Fans are being advised to arrive at the Aviva early.
The FAI has today announced that there will be increased security at the Aviva Stadium tonight ahead of the Republic of Ireland’s second leg play-off clash with Bosnia and Herzegovina this evening.
According to a statement made by the FAI to the lads at JOE.ie, the heightened security measures comes in the aftermath of Friday night’s attacks in Paris, as one of the attacks took place near the Stade de France where France were playing Germany in a friendly.
Speaking to JOE.ie, Director of Communications Ian Mallon stated: “For match day, there is already a rigorous and thorough security operation in place at the Aviva for every football game, and particularly for Category One fixtures such as this play-off tie against Bosnia and Herzegovina.”
Ireland’s Seamus Coleman with Senad Lulic of Bosnia
“In the wake of the series of attacks in Paris and at the Stade de France, the level of alertness will be at an absolute maximum.
“As with every game, the overall security operation will include a sweep of the stadium with dogs and manpower, for any suspect packages or devices – and this will be constant throughout the day.
“At all entry points to the stadium security staff will operate on an increased level of awareness and will scrutinize all those arriving with a heightened level of anticipation, with body and bag searches where necessary.
“In the immediate aftermath of the Paris attacks, we have taken steps to increase awareness at all operational and security briefings, with added emphasis to all staff and stewards to increase awareness and to demonstrate extra vigilance.
“I would like to add that the Football Association of Ireland would like to extend its sympathies and support to the French nation at this time of great pain.”
Kick-off time at the Aviva is 7.45pm.
