RBL Ireland in Annual Somme Ceremony of Remembrance and Wreath Laying

This unique commemorative ceremony and wreath-laying at the Irish National War Memorial is a collaborative event jointly organised by the Royal British Legion in conjunction with the Irish State. It is held on the anniversary of the Battle of the Somme and honours the memory of those who perished in the World Wars, especially the approximately 60,000 Irish War Dead. Reflecting the inclusive spirit of the occasion, representatives from all parts and backgrounds of Ireland are welcomed.

Beginning at 12:30 pm, the ceremony features a vibrant parade showcasing the standards of the Royal British Legion, various regiments, ex-services organizations, and commemorative groups. Following this, an ecumenical remembrance service, including readings and musical performances, takes place. Official wreaths are laid by governmental and civic leaders from Ireland and Northern Ireland, members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives of the Armed Forces and veterans, as well as veterans and their families.

The participation of all communities and traditions in the wreath-laying is encouraged, emphasising unity and mutual respect for the sacrifices made. Musical accompaniment is provided jointly by bands from the Irish Defence Forces and the Royal Irish Regiment.

This annual commemoration is suported by Poppy Ireland Clg, the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and a Deptartment of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund award to organisations working to build better relations within and between traditions in Northern Ireland, between North and South, and between Ireland and Britain.

Information for Guests

Thank you for registering to attend the Annual RBL Commemoration and Wreath Laying at the Irish National War Memorial Park, Islandbridge, Dublin 8. The information below should assist you in planning your attendance and ensure that the event runs as smoothly as possible. If you have any further queries, or any special access requirements, please email adminroi@britishlegion.org.uk.

Arrival

Please arrange to arrive at Islandbridge at by 12 noon . Stewards will be on hand to direct you to seating. Guests should be seated in the Arena no later than 12.20pm. A commemorative booklet will be offered on arrival which will include full details of the ceremony.

Dress code

Given the solemn nature of the commemorative ceremony, suitable attire is requested of all guests - business attire or smart casual is recommended. Official decorations and medals may be worn. This is an outdoor event on grass and guests are asked to be mindful of weather conditions and to dress accordingly.

Wreaths

Organisations - If you wish to lay a wreath on behalf of an organisation which you officially represent please register your intention in advance by emailing adminroi@britishlegion.org.uk giving the name of your organisation, your name, official position and contact details.

Personal/family wreaths or dedications - There will be an opportunity for personal dedications following the official wreath laying. Commemorative crosses and other items will be available at the event for a suggested donation. Please email us if you wish to order a poppy wreath in advance.

Poppy wreaths and other remembrance items may also be obtained from the Royal British Legion at 19 Molesworth St, Dublin 2 (10am-2pm Mon-Thur, or by appointment) or via our Poppy Shop

Access

The sole access to the event for approved vehicles and pedestrians is via the South Circular Road. The Con Colbert Road gate will be closed to pedestrians.

Travel

Due to the large number of official persons attending this ceremony Guests are advised that the entrance may be subject to congestion.

Cars and Coaches: There is limited vehicular access and parking within the memorial park grounds. There is also a large pay & display car park at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, entering from Military Road. On Google maps, you should search for IMMA. The walk to the INWM park entrance is around 10 minutes via Kilmainham Gate.

Public Transport: Bus route 69 from Fleet St stops opposite the event entrance at Clancy Barracks (SCR). Routes 25, 26, 66, 66a, 66b, 67 stop on Conyngham Road, just a 5-minute walk via the South Circular Road to the entrance.

Luas Red Line stop at Heuston Station – is a 15/20-minute walk to the South Circular Road entrance.

If arriving by taxi it is recommended that you alight at the South Circular Road.

Security

Your co-operation with security personnel at all times would be appreciated. An Garda Síochána has confirmed the following arrangements for security: Guests should be able to produce a form of identification, either a passport, National ID card or a driving licence with photograph. Mobile phones should be set to silent operation during the ceremony. While you are waiting for the ceremony to begin at 12.30pm you are welcome to look around the war memorial site. All guests should be in their seats by 12.20pm, in readiness for the ceremony beginning at 12.30pm.

Refreshments

After the ceremony light refreshments will be provided at the Memorial Park site. This is a free event but support donations of any size are welcome. If you would like to make a contribution please do so by choosing the "support ticket" option when registering. Also donate via debit/credit card at PayPal.Me/PoppyIreland.

Toilet facilities are available on site.

Rules, Terms and Conditions

1. For the purposes of the below information, “Organiser” refers to the Royal British Legion-Republic of Ireland. “Ticket-holder” refers to guests attending the ceremony.

2. The Organiser reserves the right to refuse anyone entry to the event at their absolute discretion, and any person who fails to comply with instructions from an official steward or other person acting on behalf of the event Organisers may be refused entry or ejected

3. Vehicles and their contents parked on site or at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham car park are entirely at the owner’s risk.

4. The Organisers reserve the right to search all persons and personal property and refuse admission to, or eject from the event, any person who refuses to be searched by an official steward or a member of An Garda Síochána; or other person acting on their behalf.

5. No alcohol is permitted to be taken into the event. Strictly no illegal substances will be permitted. There will be a strict no smoking policy within the Commemorative Arena section of the park.

6. A strict dress code will apply to all ticket-holders. The wearing of uniforms, insignia, emblems and costumes (with exception of serving military, ex-service personnel, recognised first aid and emergency services) is prohibited and musical instruments are not permitted at the event.

7. Animals other than official guide dogs are not permitted in the arena.

8. Media will be present at the ceremony. Ticket-holders give their consent to their actual or simulated likeness being used in broadcast or print images.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

Contact us via email: adminroi@britishlegion.org.uk