I realize that this is a rather naive question and I think I already know the answer but I just wanted to confirm that I have got this correct.

My wife and I are both English by birth. We emigrated to Canada more than 30 years ago but when I retire sometime in the next couple of years we are seriously considering moving back to Europe. And Southern Ireland is currently our most likely choice.

Since we are English citizens I understand that, through the European Union, we have right of abode in Southern Ireland.

Is there anything that we need to do regarding informing authorities that we are planning on moving to Ireland or can we simply show up ? Of course, our belongings will have to go through some sort of customs processes but I cannot think of anything else.

Any comments would be much appreciated. Thanks for your help.

Just turn up.

Yep, just come.

Everyone's welcome to help us with the bail out!

Thanks for the responses folks. That was what I had thought but it is nice to have the comfort of your confirmations. I would have hated to show up and find that I had missed something.

I think technically your supposed to inform the Gardai within 24hrs of arriving but I've been here over 5 years now and haven't!

Never heard that one before. What's your source for this?

These days they won't see you unless you're carrying a box of doughnuts.
That's if you can find a Garda station that's open.

I don't know where I saw it, I know I saw it somewhere online when I first moved over. It's so long ago now I don't still have a link to the webby

It was pre Ireland joining the EU I think.

As you and your wife were born in England, you are both EU citizens; and free to live in any part of the EU.
A word of advice when coming to Ireland:
There is no such country as Southern Ireland.
There is the Republic of Ireland, and Northern Ireland.
Some people will take offence at you referring to the Republic of Ireland as Southern Ireland.
It would be like referring to the UK as the mainland.
You have to be mindful of the conflict history between the UK and Ireland, especially during the 30 years of The Troubles in Northern Ireland.
Things are improving here both in the North and Republic, but there are still many who would take offence to you saying Southern Ireland.
Personally I think the term: EU nanny super state would be a more apt name for Ireland these days.

Point taken. Thanks.

Parts of Donegal are further North than Northern Ireland.

I think that's what the kids refer to as a headshot.

Yes the county that the North didn't want.
The forgotten county is indeed further North than Northern Ireland.
Did you know that Cork is further South than Dublin?
Did you know that Galway is further West than Dublin?
It is good to clarify these points isn't it?
Forum users love a good geography lesson, its very useful.

It IS useful actually, for as someone who has only travelled around Ireland a few times, I wasnt aware of what nolanger said