DETAILS OF THE route to be taken by the Olympic torch when it passes through Ireland en route to the London 2012 games have been confirmed.
The flame will come to this country on June 6 next year, making a one-day detour during its trip around the North. It will then continue its journey around the UK before the games’ official opening ceremony on July 27.
A spokesperson for the Olympic Committee of Ireland has confirmed to TheJournal.ie that the torch’s visit to the Republic will begin with a symbolic crossing of the border at Newry, to celebrate “14 years of peace” in Northern Ireland. It will then travel to the Olympic Committee of Ireland headquarters in Howth before heading to Dublin city centre.
First the flame will be taken to Croke Park, where it will be abseiled from the stadium roof to the pitch. It will then go to the Garden of Remembrance in Parnell Square before heading down O’Connell Street towards the IFSC and out into the Sheriff Street area. After crossing the river via the new Samuel Beckett bridge, it will pass Government Buildings and go out across the south side towards Harold’s Cross.
The flame will then return to the city centre via Clanbrassil Street, Patrick Street, and Dame Street with a public celebration.
Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, OCI president Pat Hickey said the flame would not be travelling around the country outside Dublin due to time limitations. “We’re limited to x amount of hours when it comes down here,” he said. “What we’re going to do is try and embrace people from around the country, who can run with the torch for a leg in Dublin.”
An OCI spokesperson said 50 to 60 people would be selected to run with the flame, drawn from the sporting world and the general public. He added that International Olympic Committee rules forbid any politicians or their family members from running with the torch.
The route is currently waiting for final confirmation from the London authorities. Details do not appear to have reached the official London 2012 website – a map of planned destinations does not include anywhere in Ireland.
