2002 in Ireland

Events

January 1 – The Euro is introduced across the European Union. The people of Ireland adapt without any major confusion.
January 9 – Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev receives the Freedom of Dublin.
April 2 – Brendan Comiskey, the Catholic Bishop of Ferns resigns after criticism of his handling of abuses cases in the diocese.
April 5 – The first recruits of the new Police Service of Northern Ireland graduate.
May 17 – The Fianna Fáil-Progressive Democrats coalition is re-elected. It is the first government to be re-elected since 1969.
May 23 – Republic of Ireland player Roy Keane is sent home from the World Cup over an argument with manager Mick McCarthy and several players.
June 1 – The Republic of Ireland draw 1–1 with Cameroon in their opening game of the World Cup.
June 5 – The Republic of Ireland draw 1–1 with Germany in the World Cup.
June 11 – The Republic of Ireland beat Saudi Arabia 3–0 and qualify for the second round of the World Cup.
June 16 – The Republic of Ireland lose 3–2 on penalties to Spain.
October 11 – Geraldine Kennedy is appointed the first female editor of the Irish Times.
October 14 – As of midnight the Northern Ireland Assembley and the Executive are susepended by order of the Secretary of State.
October 19 – Irish voters accept the Nice Treaty in the second referendum held on the issue.

General Election – The Fianna Fáil-Progressive Democrats government is returned to power. Fianna Fáil achieve 80 seats, just 4 short of an overall majority. Fine Gael lose 23 seats and the Labour Party remain static. Increased support for Sinn Féin results in 4 extra TDs. Michael Noonan resigns as leader of Fine Gael and Ruairí Quinn resigns as leader of the Labour Party.

Football World Cup – The Republic of Ireland reach the last sixteen of the competition but lose out to Spain in a penalty shoot-out.
All-Ireland Hurling Final – Kilkenny 2–20, Clare 0–19.
All-Ireland Football Final – Armagh 1–12, Kerry 0–14