VAI News
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The Visual Artists’ News Sheet is guaranteed the most affordable and cost effective platform for publicising art events, exhibitions, arts services, artists’ materials & equipment, notices of commissions & other opportunities for artists. We print and distribute 6000 copies per issue of this 40 page newspaper throughout Ireland six times a year, ensuring that your advertising is read as timely and relevant.
All advertising queries should be directed to:
Thomas Pool
News Provision
T: 01 672 9488
E: ne...@visualartists.ie
The deadline is fast approaching and if you have yet to reserve ad space please do so as soon as possible. We only have Inside Pages space left available.
As part of VAI’s push to become a more green organisation we now use biodegradable packaging for individual subscribers of the VAN.
Alongside the print advertising that we continue to offer in The Visual Artists’ News Sheet – VAI’s bi-monthly publication – we also offer digital banner adverts within VAI’s twice weekly eBulletin as well as promotional posts across VAI’s extensive social media platforms.
When placing an advertisement in the VAN, you can now maximise your audience with this new bundle (comprising an ad in the eBulletin, with the additional option of a targeted promotional post across VAI’s social media platforms) for an additional fee of €155.
We have recently simplified the process for our Facebook advertisements, and have optimised the pricing to produce over 10,000 views per post. If your target audience is smaller this can be adequately adjusted upon request.
As a result of this highly successful programme, we are excited to offer you a the VAN, eBulletin and Social Media Advertising Bundle, which comprises three strands:
- Print Advertisement (The VAN) – A well respected and durational advertising option, best suited to the promotion of forthcoming or seasonal programmes, events and opportunities.
- Digital Banner Advertisement (VAI eBulletin) – A responsive advertising option within our eBulletin (twice per week). This option is best suited to the promotion of immediate or short-term programmes, events and opportunities.
- Social Media Advertising (VAI Facebook Page) – A targeted advertising option to run in conjunction with Digital Banner Advertisements, best suited to the promotion of immediate or short-term programmes, events and opportunities.
Advertisers now have the option to promote different programmes or opportunities in print and online. These bundles are flexible with the needs of our advertisers in mind, to ensure that your ad is seen by the maximum amount of VAI readers and subscribers.
Who Are We?
- Visual Artists Ireland is a trusted space and respected information resource.
- VAI is in a unique position of having contact with artists, arts professionals and arts organisations on a weekly basis, through the various services we provide.
- Recent VAI figures show that we directly engage with more than 80% of visual artists in Ireland.
VAI Reach & Engagement:
- VAN Readership = 5,600
- eBulletin Mailing List = 12,000 subscribers (with a click rate of 46%)
- Facebook = 31,000 followers
- Instagram = 13,400 followers
- Twitter = 16,200 followers
Returns for Advertisers:
- Access to a concentrated visual arts audience across Ireland, Northern Ireland and beyond, who regularly engage with our services across multiple platforms.
- Access to over 44,000 social media followers, located nationwide and internationally.
Additional Perks for VAI Member Organisations
- VAI Member Organisations can now enjoy a 10% discount on all advertisements placed in the VAN as well as in the eBulletin.
You can refer to our updated 2025 Advertising Rate Card for a list of competitive prices, as well as technical specifications for your advertisements.
Please do get in touch to discuss these options or to book an advertising slot across one or more of these platforms. Since demand is already high and space is limited, advertisements will be placed on a first-come-first-serve basis.
To reserve advertising space contact Thomas at ne...@visualartists.ie
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Job Vacancies
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Nenagh Arts Centre is seeking applications from dynamic and motivated individuals for the role of ARTISTIC DIRECTOR.
Nenagh Arts Centre CLG is a vibrant cultural hub presenting an ambitious, multi-disciplinary programme of events. The Centre provides opportunities for artists across a range of art forms to showcase high-quality work while fostering meaningful engagement with the local community.
Click here for more information and to apply
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This role is responsible for planning and delivering engaging digital and print communications that reflect the vibrancy, inclusivity and social impact of Galway Community Circus. The Communications Coordinator plays a key role in promoting classes, performances and community programmes while also documenting and sharing the organisation’s impact with the public, funders and stakeholders. The ideal candidate is a strong storyteller, has excellent digital skills, visual awareness and the ability to manage multiple projects at once
Click here for more information and to apply
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Cow House Studios is seeking a painter to join our faculty for Art on the Farm, our summer program for high school students aged 15 to 17, from June 22nd to July 22nd, 2026.
The successful candidate will reside at Cow House Studios for the duration of the program. Accommodation and all meals are provided.The position pays €200 per day with five scheduled days off over the course of the month. Applicants must be based in Ireland or the EU and hold legal status permitting them to work in Ireland. To apply please send a single PDF (10mb or under) containing your CV artist statement and a selection of recent work to in...@cowhousestudios.com
For further information please contact in...@cowhousestudios.com
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Opportunities Ireland
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The RHA invites artists to submit proposals to exhibit in the Ashford Gallery for its 2027 programme. Slots are approximately 4 weeks long, beginning in January 2027.
The Ashford Gallery is a commercial art space within the RHA, creating opportunities for artists to earn income and meet collectors and new audiences. Artists will benefit from the expertise of the marketing, engagement and curatorial teams at the RHA.
Click here for more information and to apply
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NCF Cultural Co-operative and Ballina Fringe Festival, invites visual artists based in Ireland to apply for an LGBTQ+ visual arts residency in Ballina, Co. Mayo, funded by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality. The residency supports research and development of new work exploring LGBTQ+ themes, histories or futures. It is process-focused, open to all visual media, and encourages engagement with local and LGBTQ+ communities connected to the festival. € 500 artists fee and accommodation included.
Click here for more information and to apply
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Applications are now open for Independent Creative Producers to join the field:arts cohort. This is a unique opportunity to work alongside your artists within a sustained, agile framework supporting ambitious contemporary practice.
Click here for more information and to apply
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THREADs is excited to launch the Reimagined Resources Open Call – and we’re inviting designers connected to the Interreg NPA Region (FI/SE/NO/IS/IE) to apply.
We’re looking for designers, craftspeople, architects, technologists and creatives who want to explore circular design and work hands‑on with end‑of‑life textiles.
Deadline: 13 April 2026 (23:59 CET)
Apply via the online form + submit CV, portfolio & short statement
Click here for more information and to apply
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The Arts Offices of counties Clare, Limerick and Tipperary in partnership with VAI invite are inviting artists based in Clare, Limerick and Tipperary to submit an expression of interest to be one of the artists showcased at the artists and curator Café at Nenagh Arts Centre on 21 April where you will present slides of your practice. You will also receive an presentation fee of €50.
The selection of artists practices will be curated by Dr Marianne O’ Kane Boal.
To submit your expression of interest, register for the event on the VAI website and then send the following:
- a short artist’s statement (150 words)
- three high resolution images of work
To Emer Ferran: serv...@visualartists.ie by Friday 10 April.
This event is supported by Clare, Limerick and Tipperary County Councils
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Opportunities International
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The Künstlerhaus Marktoberdor is launching its first open call for submissions to enliven the museum’s spaces with an eight-week experimental exhibition and an innovative accompanying program for visitors in the summer of 2026. This open call seeks to have an external team of artists and/or curators design an exhibition space within the museum, creating a contemporary and experimental art project.
The Künstlerhaus Marktoberdor is offering a flat rate of €8,000 including VAT for the selected applicant(s).
Click here for more information and to apply
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Residencies
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NCF Cultural Co-operative and Ballina Fringe Festival, invites visual artists based in Ireland to apply for an LGBTQ+ visual arts residency in Ballina, Co. Mayo, funded by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality. The residency supports research and development of new work exploring LGBTQ+ themes, histories or futures. It is process-focused, open to all visual media, and encourages engagement with local and LGBTQ+ communities connected to the festival. € 500 artists fee and accommodation included.
Click here for more information and to apply
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Commissions
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Roscommon Arts Office now invites submissions from artists for an original public artwork for the new Boyle Community Library. Proposals for outdoor and/or indoor permanent artworks are welcomed which may incorporate other artforms such as literature, film, music etc. The proposal may be / or have elements that are tactile or interactive.
This is a one-stage, open themed process.
Overall commission budget is €36,000.00, including VAT.
Submissions and queries to msm...@roscommoncoco.ie.
Funded by the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.
Click here for more information and to apply
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Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) invites visual artists to submit proposals for a site-specific artwork that will accompany the forthcoming Oranmore rail infrastructure upgrade. The project—comprising a new 185 metre platform, a one-kilometre double-track passing loop, an under-pass with step-free access, a dedicated cycle route and a range of passenger-amenities—offers a unique canvas on which to celebrate the town’s heritage, its evolving identity and its role as a gateway to the wider Iarnród Éireann network.
Information Session: Artists will have the opportunity to attend an online Information Session will take place on Wednesday 28th January from 14.00hrs to 14.45hrs. We will be joined by project managers for Oranmore and representatives from the Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail Design Team who will be available to answer questions.
Please register to attend the Information Session by emailing ar...@irishrail.ie. Attending the Information Session is not a requirement; queries can also be submitted by email to the same address.
Click here for more information and to apply
To view call through Irish please click here
Additional detailed information is available at the following links: FAQ Document, Info Session Presentation for Interested Artists, Topographical Survey of Existing Station, Infrastructure Manager Safety Standard, Model Fly Through of Design, Proposed Design in CAD, High Quality Images to Download
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Wexford County Council’s Arts Office, in partnership with Creative Ireland, invites applications from visual artists to develop a new body of work which explores Wexford’s Anglo-Norman heritage and legacy.
The art commission is socially engaged in nature and will involve the artist undergoing research and working with local communities in Wexford County in the development of the work over a 16-month period (May 2026-August 2027).
Click here for more information and to apply
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EVA International invites proposals for the 2027 Platform Commissions in response to the linked thematic statement. Selected artists will receive funding and support to develop and present new work during the biennial (August–October, 2027) across venues in Limerick City. The selection panel includes artists Bridget O’Gorman, Phillip McCrilly and Eimear Walshe, and is chaired by the EVA team.
Click here for more information and to apply
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Dublin City Council, through its Arts office, is seeking to commission a temporary Public Artwork for Dolphin House. This is the first of 3 mini public art commissions which are part of a wider programme of work, culminating in a larger scale public artwork that will be commissioned in 2027.
Funding arises from the Per cent for Art programme.
Click here for more information and to apply
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Funding / Awards
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Apply now for dlr Emerging Artist Bursaries to support individual emerging artists (in all artforms) from Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown to develop and further their practice through the creation of new work at this vital stage in their career development.
Successful recipients will receive an award of €2,000 for the development and creation of new work during the period June-December 2026.
dlr Emerging Artist Bursaries 2026 are funded by dlr County Council and The Arts Council.
Click here for more information and to apply
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This year, one postgraduate NCAD applicant on each of the four programmes listed below will receive a scholarship towards fees
- MA Design History and Material Culture (part-time) – full EU fee
- MA Art in the Contemporary World (part-time or full-time) – full EU fee
- MA Service Design (part-time) – €2250
- MA Circular by Design – €2250
Click here for more information and to apply
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Workshops
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This course is designed to explore in depth the act of looking and drawing the landscape with charcoal in an approachable and enjoyable way.
Weekly live online sessions will provide an opportunity to get personalised feedback from Michael, and all students will be invited to an exclusive private chat group, where Michael will share inspiration, and answer questions.
Click here for more information and to book
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In this Follow-on One-Day Workshop, participants who have previously taken our Introductory Workshop will continue on to new subjects. Use of materials and refreshments is included. Advance booking is essential as places are limited.
Intro Workshop (live online) may be taken prior to this workshop (see listings).
Tutor: Karen Colbert MFA, VAI Member
Click here for more information and to book
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Learn about materials, basic brushstrokes and techniques used for painting grasses, flowers, trees and more. This unique art form uses only black ink, handmade paper, and a special brush. This live online workshop may also be sent as a gift. (Tick ‘send as gift’ box when booking.)
Tutor: Karen Colbert MFA, VAI Member
Click here for more information and to book
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Join us for a fun online zine-making workshop where art meets activism. Whether you’re a seasoned illustrator, a writer, or totally new to zines, this 90-minute session will give you the tools to express resistance, solidarity, and vision through small self-published works. Led by Camilla Fanning, whose artist books, zines and collage works have been featured in curated exhibitions in Ireland and abroad, this workshop is perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike.
For more information and to book please contact Camilla at cjfa...@cjfanning.com
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We’re back with another fun and creative day of painting at the United Arts Club. This workshop will focus on how to successfully paint an atmospheric lake scene with water reflections.
The workshop will be based on a three-part demonstration where Kasper will show his technique, and after each part, he will assist the students along the way.
Click here for more information and to book
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Thinking about applying for the Agility Award but not sure where to start? This short online workshop will help you approach the application process with more clarity and confidence. In this practical and supportive session, we’ll share useful tips, insider insights, and simple strategies to help you strengthen your application and clearly communicate your plans. Led by a practising artist with several successful Arts Council applications, the workshop offers practical guidance drawn from real experience. Ideal for artists applying for the first time or returning to funding.
For more information and to book please contact Camilla at cjfa...@cjfanning.com
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This one-day workshop invites you on a gentle journey into the world of East Asian calligraphy (Shodō) — where writing is more than technique; it is a form of meditation, a dance of ink and spirit on paper. Rooted in ancient Eastern wisdom, this experience blends calligraphy practice, mindful movement, and moments of Zen stillness.
Click here for more information and to book
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If you’re curious about painting but unsure where to begin, this course offers a supportive introduction to oils. Guided by Sinead, you’ll learn how to mix colour, apply paint, and create texture while becoming comfortable with the medium. Set in a relaxed, judgement-free environment, the course encourages exploration and confidence. Students also gain access to a dedicated “Working in Oils” online space with notes, references, materials lists, and ongoing support.
Click here for more information and to book
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Build strong drawing skills through a focused study of the human figure from a live model. This course emphasises core fundamentals: seeing the figure as a whole, understanding anatomy, capturing gesture, weight, and balance, and using light and shadow to describe form. Working from sustained poses, you’ll develop confidence in proportion, observation, and materials. A structured, skills-based approach designed to improve your drawing from the ground up.
Click here for more information and to book
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Learn to draw and paint the everyday objects around you, from coffee cups to fruit and flowers, with confidence and joy. Guided by Stephanie, this course explores expressive yet realistic watercolour techniques, alongside mark-making with pencil, pen, and brush. You’ll build skills, overcome fear of mistakes, and bring your sketches to life in a relaxed, supportive setting. Suitable for complete beginners and anyone looking to develop their creative practice.
Click here for more information and to book
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This course focuses on building a creative practice that lasts beyond the classroom. Led by Nicholas Robinson, it’s designed to help you make real progress in drawing and painting through simple, effective exercises rooted in core principles. Over six weeks, you’ll develop skills in drawing and painting from life while learning how to create a sustainable routine. The aim is to help you make every moment of practice meaningful and keep improving long after the course ends.
Click here for more information and to book
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Discover the luminous effects of traditional oil painting through an indirect, layered approach. Guided by Nicholas Robinson, this course breaks the process into clear, accessible steps for all levels. Working from simple still-life setups, you’ll learn canvas preparation, imprimatura, colour studies, and building translucent layers to create depth and light. With a mix of group instruction and individual feedback, you’ll complete a resolved painting and gain a strong foundation in this timeless technique.
Click here for more information and to book
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Explore the timeless practices of figure and portrait painting in oil. This course breaks down painting from life into clear, practical steps, helping you understand form through light and shadow, basic anatomy, and strong composition. Working from both the nude figure or portrait, you’ll cover drawing, colour mixing, materials, and techniques for capturing expression, building confidence and skill in observational painting.
Click here for more information and to book
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The virtual art studio is space for creative coaching, experimenting and collaboration. Blackrock based artist Love, Builder of Worlds is facilitating the space for creative people on Zoom.
Click here for more information and to book
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Tutors: Vaida Varnagiene & Richard Lawlor
A structured six-week course exploring intaglio etching techniques including line, texture and tone. Ideal for developing skills, confidence and a cohesive body of printed work.
Our studio is wheelchair accessible, and we welcome participants from all backgrounds to learn, grow, and enjoy their creative practice.
Click here for more information and to book
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Tutor: Oona Hyland
An introduction to woodblock printmaking using the reduction method. Learn carving, inking, registration and printing techniques to create a small multicolour edition.
Our studio is wheelchair accessible, and we welcome participants from all backgrounds to learn, grow, and enjoy their creative practice.
Click here for more information and to book
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TUTOR: Julie Ann Haines
A focused one-day introduction to spitbite aquatint. Learn how to apply acid with a brush to create expressive, painterly tonal effects. Perfect for those curious about intaglio or looking to expand their etching techniques.
Our studio is wheelchair accessible, and we welcome participants from all backgrounds to learn, grow, and enjoy their creative practice.
Click here for more information and to book
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TUTOR: Eilis Murphy
Design, print and bind your own A5 poetry or short-story chapbook. Learn layout, page imposition and traditional single-signature binding. Please note: this is not a writing workshop—participants must bring pre-written text.
Our studio is wheelchair accessible, and we welcome participants from all backgrounds to learn, grow, and enjoy their creative practice.
Click here for more information and to book
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Each session will start with warm up sketches and gestural short poses. We will look at Skeletal and Head drawing systems, as well as focus on anatomical drawing lessons. Composition and drawing with paint will also be covered under the expert guidance of the artist. This short course is suitable for beginners and also those looking to develop their skills and techniques.
Click here for more information and to book
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This is an oil painting from life course with a live model present for each class.
Each pose in this course will be for 2 weeks and each pose will have a different focus, for example focusing on the structure of the face, hands, drapery, colour, etc.
The course will include demonstrations and guidance from the artist, as well as an opportunity to paint faces, hands and clothing from life.$
Click here for more information and to book
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Are you an illustrator, hand-drawer or sketchbook enthusiast ready to explore the vibrant world of screen‐printing? Join artist Colleen Eilís Murphy at Creative Spark Dundalk for a 5-week evening course that will take your mark-making, drawing and printmaking to new levels
Click here for more information and to apply
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TUTOR: Rachel Merrigan
A hands-on introduction to screenprinting using water-based inks. Learn how to coat, expose and print your own screens, experiment with colour, and produce a small edition of prints using professional studio equipment. No prior experience required.
Our studio is wheelchair accessible, and we welcome participants from all backgrounds to learn, grow, and enjoy their creative practice.
Click here for more information and to book
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This one-day workshop offers an introduction to monoprinting using a printing press. Monoprint is a versatile printmaking technique, combining inked surfaces, a range of textures and mark-making to create one-off prints. Each print is unique and cannot be repeated, offering an introduction to a fun and expressive way of printmaking.
Click here for more information and to book
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NEW PROGRAM OF COURSES 2026 BY ARTFORM IS NOW AVAILABLE ON ARTFORM.IE.
Artform School of Art offers residential artist-led seaside art courses in the beautiful coastal village of Dunmore East, Co. Waterford for all skill levels in a variety of styles and media, hosted by some of Irish leading artists, and taking place in Artform light-filled seaside studio with 24hr access for each artist. We hold open call competitions, exhibitions, art events and artist residencies. To find out more, get in touch or visit us in Dunmore East.
Click here for more information and to book
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Come join us for a taster class in cyanotype and anthotype print as we explore ways to work sustainably and ecologically
This workshop will guide participants through print making from a sustainable greener positioning. We will talk through what the processes are, how they work, show examples and start to create work to print in class along with skills to continue at home. No experience required, suitable for all with an interest in eco practices, photograqphic practices or simply those who want to have a lovely day making and learning.
Click here for more information and to apply
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For Sale / Wanted / Other
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We recommend that you check all eligibility criteria carefully. As the All Ireland representative body we aim to advertise opportunities available to all artists. But with new restrictions, some opportunities may only be available to artists in the Republic of Ireland, the EU or specifically in Northern Ireland or the UK.
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International Memberships
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