Warning Issued To Tourists Travelling To Ireland In The Lead up To 1916 Centenary

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs has issued a warning to those travelling to Ireland in the lead up to the 1916 centenary. An update on their website, which provides security advice for those travelling abroad, warns of civil unrest between dissident republicans and unionists. The site reads: “Tensions between dissident republicans and unionists have increased in the lead up to the centenary of the Easter Rising (24-29 April – Proclamation of Irish independence). “You should avoid all protests and demonstrations, including those associated with Northern Ireland, as they may turn violent. “Instances of civil disorder can rapidly escalate into violence and you should avoid them wherever possible, including through careful monitoring of the media and following the advice of local authorities.” Travellers are advised to "exercise normal safety precautions in Ireland" and to "look out for suspicious behaviour". The site describes Ireland as having a "moderate incidence of serious, violent crime" and tourists are warned that car theft and ATM scams are on the rise.