poet Nuala N&#237;
Chonch&#250;ir will recite some of her work in English and Irish.
* The participation of Ms N&#237; Chonch&#250;ir in the poetry festival has
been cancelled (updated 21 Oct 08)

Open-lecture series on the theme of “Ireland: Land of
Poetry and Sagas”. Organised by the Japan-Ireland Society.
Lectures will take place on 25 October, 1 and 8 November at Osaka
City University Bunka-Kouryu Centre. For details see http://japan-ireland.karugo.com/


The Japan Market Expansion Competition (JMEC) Information
Evening14 October 7:30pm – 9:00pm / 23 October
8:00am – 9:00am / 27 October 7:30pm – 9:00pm
Venue: Temple University Japan Campus, Mita Hall room 503
Admission free/Reservation required
To reserve your spot, please visit: www.jmec.gr.jp or email info@jmec.gr.jp
JMEC is a business training program centered on a competition to
write the best business plan. The program gives participants
the chance to get hands-on experience writing a business plan while
learning about business in Japan.

Art exhibit by Tomoko Igarashi– No End – in MUS&#201;E
F (Omotesando, Tokyo) 20-25 October. Her latest works, inspired by
Irish landscapes and painted with traditional materials of Japanese
paintings, will be exhibited for the first time, for details see
http://www.omotesando-garo.com/museef/MF.html
. Ms Igarashi stayed in Ireland on a working holiday visa for
almost one year from April 2007.

Harp ConcertWednesday 15 Oct. 7-9pm at
Roundstone Irish Pub (Tennozu-Isle, Tokyo)
Ms Keiko Kikuchi played melodies by the celebrated Gaelic
harper/composer Turlough O'Carolan (1670-1738) on lap harp and
Irish harp. For enquiries please call: 03-5796-2848

The Ireland Study Abroad Festival 2008 took place
on 11 Oct. in Osaka and on 13 Oct. in Tokyo. The Festival gives you
an opportunity to talk directly with representatives from Irish
universities, colleges and English language schools – as well as
get a taste of Irish culture. For more details please click
   here.


The IASIL (International Association of Irish Literatures)
Japan Annual Conference took place on 11th and
12th October at the Gakushuin University, Tokyo. Irish
academic and poet, Bernard O’Donoghue, delivered a keynote
speech.

Concert &quot;Celtic Forest&quot; players Takashi Yasui took
place on Saturday 4 October at Tokorozawa Muse, Cube Hall
(Saitama). For tickets &amp;amp; details: http://www.bflat-mp.com

Public Lecture by Prof. Liam P. O'Murchu (senior
lecturer in Modern Irish, University College, Cork) 'The Theme of
Marraige in Irish Literature from the 18th to the 20th
Century.'
30 September, 6-8pm Venue: Hosei University (Ichigaya,Tokyo),
Lecture Room D on Boissonade Tower 19F Liam P. O'Murchu is an
authority on early Irish poetry and the oral tradition in Ireland.
His talk, in English,focused on Brian Merriman's 18th Century
comic masterpiece, The Midnight Court, (Cuirt and Mean Oiche).
Admission free. For enquiries, please email: nao@hosei.ac.jp

Puck Fair Japan Tour The well known Irish band
from Dublin, Puck Fair, visited Japan in September 2008.
1) Concert: KOKIA and Puck Fair: Saturday 27 September at
Roppongi Sweet Basil. (Puck Fair feature on Kokia’s new album
&quot;Fairy Dance～KOKIA meets Ireland～&quot;).
2) Workshop and concert: Sunday 28 September at Irish Pub
Roundstone in Tennozu Isle, Tokyo (Roundstone's 8th Anniversary
event)

Japan Open Singles Handball Tournamenttook
place from 10:00am on 15 September (Monday/National holiday) at the
Tokyo YMCA Wellness Center in Toyocho. This tournament is open to
all those interested in the Gaelic sport of handball. The
tournamenthad ability level divisions from beginner to
expert. Please contact the Japan Wall Handball Association for
details at jwha.info@gmail.com

The Kinder Film Festival Tokyowas screening
the Irish short film “New Boy” during August. There was
alsoan introductory talk by the Director and Producer at
selected showings.
http://www.kinder.co.jp/


Pre-Olympic Games training - the Irish Olympic Athletic
Squad4-18 August in Matsue City, Shimane Pref.


The 29th World Baton Championship took
place 2-10 August in Limerick. Japan was be represented by a team
from Japan National Sportbaton Association, which participates in
the Tokyo St. Patrick’s Day Parade each year.
http://www.worldbaton2008.com/


The International High School Arts Festival took place from
29 July – 2 August at the Ueno Royal Museum. The Festival featured
artworks from young people all over the world, including the
winners of Ireland’s Texaco Children’s Art Competition.
http://www.ihsaf.net/


Exhibition &quot;idir/aida&quot; (= 'betwenn' in Irish and
Japanese) took place in June/July this year in
Saitama, Niigata and Fukuoka.
2008 Ireland Week was held in Izumo City in May/June. This year,
Izumo marked their special link with Ireland by signing the first
Ireland-Japan city Friendship Exchange Agreement ever to be signed,
with Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown. 

Nagoya Ireland Society's Poetry Concert: &quot;Immram&quot;
by Nuala N&#237; Dhomhanill, took place in May. 

Riverdance toured Japan between May and July this
year. 

A MihoOhtsubo
Exhibition&quot;Unasaka&quot; took place at the Kami City Art Museum in
May/June. The Exhibition was inspired by Irish poet, Nuala N&#237;
Dhomhnaill.


The 2008 EU Film Days featured the acclaimed Irish
movie, &quot;The Wind That Shakes the Barley&quot;.

An Irish Harp Concert by Siobh&#225;n Armstrong took
place in April in Kyoto.

A photo exhibition&quot;The Light and Wind of
Dingle&quot;, by Kazuyuki Okajima, took
place between April and August.

The annual Japan - Ireland Society &quot;St. Patrick's Day
Conference&quot; took place at the Roundstong Irish Pub and
Restaurant, Tennozu Isle in March.

Tokyo Irish Music Festival 2008/03/16 Omotesando
Hills (Tokyo) B3 F : Space O Post-Parade Irish music fest featuring
live acts such as U2 cover band from Ireland ‘Vertigo', Irish
traditional music group ‘Whirlpool's End' and many others.

Irish Literature Society of Japan: Annual Meeting in
2008 2008/03/15 Seiryou Kaikan (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo) Annual
meeting of the Irish Literature Society of Japan. Anyone who is
interested in Irish literature is welcome to come along.

Talk by Bon Koizumi “Yakumo Koizumi and Ireland”
2008/03/15 - 2008/03/16 Kyoto Bon Koizumi, the Great-grandchild of
Yakumo Koizumi (Lafcadio Hearn), talks about Yakumo and
Ireland.

Ireland Fund of Japan: Emerald Ball 2008
2008/03/14
The Westin Tokyo, Ebisu
A black tie charity gala event in the elegant Ebisu Westin Hotel in
Tokyo.

Stars of Ireland
2008/03/14 - 2008/03/16
Spiral Garden (Omotesando, Tokyo) Introducing Ireland's astronomy
as well as its beautiful scenery and culture, in a unique
planetarium setting.

St. Patrick’s Day Parades
2008/03/08 - 2008/03/22
around Japan
Celebrating St. Patrick's Day (17th March), Ireland's
national day, parades are held around Japan!

Japan GAA Sports Day
2008/03/08
Yokohama Country &amp;amp; Athletic Club
Gaelic football, soccer tournament, kids' activities, and more! All
are welcome to participate. 

IJCC Informal Irish Business Networking Evening
2008/02/07
Le Dragon Blue, Atago Green Hills Plaza, Tokyo
The Ireland-Japan Chamber of Commerce (formally the Japan-Ireland
Economic Association) will host its second informal networking
evening on Thursday 7th February in &quot;Le Dragon Bleu&quot;, Atago Green
Hills Plaza (http://www.soho-s.co.jp/english/dragon/index_fs.html)
This event is an opportunity for IJCC members and anyone interested
in Japan-Irish business to meet each other in a relaxed atmosphere
over drinks and food.

Poetry Reading and Talk by Thomas McCarthy
2008/01/23
Aichi Shukutoku University (ASU), Nagoya Cork-based Irish poet and
novelist Thomas McCarthy will talk about Ireland and its
literatures and its society in a talk entitled: ‘ Ireland, a
vectored and unfinished political and cultural space, from a
literary, cultural or political angle'.

Taka Hayashi Irish Dance Academy 1st
Recital
2008/01/13
Koto Civic Cultural Centre Hall(Tokyo)
Former Riverdancer Taka Hayashi presents his first dance recital of
his own Irish dance academy with guest dancing team RINcool
produced by himself.

Gaelic Handball Pro Exhibition and Novice
Tournament/Clinic
2008/01/12 - 2008/01/14
Gold’s Gym (Yokohama) &amp;amp; Tokyo YMCA
The 10 time Irish Senior Singles champion Eoin Kennedy will play
top American pro Emmett Peixoto. The main exhibition on January 14
will be followed by a reception and buffet dinner party at Hotel
East 21 in Toyocho.

2007

Celtic Xmas 2007
2007/12/11 - 2007/12/18
Nagasaki/ Arkas Sesebo, Tokyo/Sumida Triphony, Kanagawa/Yokosuka
Arts Theatre
The annual Irish music festival, this year features Anuna,
the sacred voice symphony from the Middle Ages and the young &amp;amp;
exciting Tread, with Chieftains' harpist Triona Marshal and
dancers Jon&amp;amp; Nathan Pilatzke and Cara Butler.

Japanese Poetry reading with Irish Music Kanack
Hall, Yokohama
2007/12/08
Kanack Hall (Yokohama)
Japan's foremost poet Shuntaro Tanikawa will read poetry on the
theme of &quot;Thank You ,&quot; accompanied by music of Ireland.

Irish Network Japan Christmas Party
2007/12/08
Duffy’s Irish pub (Ginza, Tokyo)
Irish Network Japan will be hosting the annual Christmas Party on
December 8th. With Music, DJ, dancing, raffles, prizes,
this party will be the final event of the INJ's celebrations of the
50th anniversary of Ireland-Japan Diplomatic
Relations.

The Beauty Queen of Leenane
2007/12/07 - 2008/01/06
Parco Theatre (Tokyo) and Theatre Drama City (Osaka)
Martin McDonagh's maiden play and magnum opus performed by two
leading ladies of Japanese theatre: Shinobu Otake and Kayoko
Shiraishi.

“Irish Christmas” at the Former Ehrismann
Residence
2007/12/01 - 2007/12/25
Ehrismann Residence, Yamate, Yokohama
As a part of the annual &quot;World Christmas 2007&quot; at Western-style
residences in Yamate, The former Ehrismann Residence will put up
Christmas decorations in Irish style and introduce Irish culture,
to mark the 50th Anniversary of Ireland-Japan Diplomatic
Relations.

UNIFEM TOKYO 11th Charity Concert / Keiko Kikuchi
&amp;amp; Saori Kikuchi Harp Concert (Metal strung Harp, Lap Harp,
Irish Harp &amp;amp; Grand Harp)
2007/11/17 14:00-
Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum Main Hall, Meguro
Harp concert by Ms Keiko Kikuchi and her daughter Saori. Ms Keiko
Kikuchi is a harpist and harp researcher. Ms Saori Kikuchi also a
harpist, teaches harp in France.

Japan-Ireland Society: Annual Conference of Irish
Studies
2007/11/17 - 2007/11/18
Gakushuin University, North Bldg. No.2, 10 F. Conference Room
Japan-Ireland Society Annual Conference

Soka International Harp Festival 2007
2007/11/14 - 2007/11/18
Soka Culture Hall Harp concerts and competition (professional
division)

Poetry reading by Micheal O’Siadhail
2007/11/09
Waseda University, Tokyo Micheal O'Siadhail, modern Irish city
poet, reads his poems with Japanese translations. There will also
be a lecture on modern Irish poets.

Gulliver Fantasy (Kannonzaki Festa)
2007/11/03 10:00-15:00
Kannonzaki Park, Yokosuka
2007 marks the 50th Anniversary of Ireland-Japan
Diplomatic Relations as well as the 300th Anniversary of
Gulliver's landing at Kannonzaki, Yokosuka. To celebrate this,
Gulliver Festival will be held, featuring live music and Irish
dance.

A special lecture by Ms Evelyn Conlon (writer):
&quot;Lies and Truth: How Fiction Tells Them&quot;
2007/11/01
Waseda University, Toyama Campus (Tokyo)

A special Lecture by Prof. Luke Gibbons on James
Joyce’s ‘The Dead’
2007/10/31
Hiyoshi Campus, Keio University (Kanagawa)
A special lecture by Luke Gibbons, University of Notre Dame, who
will speak on James Joyce's ‘The Dead' with special reference to
John Huston's film (1987).

A MUSICAL GIFT FROM IRELAND
2007/10/30 18:00-
Cascade Hall, Tokyo
A classical concert in Tokyo by the Crawford Young Musicians (Piano
Trio), during their 2007 Japan Tour (more details to be
announced).

Idir/aida
2007/10/30 - 2007/11/04
Gallery Artislong, Sanjo Horikawa, Kyoto
An exhibition of contemporary prints by three Irish and two
Japanese artists, commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations
between our two countries.

Poetry Reading and Lecture by Joseph Woods, Director
of Poetry Ireland
2007/10/30
Gakushuin University, Tokyo
Poetry reading and lecture by Joseph Woods, Director of Poetry
Ireland /Eigse Eireann (www.poetryireland.ie), to launch ‘ Our
Shared Japan' , a poetry anthology marking the 50th
Anniversary of Ireland-Japan Diplomatic Relations.

24th International Conference of IASIL
JAPAN
2007/10/27 - 2007/10/28
Kobe Shinwa Women’s University　
Annual international conference of the International Association
for the Study of Irish Literatures, Japan Branch.

Ireland Study Abroad Festival 2007
2007/10/13
Hollywood Hall, Hollywood Plaza 5F, Roppongi Hills, Tokyo.
The Irish Study Abroad Festival 2007 gives you a great opportunity
to talk directly with representatives from Irish universities,
colleges and English language schools- as well we get a taste of
Irish culture!

“Ireland in Japan” Lectures on Ireland
2007/10/12 - 2007/12/17
Asahi Culture Centre, Shinjuku
Asahi Culture Centre is organizing four lectures on Irish culture
to mark the 50th anniversary of Ireland-Japan diplomatic relations
this year: 1) Modern Irish Poetry, 2) Irish for Beginners, 3)
Ireland on Film, and 4) Legends of Ireland.

Drama “ASOBI HANBUN” by Shigeki NAKANO +
Frankens
2007/09/20 - 2007/09/24
AKASAKA RED/THEATER(Tokyo)
&quot;ASOBI HANBUN&quot; is based on &quot;The Playboy of the Western
World&quot; by John Millington Synge and directed by Shigeki
NAKANO.

Celtic music, Shanachie Concert. Kitajima
Traditional Night Vol.11
2007/09/15 18:30-
Kitajima-cho Sosei Hall, Tokushima
Shanachie is a female musical group which plays the traditional
folk music of Norway, Sweden, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

JAPAN-IRELAND FRENDSHIP in MATSUE - Symposium &amp;amp;
Workshop
2007/09/08 - 2007/09/09
Matsue Citizen's Activity Center, Shimane
- Deepen the relationships among Irish friendship associations in
Japan and discuss possible activities in the future
- Share latest information on Ireland and Northern Ireland through
Lectures, Excursion and Workshop

Weightless Days – Dance, Graphic Art and Sound Art
Performance
2007/09/01 14:00, 20:00
Black chamber(Kitakagaya, Osaka)
Mixed Media performance by WDOP (Weightless Days Osaka Project)
premiered last year in Paris. Soundtrack by Dennis McNulty from
Dublin.

11th IAAF World Championships in Athletics (Osaka
2007)
2007/08/25 - 2007/09/02
Nagai Stadium, Osaka
14 Irish athletes will participate in the World Championships in
Athletics in Osaka. They are on a training camp in Matsue from 14
to 23 August.

Japan-Ireland Theatrical Exchange
2007/08/11 14:00-,
Kuwana-shi Daiyamada Community Plaza Bunka Hall, Mie
Drama performances by Group Sugao (Japan), Drumlin Players
(Ireland), Group Grwonse (Korea)

Irish Dresden Exhibition
2007/08/09 - 2007/09/18
World Folk Doll Museum in Suzaka, Nagano ( Closed on Wed)
Irish Dresden was founded in Ireland by a German artisan family
after World War II. The delicate porcelain doll figures demonstrate
unique skills and craftmanship.

The Ragus Show
2007/07/12 - 2007/08/05
Tokyo, Chiba, Saitama and Kanagawa
Lively traditional Irish dance show with performers from the West
of Ireland

~Jazz From The Shamrock Shore~ “The Tanabata Star
Festival”
2007/07/07 18:00-
Osaka River Side Hotel Enjoy delicious Irish food and live music --
Irish folk tradition fused with jazz.4. 5,500 yen entry (Music
&amp;amp; 1 Drink – Dinner charge not included)Doors open: 6 p.m.; 1st
set: 7 p.m.; 2nd set: 8:30 p.m. For more information: http://www.osaka-riverside-hotel.co.jp/
(Japanese)

Art from the Rucksack 3～Japan/Ireland Artists
Exchange
2007/07/07 - 2007/07/22 11:00-20:00
CAP House in Kobe (Closed on Tuesday)
The artists will come over to Japan with art materials and art
works in their rucksack. The exhibition produced and held in
partner's country should be an integrated art presentation with
environment, materials, and objects of both countries.

mcmillanart New Exhibition: Kiyoshi
Nakagami
2007/06/23 - 2007/07/07
mcmillanart 11:00-19:00 (Closed on Monday/ Closed at 17:00 on 7
July)
mcmillanart in conjunction with hino gallery hold an exhibition of
the work of Kiyoshi Nakagami. A series of prints commissioned
by the Embassy of Ireland to commemorate the 50th anniversary of
Ireland-Japan relations will be also shown.
For details, please see http://mcmillanart.com

Contact: mcmillanart Tel: 0422-21-8007 Email:
   mcmillanartoffice@parkcity.ne.jp


John O’Conor concert
2007/06/17 15:00-
Yuri Hall, Showa University of Music, Kawasaki City, Kanagawa
The Irish pianist John O'Conor has earned a worldwide reputation as
a masterful interpreter of the Classic and Early Romantic piano
repertoires.
Onthis visit to Japan, Mr O’Conor will perform Beethoven Six
Bagatelles, Op.26,Beethoven Sonata in C-sharp minor, Op.27-2
“Moonlight” and SchubertSonata in C-minor, D.958


Business Dinner with EU Commissioner Charlie McCreevy
2007/06/14 18:30-
Park Hyatt Hotel, Shinjuku 39F Ballroom
A chance to hear from the architect of the Celtic Tiger economic
success, former Irish Finance Minister and current EU Commissioner
for the Internal Market &amp;amp; Services, Charlie McCreevy

The Chieftains Japan Tour 2007: The Chieftains
Forever
2007/06/01 - 2007/06/12
across Japan
The Chieftains Japan Tour 2007: The Chieftains Forever The
celebrated Irish traditional music act, The Chieftains, return to
Japan this year for a tour to celebrate the 50th
anniversary of Ireland-Japan relations.

2007 Ireland Week
2007/06/01 - 2007/07/01
Izumo City, Shimane
The Irish team for The World Cup 2002 held a training camp in
Izumo. Ireland Week, during which the Irish culture and sports are
introduced, has been held ever since.

Mary Therese Keown Exhibition
2007/05/21 - 2007/06/01 11:00-18:30
Niche Gallery Ginza (Closed on Sun)
Irish artist, Mary Theresa Keown's Exhibition in Japan

EU Film Days 2007
2007/05/10 - 2007/05/27
National Film Center
The EU Film Days is held as part of the EU-Japan Friendship Week
which　isorganised annually in May to promote people-to-people
exchanges betweenthe EU and Japan.

Exhibition by Ms June Butler
2007/05/08 - 2007/05/18
Gallery SAOH &amp;amp; TOMOS, Ginza (Closed on Sun.13 May)
An Exhibition of painting by Irish artist June Butler commemoration
50 years of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Japan

Kannonzaki Gulliver Fantasy
2007/05/05 11:00-15:00
Yokosuka Art Museum, Kannonzaki
Annual Gulliver Fantasy Festival. The event features live music and
Irish folk dance, as well as traditional Japanese music and
dance. 

Drawing East
2007/04/22 - 2007/04/28
Gallery SAOH &amp;amp; TOMOS, Ginza
Drawing East is a group of 5 European artists who have been
exhibiting together regularly since 1998 in Japan and Britain. They
have all been drawn to the Japanese arts and have been working in
their chosen fields of sumi, woodcut printing and pottery for many
years. The media and aesthetic still excite them, confirming their
initial impulses to learn Eastern art forms. As Westerners, they
have their own sensibilities and their artwork also reflects their
home cultures. While drawing on the stimulation of living in the
East, they create their own artistic visions.

Irish Dancing Workshop in Osaka
2007/03/31 Shin Osaka (detail will be informed through
e-mail)
Irish Dancing Workshop in Osaka. Anybody can join this
workshop.

Druid Theatre
2007/03/22 - 2007/03/24
Shinjuku Park Tower Hall
Irish Theatre Comes to Japan

Emerald Ball Tokyo 2007
2007/03/17
Westin Hotel, Ebisu Garden Place, Tokyo
This gala evening showcases the best of Irish hospitality with
Irish music, food and entertainment. We are expecting up to 350
guests at the Ball this year and would be delighted if you could
come along to offer your support and participation.

Japan GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) Irish Sports
Day
2007/03/17 10:00 - 17:30
Yokohama Country and Athletic Club (YCAC)
Kick off St. Patrick's Day weekend at the annual Japan GAA Irish
Sports Day.

Poetry competition for high school
students
2007/03/01 - 2007/04/25
Deadline for entries: 25 April
Poetry competition for high school students A chance to win a trip
to Ireland! To mark the Ireland in Japan year, high school students
are asked to compose a poem in Japanese on the subject of
‘friendship'. There are lots of other prizes and the first 50
entries will receive our anniversary mascot, Shamrock-chan.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 11 Aug 2010 07:51:27 UTC</pubDate>
		
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				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Schools Project Corner]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83912</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Welcome to the Schools Project Corner!


We hope that this section of our site helps you to learn more about
Ireland! Click on the linksbelow to find out about various
aspects of Ireland.

Also, we have an exciting interactive resource - Kids'
Ireland - in which you can find a wealth of information on
Ireland andquizzes for students and their
teachers/parents.




]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 10 Aug 2010 07:51:34 UTC</pubDate>
		
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				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Ireland in Brief]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83913</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
The attached booklet, entitled Ireland in Brief, provides a general
overview of Ireland's political, economic and cultural life.
While it is not possible to include every aspect of life in Ireland
in this short publication, we hope that you will discover a little
about Ireland and its people.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 10 Aug 2010 07:33:14 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Dublin: UNESCO City of Literature]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83634</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
UNESCO City of Literature – A recognition of Dublin and an
opportunity for increased cultural tourism


Great tribute is due to generations of gifted Irish writers -
Hanafin


“The city of Dublin being awarded the prestigious UNESCO City of
Literature is a great recognition of the vast literary wealth for
which we are renowned and will be a welcome boost for cultural
tourism in the capital city in the coming years” said Mary Hanafin
T.D., Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport on 26th July
2010.
Dublin becomes the world’s fourth UNESCO City of Literature, part
of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network which was launched in 2004.
This award is a permanent designation and has been led by the city
library service of Dublin City Council.
Minister Hanafin was speaking at the announcement by Dublin’s Lord
Mayor Gerry Breen at the Grand Canal Theatre, Dublin. “Dublin has
been awarded this accolade because of the rich historical literary
past of the city, the vibrant contemporary literature, the variety
of festivals and attractions available and because it is the
birthplace and home of literary greats.
Names such as Swift, O’Casey, Wilde, Shaw, Behan, Beckett and Joyce
are synonymous with Dublin and there are reminders of their great
literary works throughout the city – which captures both scholars
and tourist imaginations when they visit the city.
Dublin’s literary tradition continues to flourish with current
writers achieving great acclaim internationally – including Colm
Tob&#237;n, Sebastian Barry, Anne Enright, Roddy Doyle, John Banville to
name just a few. Novelists including Meave Binchy, Patricia
Scanlan, Marian Keyes, John Boyne, Joseph O’Connor, along with
contemporary Irish poet Thomas Kinsella and playwright Dermot
Bolger are all native Dubliners.
Each year Dublin welcomes Irish people and visitors alike to
experience all that is good about our famous city – the history,
culture, friendliness of the people and the welcome that we offer.
For literary enthusiasts Dublin has so much to offer including the
National Library of Ireland, which holds the world’s largest
collection of Irish documentary material including books,
manuscripts, newspapers, periodicals, drawings, photographs and
maps.


Dublin City Public Libraries and Irish Collections hold an
extensive range of books relating to Dublin and Ireland which are
regularly added to. The Chester Beatty library is both an art
museum and library, hosting an amazing collection of Islamic
manuscripts, oriental art and some of the earliest texts of the
Bible and other early Christian manuscripts. The Dublin Writers
Museum has displays relating to Irish literature in all its forms
from around the 10th century to the present day are on permanent
show. Exhibits include paintings, manuscripts, letters, rare
editions and mementos of many of Ireland’s famous authors.”
Minister Hanafin said that each year libraries around the globe
participate in choosing the winner of the International IMPAC
Dublin Literary Award, the largest of its kind, which is open to
books written in any language. “More recently Dublin has
participated in the One City: One Book project which encourages
everyone in the city to read the same book in the month of April
each year. The annual Dublin Writers Festival presents the best of
both Irish and international writing through readings, discussion
and insights from the best writers from Ireland and the world,
while the Dublin Book Festival celebrates the best of contemporary
Irish publishing.
As demonstrated last autumn at Farmleigh, the extraordinary profile
and continued excellence of our artistic output is undeniably
beneficial to our country in terms of cultural tourism,
international reputation, esteem and goodwill. It is also important
from the point of view of the economy generally and the revenue it
raises through direct and indirect employment that it
creates.”
Minister Hanafin concluded by saying “Dublin is now part of the
UNESCO Creative Cities Network and there will be numerous
opportunities to showcase all that is happening on the cultural and
literary fronts in the months and years ahead. Being one of only
four cities in the world to achieve the status of UNESCO City of
Literature, will enable Dublin to increase its market share of
tourists and attract more people to both the city and the island of
Ireland.”

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 30 Jul 2010 06:42:54 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Contact Us]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=33527</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Directions to the Embassy of Ireland:






From Hanzomon Station, Hanzomon Line (2 mins)


Go out exit 4. Cross the street towards the small grocery shop,
enter the smaller street in front of you and go straight until you
reach the first corner on your left. The Embassy is on the 5th
floor of the opposite building, Ireland House.


From Kojimachi Station, Yurakucho line, (5mins)


When you leave the station Exit.3, turn left and turn into the
first street on your left (after Doutor coffee shop). Walk down
that road until the fourth junction and take a left. Ireland House
is at the end of this street on your left.


Unfortunately, car parking is not available at the
Embassy.


Embassy of Ireland, Ireland House, 2-10-7, Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku,
Tokyo 102-0083
Tel: (03) 3263-0695
Fax: (03) 3265-2275


E-mail: Click here to
contact the Embassy


Public Hours:
Monday to Friday 10:00 hrs to 12:30 hrs &amp;amp; 14:00 hrs to 16:00
hrs
Visa Hours: 14:00 to 16:00, Wednesday only

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jul 2010 05:37:54 UTC</pubDate>
		
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				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Irish Organisations in Japan]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=33970</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
If you're interested in Ireland, there are many organisations in
Japan that you can join to meet other people with the same
interests or to take part in Irish-related events:


TheIreland Japan Chamber of Commerceis
a business networking forum which has been working since 1973 to
promote the interests of Irish business in Japan and Japanese
business in Ireland and to encourage the development of commerce
between the two countries. Members represent a broad cross-section
of businesspersons and entrepreneurs from Ireland, Japan and other
countries. TheIJCC organises a range of networking and
speaker events during the year. (www.ijcc.jp)


The Irish Network Japan promotes cultural exchange
between Ireland and Japan. It organises a number of events
throughout the year, including the St. Patrick's day parades.
(www.inj.or.jp)


The Japan GAA is a non-profit, volunteer
organisation founded in the mid-1990's devoted to promoting
international friendship and understanding, primarily through
participation in Gaelic Sport and Irish Culture in Japan. All are
welcome and the club has male and female members from many
countries. (www.japangaa.com)


The Ireland Fund of Japan is a charitable
organisation with a focus on educational, cultural and community
projects. Among other things, it organises the Emerald Ball around
St. Patrick's Day. (www.irlfunds.org/japan)


The Kanto Celts is a Tokyo-based soccer team. All
nationalities are welcome to join. (http://www.kantocelts.com/)


The Japan-Ireland Society is a group dedicated to
the academic study of Ireland. (http://japan-ireland.karugo.com/)


Comhaltas Ceolt&#243;ir&#237; &#201;ireann Japan is dedicated to
the celebration of Irish music and dance. (www.comhaltas.jp)


There are a range of other organisations throughout Japan which are
open to people interested in Ireland:


Kanazawa Ireland Association
Fax: 076-233-8638


Kumamoto Ireland Society
www.kumamoto-ireland.org


Kyushu Irish &amp;amp;Celtic Network
001@raki.jp

Nagoya Ireland Society
TawaraMichiko205@msn.com


Ryukyu Ireland Friendship Association
ishiryu@ll.u-ryukyu.ac.jp


San'in Japan Ireland Association
www.sanin-japan-ireland.org


Okayama Celtic Societymiyake@c.oka-pu.ac.jp

Hiroshima Ireland Fellowship
k007@art-hiroshima.com

Oita Prefecture Association of Irish Studies
yahata@mc.beppu-u.ac.jp


Irish Asia
www.irishasia.com


The Bernard Shaw Society of Japan

http://www.wakayama-nct.ac.jp/gakka/ippan/ippan-staff/morikawa/GBS_Japan/GBSindex.htm


The Celtic Society of Japanwww.celtic.or.jp

IASIL Japan (International Association for the
Study of Irish Literature)
www.musashino-u.ac.jp/iasil-j/


The Irish Literature Society of Japan
cles2008@gmail.com


The James Joyce Society of Japan
http://www.joycesocietyjapan.com/


Japan Celticists Society
hara@joshibi.ac.jp


Lafcadio Hearn Society
Fax: 0852-25-1920


Samuel Beckett Research Circle of
Japan
http://www.beckettjapan.org


The Yeats Society of Japan
http://www.baika.ac.jp/~tanigawa/Unicorn_Web/top.htm


Ireland Importers Association Ireland
c/o Enterprise Ireland
TEL: 03-3263-0611

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 08:45:28 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Types of Visa]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=33471</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
A comprehensive list of the different visa types that are
available, and the documentation required in respect of each, is
available on the INIS website.


The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the
Department of Foreign Affairs or any Irish Embassy or Consulate may
ask for further documentation at any stage.


For ease of reference, separate links for some of the most common
visa types are set out below.


TRAVELLING TO IRELAND AS A
TOURIST


If you are a Visa-required national and you would like to visit
Ireland for a short period (less than 3 months) you will find
useful guidelines and details of requirements for Visit/Holiday
Visa applications here.


For further information on tourism in Ireland please visit the
website of Tourism Ireland.



TRAVELLING TO IRELAND ON
BUSINESS


Business Meeting
If you are a Visa-required national and coming to Ireland for a
business meeting you will find useful guidelines and details of
requirements for Business Visa applications here


ConferenceIf you are a Visa-required
national and coming to Ireland for a conference you will find
useful guidelines and details of requirements for Conference Visa
applications here


Starting a Business in Ireland
If you are a Non-EEA national and you wish to set up a business in
Ireland, you will require Business Permission from the Department
of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. For more information please
click here


STUDYING IN IRELAND


If you require an entry visa for Ireland and would like to study
here, you will find useful guidelines and details of requirements
for Study Visa appplications here.


WORKING IN IRELAND

If you are a national of a country which is not a member of the
European Economic Area (EEA) and you wish to work in Ireland, you
will require authorisation to do so.

For most types of employment, a non-EEA national requires a Work
Permit. For full information on work permits please visit the
website of the Department of Enterprise,Trade and Employment.

A visa-required national who has been issued with a Work
Permit can apply for an Employment visa through their local
Irish Embassy or Consulate. You will find useful
guidelines and details of requirements for Employment Visa
applications here.


For further information on finding work in Ireland, please visit
the F&#193;S website


WORKING HOLIDAYS

Ireland offers young people from Australia, Canada, Hong
Kong, Japan, 
New Zealand and the Republic of Korea
, the chance to work casually to enable them to
spend an extended holiday in Ireland. For further information
on the Working Holiday schemes, please see the Working Holidays in
Ireland page.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 14 Jul 2010 11:19:47 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Working Holiday Programme]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=35583</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
The Working Holiday Programme is an initiative by the Irish and
Japanese Governments and enablesyoung Japanese people to take
extended holidays in Ireland for up to a year, and to work to
supplement their travel.


The aim of the scheme is to give Japanese people the opportunity to
experiencethe culture, landscape and people of Ireland while
being able to work and study English.


For Information about the Working Holiday Programme in English
please click 
here (PDF 160kb) . For a version in Japanese please click

here (PDF 141kb) .


To downloadthe application form, please click 
here (PDF 204kb) .



Application Closed for 2010.
2011 Application Dates will be posted here when
decided.
The Embassy will accept applications for the FIRST
TRANCHE of the 2010 working holidayauthorisations
from FRIDAY 1st JANUARY 2010 to FRIDAY
29th JANUARY 2010.


The firsttranche is for applicants that wish to travel to
Ireland before 31 AUGUST 2010.

Application periodfor the SECOND
TRANCHEof the 2010 working holiday authorisations
will be from TUESDAY 1st JUNE 2010 to
WEDNESDAY 30th JUNE 2010. This is for applicants
wishing to travel to Ireland after 31 AUGUST 2010.




 

Persons older than 30 years old are not eligible for working
holiday visa.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jul 2010 07:35:55 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA['Get to Know Ireland' Scheme]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=82799</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Get to Know Ireland is a pilot scheme to
support and encourage members of the JET and FAS communities based
here, as well as members of recognised Ireland-related societies in
Japan, to propose ways to introduce aspects of Ireland to Japanese
people in their locality, workplace or school.


The type of project is up to each participant or group. Examples
would be a lecture, a sporting event, an introduction to Irish
cuisine, a dance or music concert or an exhibition which could take
place in a school, community hall or at a commercial venue.
So if you have a similar idea for an event and would like a chance
to make it happen, this is an opportunity not to be missed!


Applications for collaborative events by a group of participants
will also be considered. This competition is open to all
Irish JET and F&#193;S participants and members of recognised
Ireland-related societies around Japan but funding will only be
allocated to a limited number of projects based on the quality of
the proposals and the recommendations of a committee comprising
members of the Ireland-Japan business community. You will find more
details in theapplication form below.


The following are key dates:
1) Deadline for proposals is 17 September 2010 (by
e-mail or postmarked by that date), and 2) it is expected that
projects will have taken place by the end of 2010.


If you are interested in the Get to Know
Ireland project, please let us have your proposal by
the deadline above. The application form can be downloaded below.
If you need more information, please e-mail us.


(This project is only for JET and F&#193;Sparticipants and
recognised Ireland-related societies in Japan.)

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jul 2010 02:32:09 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Irish Economy emerging from recession]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83599</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Embassy of Ireland Media Announcement 1 July 2010


Irish Economy emerging from recession
Publication of CSO National Accounts Figures for Quarter 1 2010


Figures from the Irish Central Statistics Office released on 30th
June 2010 show that the Irish economy technically emerged from
recession in the first three months of the year.


The Irish Minister for Finance, Mr. Brian Lenihan T.D. welcomed the
publication of the Central Statistics Office’s National Accounts
figures for the first quarter of 2010. Commenting on the data, the
Minister stated:


“These economic figures show that Ireland is out of recession with
GDP expanding by 2.7 per cent between the final quarter of last
year and the first quarter of this year, which is the fastest
growth rate in the OECD. This provides concrete evidence that the
coordinated measures taken by Government to address
competitiveness, the public finances, and the banking system are
paying off with improved confidence and clear evidence of a return
to economic growth. Economic growth is an essential driver of
jobs growth.


“In the December 2009 budget, my Department projected a GDP decline
of 1&#188; per cent. Today’s figures suggest the prospects for
growth this year are somewhat better than previously assumed.
Today’s figures also show that exports are performing strongly,
while consumer spending has stabilised. This, coupled with the
figures for consumer confidence since April, bode well for the
remainder of the year.”


The Minister said that although there continues to be additions to
the Live Register, we know that employment growth inevitably
follows with some time lag growth in economic activity.


“Of course, unemployment is unacceptably high. But the best way to
create and protect jobs is to return to economic growth. Every
measure the government has taken over the last two years is aimed
at getting those who have lost their jobs back to work. The
Government has introduced targeted measures to assist job creation
in different sectors of the economy. Continued economic growth is
the best way to grow employment. The figures show that the policies
we have been pursuing are the right ones and that we must continue
with our plan.”


-----


Please find below link for the CSO figures.

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Thu, 01 Jul 2010 08:02:21 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Ireland in Japan]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=33442</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Welcome by the Ambassador of Ireland to Japan, Mr. Brendan Scannell


Fearaim f&#225;ilte r&#243;mhaibh go l&#225;ithre&#225;in l&#237;onra Ambas&#225;id na h&#201;ireann
sa tSeap&#225;in


Welcome to the website for the Embassy of Ireland in Japan. This
website has been created with the needs of the Irish community in
mind and contains information on all aspects of the work of the
Embassy as well as the consular services that we provide. The
website will also serve as a forum for providing information to
Irish and Japanese citizens alike on upcoming events as well as the
ongoing developments in Ireland-Japan relations. I hope you will
find this website both useful and informative and should you have
any comments or require further details on anything contained
within this site, please do not hesitate to contact us.


Brendan Scannell


Ambassador of Ireland





IMPORTANT INFORMATION RELATING TO ONGOING AIR TRAVEL
RESTRICTIONS IN EUROPE


Irish citizens who are unable to travel to Europe due to
ongoing air travel restrictions, should be aware of the
following:


1. Visa Extensions


Citizens whose visas may expire before they can depart
Japan may apply for an extension at Tokyo Regional Immigration
Bureau (or their nearest Immigration Bureau). Applications for
extensions will need to be made in person and citizens will be
required to present their passport, airline ticket and a fee of JPY
4,000.


2. Services at Narita and Kansai Airports


Narita Airport Authority and Kansai Airport Authority have
put in place the following services and provisions for stranded
passengers:


(i) Use of airport lounges for
free
(ii) Provision of light meals and beverages for
free
(iii) Provision of free coupons for the use of shower
rooms
(iv) Provision of sleeping bags and
blankets
(v) Use of airport internet facilities for free and
provision of English language newspapers


Full information on these
services can be foundhere.


3. Department of Foreign
Affairs Crisis Centre


In view of the ongoing difficult circumstances, the
Department has opened its Consular Crisis Centre. It can be
contacted on +353 1 408 2999. The Centre is there to assist those
in difficulty and should only be accessed by those in genuine need.
The Department will be able to provide information and reassurance
but cannot make individual travel arrangements.


Further information on the Crisis Centre and travel advice
specific to this situation can be found at the website of the
Department of Foreign Affairs


Irish citizens in Japan who are in genuine need of
assistance may also contact the Embassy of Ireland at 03 3263
0695.





IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING PASSPORT APPLICATIONS


Due to ongoing industrial action in the passport offices in
Ireland, it is no longer possible to guarantee a turnaround time
for the issuing of passports. Before making any overseas travel
plans, Irish citizens should check the expiry dates of their
passport and the passport of those on whose behalf they are making
bookings. If passports haveexpired, or have insufficient
validity to allow completion of the planned journey, an application
for renewal should be submitted NOW and in sufficient time that the
new passport can be received before the intended date of
travel.


However, the Embassy of Ireland cannot guarantee when
passports will be issued and the status of applications should be
monitoredregularly via www.passport.ie


It is not possible to fast-track any application other than
in the case of genuine family emergency, in which case proof will
be required that travel is necessitated by thedeath, illness
or welfare of a family member.




]]></description>
					<pubDate>Tue, 29 Jun 2010 05:44:42 UTC</pubDate>
		
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				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[New House of Waterford Crystal Opens ]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83584</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
A Sparkling New Beginning!
New House of Waterford Crystal Opens



The new House of Waterford Crystal - opened its doors this week to
the public and hopefully will become one of Waterford’s top tourist
attractions. Located on the Mall in Waterford City, the new
premises will employ up to 130 staff at peak periods, including
highly skilled craftsmen at this new prestige manufacturing
facility.
Over 40,000 hand-crafted high end pieces will be produced using
traditional methods for the most discerning customers and the
thousands of tourists who will visit the new facility. These
pieces will be created before your very eyes..
The new facility comprises an actual living and breathing crystal
factory tour, fascinating visitor centre and opulent retail store,
housing the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the
World. The premises will be open from June to September,
seven days a week with Factory tours 9- 4.15pm. Contact details:
(051) 317000.


Issued by
F&#225;ilte Ireland Communications Department
Tel: 01-8847181

June 2010

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Wed, 23 Jun 2010 08:15:42 UTC</pubDate>
		
				</item>			
			
				<item>
					<title><![CDATA[Irish Minister of Energy, Communications and Natural Resources visit to Japan]]></title>
					<link>http://192.168.99.95/home/index.aspx?id=83572</link>
					<description><![CDATA[
Embassy of Ireland Media Announcement 11 June, 2010


Irish Minister of Energy, Communications and Natural Resources
visit to Japan 13-16 June 2010





1.Ireland’s Minister of Energy, Communications and Natural
Resources, Mr &#201;amon Ryan will be in Japan from 13-16 June.


2.During his visit he will deliver the keynote address at a
major Global ICT Summit at the Nikkei Hall in Tokyo on 14 June and
will address the mainly business and IT industry audience on the
subject of Ireland’s Smart Economy, Green Innovation. In his
speech, the Minister will cover areas which have been selected by
the Irish Government as opportunities for future growth in Ireland,
which include innovations in advanced communications technologies,
cloud computing, renewable energy generation &amp;amp; energy efficient
technologies. He will meet his Japanese counterpart, the Minister
of Internal Affairs and Communications, Mr Kazuhiro Haraguchi who
is opening the event. (See http://www.ict-summit.jp/2010/
for details).


3.As part of his visit the Minister will advance business
opportunities established between Irish and Japanese companies on
the occasion of the symposium on green technology ‘Green Ireland’,
held in Tokyo last March. He will also have discussions with Nissan
and Mitsubishi Motors who both have signed agreements for the
testing of electric vehicles in Ireland and a meeting with Toyota.


4.He will address the Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce
http://www.ijcc.jp/ and will be
promoting the interests of Irish ICT companies active in Japan,
through a series of meetings with their Japanese partners.



Note on Ireland’s Smart Economy


Ireland’s economic strategy for sustaining and creating jobs and
building on its reputation as an innovation hub is set out in ‘A
Framework for Economic Renewal: Building on Ireland’s Smart
Economy’ (December 2008). It focuses on a thriving enterprise
sector, security of energy supplies and a first-class
infrastructure. Its aim is to position Ireland at the forefront in
excellence of its research and its ‘generation of new knowledge for
economic and social progress’.


For further information :


•Smart Ireland Website http://www.smartireland.jp/
•Embassy of Ireland: www.embassyofireland.jp
•Enterprise Ireland www.enterprise-ireland.or.jp

•Industrial Development Agency Ireland www.idaireland.jp

]]></description>
					<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:29:26 UTC</pubDate>
		
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	</channel>
</rss>
