Attention mes amis while we witness the brave men (and women) of Munster cheer and exclaim vive la Republique of Cork.
All ahead of the Rugby World Cup, the starting gun for which has been shot with the Summer Series games across Europe.
Ireland, as the world’s No.1 side, are among the favourites with hosts France.
And proud Corkonians that they are they believe their province Munster are the true custodians of Irish rugby.
Built largely on a famous Munster victory over the world’s most successful country, New Zealand in 1978.
The 15-0 triumph over Graeme Mourie’s All Blacks.
The first by an Irish side and a touch point for a future rugby hero Ronan O’Gara.
O’Gara, whose drop goal kick in Cardiff won Ireland their first Grand Slam in 61 years in 2009, is better placed than most.
To promote further links between Cork and World Cup hosts France.
With O’Gara, a perfect No.10 by any gauge, having gone on to forge a stellar coaching career in France.
And masterminding the development of one Jonny Sexton there.
Way to Ro
House of O’Gara: Ronan and friends at Charles Fort in Kinsale. PIc: John Allan
It makes sense then that Tourism Ireland approached Ronan, manager of La Rochelle, to front a new campaign to promote Cork in France this autumn.
With the campaign going live next month to coincide with the Rugby World Cup.
The campaign will include a new video featuring O’Gara.
Visiting various locations in Kinsale and Cork city that ‘fill his heart with Ireland’.
As well as showcasing some of the many great things to see and do on a holiday in Kinsale and Cork.
The aim of the campaign is to encourage French holidaymakers to fly or sail direct to Cork during the off-season months.
It will run on Tourism Ireland’s social channels in France from early September.
A word from the sponsors
Monica MacLaverty, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Southern Europe, said: ‘We are delighted to partner with Ronan O’Gara for our upcoming campaign in France.
‘It’s a great opportunity to capitalise on the excitement in the run-up to, and during, the Rugby World Cup.
‘Our aim is to highlight the many great experiences and attractions in Cork city and county.
‘As well as the ease of access from France to Cork and the warm welcome that awaits our French visitors.’
Amis across the water
Of course, the French are no strangers to Cork and Munster, and happily helped out the Irish in their fight for freedom over the centuries.
Although any accords will naturally be put to one side should they meet in the World Cup.
Filming for the campaign took place at various locations, including Charles Fort and The Bulman in Kinsale.
As well as in Cork city at The English Market where the Queen mingled among the stallholders.
The Farmgate Café, Crawford Art Gallery, Patrick Street and Market Lane are also featured on the movie.
While the crew also captured footage of musicians from the Cork Jazz Festival and of an oyster experience in Goldie.
Now the Corkonians, as well as being famous for their rugby acumen, are also known for their singy-songy voices.
And addressing all men as ‘Boy’, pronounced ‘Bahai’.
And while it can’t be absolutely verified if you do want to go truly native and talk like a Corkonian.
Then you’ll want to get dangled by your feet upside down to kiss the Blarney Stone too.
While you’ll never go wrong by greeting a Corkonian with Viva La Republique of Cork.
