Belfast, Ireland – Robert Bryan, Executive Director of the Jamaica Local Organising Committee (LOC) says the “ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 is a big opportunity for Jamaica, as it presents us (the country) with a unique stage on which to show the world that today’s Jamaica means business”.

Speaking to a group of cricket supporters in Belfast last Tuesday night, he pledged that Irish fans will enjoy an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day next year – March 17 when that country’s team tackles Pakistan in a Group Stage encounter.

“Jamaica will play host to the Irish team, which will be participating in the ICC Cricket World Cup for the first time. We are aware that traditionally, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17th.  Next year, during the hosting of the world’s third-largest sporting event, Ireland will be playing Pakistan on St. Patrick’s Day in Jamaica.

“It therefore presents Jamaica with the opportunity to celebrate with you, one of the most treasured Irish holidays. We intend to make this is one big celebration that we can build on to start a relationship whereby Irish and Jamaican nationals can come together and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day,” said Bryan, who is leading a delegation, including officials from Jamaica Tourist Board and Air Jamaica, on a two-week trip to Ireland, London and India to boost support for the tournament being staged in the Caribbean next year.

The LOC executive gave an undertaking to Irish fans that Jamaica will be the place to be next March.

“We know of your ability to have a good time and host great parties. We, Jamaicans are second to none when it comes to having a good time, we are the masters. So we want you all to come and experience Jamaica – because once you go, you know,” declared Bryan.

There are already 600 Irish supporters booked to come to Jamaica for ICC CWC 2007 and they will be staying in the Ocho Rios area. Roy Torrens, manager of the Irish team, visited Jamaica in September to look at the facilities at which the Irish spectators will be staying.

The ICC Cricket World Cup will be held in nine Caribbean countries between March and April next year. Jamaica will host the Yellow Package of the tournament which will see the country hosting four Warm-up matches, the prestigious Opening Ceremony, six first-round Group Stage matches and a Semi-Final.