The Republic will be represented by T. Hanlon, Dr H. McGann, Dr G.M. Keaveney, R. Timlin, R. Boland, N. Toibin, and M. Moran (non-playing captain) in the home international bridge match (Camrose Trophy) versus England, on January 8th-9th, in Derby.
The standings after the first matches are - 1. Wales, 57 victory points; 2. The Republic, 53; 3. Northern Ireland, 37; 4. England, 33; 5. Scotland, 0, with match in hand.
The annual friendly international between the Republic and England will also be played in Derby on the same dates. The Republic's teams are: J. Moran, P. O'Neill, M.Keane, S. Dowling; Club: M. Kennefick, M. Atkinson, D. and B. Cotter; Officials: J. Cunningham, C. Pippet, P. Buckley, M.O'Connor.
The Cork and Dublin North congresses will take place on January 14th-16th, with the former in Acton's Hotel, Kinsale, and the latter in the Great Southern Hotel, Dublin Airport.
Cork programme - Friday, wine reception (7 p.m.), mixed, and novice pairs (7.30 p.m.); Saturday (2.15 p.m.), two-session major, and intermediate pairs; Sunday (11 a.m.) two-session major, and intermediate teams; open pairs throughout.
Among the prizes, the winners of the major pairs, and teams will receive £400, and the intermediate pairs champions will win a return flight to Amsterdam plus £100. Entries: Deirdre O'Driscoll (021543884).
Dublin details: Friday, Cork Dry Gin reception (6.30 p.m.), novice pairs, which require pre-entry, and gala open pairs, with prizes for many categories (7.30 p.m.).
Saturday (1.30 p.m.), four two-session pairs championships - major, confined (less than 30 national points), intermediate A, and B; Sunday (1 p.m.), two-session major and intermediate teams. Open pairs throughout. Entries: Margaret Kilbride (01-8401593).
The Waterford congress will be held in Jury's Hotel from January 7th to 9th. Entries: Peggy Holden (051855770).