GOLF A SINGLE GOVERNING BODY FOR IN IRELAND

A Proposal from the (GUI) and the Irish Ladies Golf Union (ILGU) GOLF IRELAND

Members of the Discussion Group (DG): Billy Black, GUI Past President (DG member: November 2015 – November 2016) Frank Bowen, GUI Past President Teresa Byrne, ILGU Finance Director Pat Finn, GUI CEO Sinead Heraty, ILGU CEO Brege McCarrick, ILGU Past Chair Iggy O’Muircheartaigh, GUI Chair (DG member: August 2016 – October 2017) John Power, GUI Independent Board Member (DG member: Joined November 2017) Ethel Ruddock, ILGU District Executive (DG member: Joined June 2016) Kevin Stevens, GUI Ulster Branch Executive Officer (DG member: Joined November 2016)

External Consultant & Facilitator: Jane Williams, Sia Partners Project Manager: Sarah Crowe

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To our Fellow Golfers

We are delighted to present here our proposal to form Golf Ireland. The Discussion Group came together in November 2015, with a brief from the two Unions to set out what a new governing body for might look like. Since then we have been listening to the views of club golfers all around Ireland, to representatives of clubs and to officials and staff members of both Unions. We have also looked at how golf is administered in other countries and we sought input from representatives of other sporting bodies in Ireland. We were also very mindful of the fact that Ireland is the only country left in the world to have two single gender governing bodies for golf. All of the conversations, submissions and presentations we have been part of have helped us to form a very clear view John Moloughney Vonnie Noonan of how we should shape our new governing body so that it GUI, President ILGU, President can deliver the best possible outcome for the future of golf in Ireland. We now firmly believe that the establishment of Golf Ireland gives us the best chance of securing a bright and prosperous future for golf. In this proposal, we set out in some detail how Golf Ireland will work in its organisational and regional structures, financial arrangements, legal structure, governance and how it will extend the level of services available to clubs. We also set out our proposals on how Golf Ireland will operate, including how it will promote and develop the game for golfers of all levels of ability, streamline the handicapping and course rating systems, set up a new and integrated calendar of events, recruit new volunteers and recognise better the invaluable work that volunteers do all around Ireland. We would like to thank everyone in the golf community and beyond for their frank and open engagement with this process over the past few years. It has been an immensely enjoyable and rewarding experience, and we have tried to capture the spirit of Iggy O’Muircheartaigh Clodagh Hopkins those contributions in this proposal, as much as possible. We GUI, Chair ILGU, Chair would also like to thank our fellow Discussion Group members for their incisive observations and for contributing to the excellent collaborative atmosphere in which we worked. It remains for us to formally ask you to give your support to the proposed establishment of Golf Ireland.

1 Acknowledgements

Championships: Aidan Marsden (Chair), Sandra Barnett, Rules: Tom Donnelly (Chair), Norman Bennett, Ger Henry, Linda Bradshaw, Barry Doyle, Paula Reynolds, Mark Wehrly Brian Hutchinson, Barbara O’Keeffe, Anne O’Sullivan

Game Development: Anne Brett (Chair), Tracey Farrell, Lucia Finance: Teresa Byrne (Chair), Frank Bowen, Sinead Heraty, Farrell, Richard Gormley, Diarmuid Logue, Cathal McConn, Michael Malone, Rollo McClure Teresa Thompson Future Club Formation: Donard MacSweeney (Chair), Club Services: Nick Agate (Chair), Gordon Campbell, Pauline Bailie, Grainne Clancy, Ger Ennis, Neil Kilgallon, Agnes Curley, Ben Headon, Beth Mason, Sean Moran, Barry Ramsay, Lesley Williams Goretti O’Connor Volunteerism: Terry Crothers (Chair), Anne Brett, Derek Ervine, High Performance: Alasdair Gibson (Chair), James Corcoran, Rosemary Hayes, Michael Heaney, Jane Joyce, Henry Lee. David Kearney, Cian Hoban, Clodagh Hopkins, Neil Manchip, The GUI and the ILGU would also like to thank all affiliate Denise McCarthy Golf Clubs and members, Union Officials and Staff who Communications: Sarah Crowe, Alan Kelly, contributed to the consultation and feedback process. The Carla Reynolds input received was invaluable and enabled us to continue developing and testing emerging ideas. Also, a special thanks Course Rating/ Handicapping: Patricia Jordan (Chair), to the following for their knowledge and input in a range Jerome Clancy, Tom Jones, Jim Mooney, Nora Murphy, of areas pertinent to the project: Amanda Bennett (Fair Play Carla Reynolds Enterprises), Tom Craig ( Union), Alan Kirk (Legal Organisational Structure: Frank Bowen, Pat Finn and NI), Michael Doyle (Arthur Cox) and Frank O’Riordan (Legal). Sinead Heraty The ILGU and the GUI are also grateful to Deloitte (Accounting and Tax) who offered their ongoing services throughout the project, and to Matheson (Legal) for their expert legal view.

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Contents

4. Making the Transition to Golf Ireland 17 1. The Case for Golf Ireland 4 Creating the Structure 17 Why we need Golf Ireland 4 Creating the Organisation 17 The Idea of Golf Ireland and how it Developed 4 Consultation Process 5 A. Historical Financial Schedules 18 The ‘Dream’: what we want in a National Governing Body 5 GUI Income and Expenditure, 2016 and 2017 18 The Strategy for Golf Ireland 6 ILGU Income and Expenditure, 2016 and 2017 18 The Benefits that Golf Ireland will bring 7 CGI Income and Expenditure, 2016 and 2017 19 Honouring the Heritage of ILGU and GUI 7 GUI, ILGU and CGI: Combined Income and Expenditure 2016 and 2017 19 2. The Model for Golf Ireland 8 Membership Numbers 20 Structure and Culture of Golf Ireland 8 Historical Balance Sheets 20 Golf Ireland and the Clubs 9 B. Presidential Rotation in Golf Ireland 21 The Governance of Golf Ireland 10 The office of President of Golf Ireland 21 Club Voting in Golf Ireland 10 Eight-year Cycle 21 Financial Management of Golf Ireland 11 Honorary Life Members 21 Projected Income and Expenditure of Golf Ireland 11 Communications 13 C. The Board of Golf Ireland 22 Composition of the Board 22 3. Operations of Golf Ireland 14 Rotation of Regional Board members 22 Volunteers 14 GenderBalance on the Board 22 Developing the Game 14 D. Golf Ireland Staffing Structure 23 Handicapping and Course Rating 14  Championships 15 E. Golf Ireland Regional Executives 23 Rules 15 Elections to the Regional Executives 24 High Performance 15 Support teams for Regional Zones 24 Ensuring Environmental Sustainability 15 Rotation of the Regional Executives 24

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1. The Case for Golf Ireland

needs of modern Ireland and there is a substantial risk to the Why we need Golf Ireland popularity of the sport. Change is needed at national, local and With our strong roots that go back to the end of the 19th club level to meet the challenges facing our sport. century, golf in Ireland has so much to celebrate and be proud A single governing body, Golf Ireland, is an essential first of. We have a long sporting and social tradition that has become step. a part of life in every corner of Ireland. Our courses are among the finest and most challenging in the world, and we have all been inspired by the exploits of some of our best Irish golfers The Idea of Golf Ireland and their victories in the world’s major competitions. But as well as celebrating the great successes of golf in and how it Developed Ireland, we must continually search for ways to bring the The idea of bringing Ireland’s two golf Unions together to game forward, to attract new members and to reinvigorate our establish a single governing body for golf in Ireland began a clubs. The success of Irish golfers – male and female – on the number of years ago on the initiative of the Boards of both international stage can make it easy to believe that the game Unions. In November 2015, the detailed work of thinking this of golf on the island of Ireland is in good shape. Certainly, the through was given to a Discussion Group made up of four elite player programmes run by the GUI and the ILGU over members of each union, with an independent facilitator and many years have been very successful. However, when we look a project manager. The Discussion Group also commissioned elsewhere at the game in Ireland, we see that there are many assistance from volunteers with relevant expertise, who worked questions we need to ask. collaboratively in working groups (which included Union officials and club members) to develop proposals on specific Meeting the needs of modern Ireland elements of the proposed new body. As we move deeper into the 21st century, we need a Good, collaborative working relationships were established governing body that can extend its focus beyond rules and among members of the Discussion Group, whose main aim was competitions and look more widely at regulation, promotion to allow time for the necessary insights and for understanding and development of the game, as well as meeting public to emerge and grow into a strong, coherent and well-considered expectations in relation to all aspects of modern life – in proposal. particular, diversity, gender and inclusivity. Our current structure of two Unions – one for men and one Learning from the experience of other countries and for women – struggles to meet the demands and expectations other sports of modern society and is confusing for members and affiliate The Discussion Group considered the experience of other clubs. In practical terms, we know that future funding from golfing organisations, principally in the UK, and it also sought Sport will be contingent upon golf having input from other sporting bodies in Ireland on their structures a mixed gender governance structure, in line with Sport UK and the development of their single governing body. norms. In the medium-term, there may be similar issues with and with sponsors. Wide consultation with the golfing community Facing up to declining participation From the beginning, the Discussion Group also sought the views of the wider golfing community on the development Those of us who play golf know what a wonderful, healthy of the proposed new body. Those consulted included clubs, outdoor activity it is – a ‘game for life’ for body and mind. We branch/district officials, Union staff and focus groups of golfers. also know what a great social outlet it is, where we can meet The feedback received made a considerable contribution to the and compete, no matter what our stage in life. The reality Discussion Group’s vision of what the new body needs to look is, however, that club membership peaked in 2004/2005 at like. around 220,000 and has declined steadily since, with a drop Particular emphasis was given to ensuring that all key of approximately 40,000 in overall memberships. At the same stakeholders – including clubs, golfers, volunteers and funders time the average age of participants has continued to rise, as – were kept well informed on the progress of the project. The the participation of under 50s and under 18s has declined. One Boards of the two Unions were also briefed regularly by their third of golf clubs in Ireland have no junior girls, and 5% have members of the Discussion Group. no junior boys. It is easy to attribute the decline in membership to the Moving towards a proposal economic crisis, but the decline had already started by 2008, Early in the process, the Discussion Group developed a and studies here and in other developed golf countries framework that identified the key elements of a National have found that time availability is the main cause of falling Governing Body and how it might be established. For each participation. Modern time-poor two-earner families are no of these elements, a work stream was defined and assigned to longer attracted to golf and are turning to other sports in search a working group, each of which produced a report and set of of healthy, outdoor activities. Golf as a game is not meeting the

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recommendations on their assigned element and presented and inevitable. There is both anxiety and excitement about these to the Discussion Group. Among the key elements its potential to address falling membership numbers that reviewed in this way were: golf clubs have suffered over the last number of years. It also • The future legal and regulatory structure of a new governing revealed concerns that some people have that certain aspects body. of golf that are important to them might be lost – for example, • The basis for the Statement of Strategy to guide the first five competitions that have a strong resonance among golfers. years of the new body. There is also hope that Golf Ireland can address issues such as behaviours towards some categories of golfers, governance of • Club formation and the nature of their affiliation to the new handicapping cheating and the public perception of golf below body. the elite level. Because of the significance of the structure to • The role of volunteers and their development. golfers and clubs, we decided to research attitudes to different • The delivery of a world class Rules system, in keeping with aspects of this with a large sample of clubs. A workshop was the high standards set by the two Unions. held in Westmanstown at which issues of structure • A modern and efficient Championships and inter-club were teased out, with outcomes showing: structure for all golfers. • An openness to change away from the current structures. • Maintenance of a High Performance system that produces • A recognition that neither of the existing structures in the players who can continue to compete on the world stage. two Unions is perfect. • Developing the game and catering more for a range of • An identity attachment to competition names. abilities, while still focusing on club service provision. • A willingness to consider proposals that will support a strong • The current Handicapping and Course Rating Systems, and future for golf. the journey to be made towards a single Handicapping and The consultation process heard from a wide spectrum of Course Rating System based on best-known international opinions and views. Every club was given an opportunity to practice. participate, and all staff and Union officials were similarly In tandem with these developments, consultations included. Although there was significant variance in the views continued to take place with clubs, officials, golfers and the two expressed on a few core topics, overall there is a large middle Unions on the emerging proposal. ground on all areas.

Where we are now: decision time The current proposal to establish Golf Ireland as the new The ‘Dream’: what we want in governing body for golf on the island of Ireland summarises the a National Governing Body position at which the Boards of both Unions have arrived. The proposal is now being presented to the affiliate clubs In consultation with clubs, officials and the Boards of both of both Unions through a series of communications briefing Unions, a ‘dream’ was developed of what the new national sessions. governing body for golf could be. Golf Ireland will commit Affiliate clubs of the ILGU and the GUI will be asked to vote to the following, while always ensuring transparent and on a series of resolutions to legally constitute Golf Ireland at accountable practices throughout the organisation. separately convened EGMs of the GUI and the ILGU on 17th November 2018. In its administrative structures, the new national In effect, there will be a series of contingent resolutions to governing body… formally adopt the proposal to form Golf Ireland, to establish it as • Will be one body for all golfers. a company limited by guarantee, and to provide for the eventual • Will carry out all of the work currently done by GUI, ILGU winding up of the ILGU, the GUI and CGI* (Confederation of Golf and CGI – including handicapping and course ratings, in Ireland), following a transition period, led by a Transitions Team. organising championships and inter-club events, high performance and international matches, providing support to *The CGI was established in 2013 by the GUI, ILGU and the PGA (Irish Region) clubs, managing finance and game development. to respond to the challenges facing the game. The CGI compliments the work of the • Will represent golf in the wider world and secure a greater unions as well as providing a combined approach to certain key strategic areas in the profile and access to funding for golf. future development of golf in Ireland. • Will recruit people with appropriate skills, with due regard for diversity and gender balance. Consultation Process • Will be open, transparent, accountable and democratic in its governance structure. Detailed consultation has been undertaken at points during the process, to obtain the views of clubs, Union officials, staff In its commitment to equality, the new national members and focus groups of golfers. The initial consultation started with a blank sheet, to obtain the ideas of all participants, governing body… without bias or influence, on what an ideal governing body • Will lead by example, adopting the Governance Code: A Code of should be. In later stages, the views of clubs and branch/district Practice for Good Governance of Community, Voluntary and Charitable officials on key elements of Golf Ireland were obtained through Organisations in Ireland (taking cognisance of the UK Code) and briefing and feedback groups. ensuring that equality is a core value within Golf Ireland. The extensive consultation process used well-attested • Will be open and welcoming to all potential golfers, research tools and techniques to obtain accurate feedback and particularly encouraging juniors, who will be protected, to allow difficult questions to be explored. Because of this it welcomed and treated with respect. has provided the process with robust insight and input, and it • Will seek to ensure that clubs welcome golfers irrespective has also had a strong and positive influence on the design and of gender, sexual orientation, age, or any of the grounds for development of the governing body. discrimination prohibited in legislation. The consultation process has shown that clubs and many officials see the establishment of Golf Ireland as both necessary • Will focus strongly on club golfers and seek to redress the perception that golf is too taken-up with elite players.

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• Will seek to ensure that clubs treat all members fairly and Delivering on the strategy: high-level goals that rights and entitlements are determined by membership To deliver on this strategy, the following are the high-level categories and not by gender. goals of Golf Ireland for the first five years of its existence. • Will work to remove barriers to participation, including the Clearly the successful achievement of these goals will require perceived expense of the game and the lack of facilities for the support and co-operation of clubs. Golf Ireland will educate people with disability. and support clubs wanting to modernise their governance structures whilst accepting that clubs are autonomous bodies In its commitment to develop the game, the new and no change will therefore be imposed. national governing body… • Will moderate the emphasis on competition and encourage 1. Establish Golf Ireland, taking over the roles and more fun in golf. responsibilities of its predecessors, the ILGU, the GUI • Will work with clubs to develop policies and programmes to and the CGI, smoothly and efficiently, stepping into support ongoing participation among younger ‘time-poor’ the role as the unified voice of golf, speaking for all adults, as well as among youths and juveniles. golfers equally.

In its work with affiliate clubs, the new national 2. Provide competitive opportunities for golfers of all governing body… abilities at regional, national and international level. • Will be a governing body that is connected from top to bottom, acting always in the interests of its affiliate clubs and 3. Support clubs through enhanced and more extensive golfers. support programmes, tailored to the needs of different • Will communicate well with members clearly, accurately, types of clubs, delivered at regional level by dedicated consistently and authoritatively. and skilled volunteers and staff.

4. Govern the game so that all golfers can be certain of The Strategy for Golf Ireland fairness. To make the dream of a fully-functioning, modern and efficient national governing body for golf a reality, Golf Ireland 5. Promote the game of golf, attracting funding so that will take the following text as its Statement of Strategy for its the game’s fun and health benefits, as well as its first five years: competitive position, are seen and attract increasing numbers of participants.

Golf Ireland will successfully establish itself as the 6. Grow and develop the game so that it has more players National Governing Body for golf on the island of who are members of clubs, is successful at all levels and Ireland. It will do this by building on the 125 years of is seen as an attractive game for life that is growing, tradition and development of its two predecessors, the vibrant and respected. GUI and the ILGU – the two oldest golfing unions in the world. • It will administer golf in Ireland so that golf will be Golf Ireland will seek to meet the above goals in cooperation played fairly and in keeping with the rules. with clubs and golfers by: • Putting in place a Board-led structure based on a clearly • It will provide development services to its affiliate defined and developed governance process where ultimate clubs to support them in providing the facilities and authority resides in the affiliate clubs. the sense of belonging that golf provides to its players and supporters. • Operating from a central headquarters with, as part of its governance process, devolved authority and functions to four • It will set out a description of the new organisation’s regions. The functions in each region will be supported by a desired culture and how it will manifest itself to the trained and properly resourced staff and volunteer structure golfing community. which will allow for an appropriate level of local democracy. • It will run attractive championships for golfers of all • Promoting equality, openness and accessibility within golf in abilities, with the support of its clubs and volunteers. Ireland. • It will promote the game so that its attractiveness as • Recognising that the long-term health of golf as a sport a game for life is widely understood. It will support is very dependent on strong and vibrant clubs operating players of all abilities to reach their potential through not just in urban areas but right across the country. It its relationship with the PGA and through its own will therefore develop a range of club-centred services at development programmes. national and regional level to support clubs in all aspects of • It will grow and develop the game to secure its long- their operation. A clear road map of how to access all such term future and standing. services will be available to clubs, as well as a process by • It will be the voice of golf at national and international which individual golfers would be made aware of the role and level, ensuring that Irish golf is resourced and function of Golf Ireland. perceived appropriately. • Identifying the issues and perceptions that have hindered • It will do all of this through its skilled and dedicated the progress of the game and developing programmes to volunteers and staff, with the resources provided to address these. Golf is unique in the opportunity it offers to it by clubs and funding organisations, in a fair and older adults to enjoy the mental and physical benefits of equitable way, as a modern and efficient organisation participation in outdoor sport. that golfers deserve.

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The Benefits that Golf Better … for attracting capital funding While the ILGU and GUI have enjoyed good relationships Ireland will bring with government funding agencies and international golfing bodies, golf in Ireland has never been represented by a single With the establishment of Golf Ireland, the game of golf in voice, resulting in sub optimal support for golf clubs in sports Ireland will have an all-inclusive governing body for the first capital funding. Golf Ireland will be positioned to speak on time. behalf of golf in Ireland and is committed to lobbying on behalf No single entity has ever been truly responsible for the of golf to improve these levels of support. game of golf in Ireland. GUI and ILGU were established in the early 1890s for the purpose of organising championships and Better… for attracting commercial partners international matches and developing the game. Society has Golf Ireland will also be much more attractive to changed hugely in the past 125 years and it is important for golf commercial partners and sponsors. A single governing body for to have a modern governing body that can respond better to the men and women is easier to deal with and fits much better with needs of affiliate clubs today. the aims and values of companies today. Better… for the development and promotion of golf Better… for equality Having a single governing body will make it considerably Countries with a single governing body for golf tend to have easier for golf to project the clear and consistent message that a much healthier ratio of female to male members, reflecting golf is healthy, challenging and fun; and that it can be enjoyed the environment of equality promoted by the governing body. by men and women of all ages; by boys and girls; and by elite For example, in Germany, women account for approximately players, social players, average players and beginners. 37% of all golfers, in the Scandinavian countries it is 28% and in Golf Ireland will promote golf as an integrated family- Ireland we are at 22%. Golf Ireland is committed to driving up oriented sport with wide appeal, and one that can compete participation and membership of women to European norms. successfully to be one of Ireland’s most popular leisure activities. Better… for the image of the game Better… for clubs Achieving media coverage for amateur golf is difficult, particularly nationally, and too often the media focus on the Golf Ireland will be better for clubs on many fronts. historical gender difference rather than positive aspects of the game. Golf Ireland will actively and confidently promote the • Clubs will have their voices heard as active members of the positive aspects and challenge negative stereotyping of the governing body for golf in Ireland. With the current GUI game when it occurs. and ILGU structures, clubs do not have the opportunity to provide input on matters such as golf development, promotion and club support. Honouring the Heritage • Club support will be a core function of Golf Ireland. This will include support in the areas of governance, of ILGU and GUI business planning, membership growth and retention, As we move forward into a bright new future with Golf communications, marketing and so on... Ireland, it is appropriate that we pause and reflect on the long • Clubs will have the option to retain their current structures years of achievement of the ILGU and the GUI. They are the or to move to a single club structure for male and female epitome of Irish golf as we have known it, and the rich golfing members. Golf Ireland will work with clubs to develop a heritage that we all enjoy is a tribute to the men and women range of efficient management structures to ensure the future who have steered the two Unions over the last 125 years. success of the game at club level. We propose that we honour the rich heritage that the two Unions have left us by preserving the golf museum in their honour at the Golf Ireland Headquarters at . This is a proposal that we sincerely hope the golf community will heartily endorse. In addition, the names of the Irish Ladies Golf Union and the Golfing Union of Ireland will be enshrined in the Memorandum and Articles of Association of Golf Ireland and the organisations’ names and logos will remain in place on the many existing trophies and pennants that adorn the walls of the clubhouses throughout Ireland.

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2. The Model for Golf Ireland

organisational structure. We formed the view that the ability Structure and Culture of Golf Ireland to support clubs should be paramount in determining the organisational structure of Golf Ireland. Legal structure The proposed structure is centred on efficient and effective Golf Ireland will be incorporated as a company limited by central and regional administrative structures, together with guarantee (CLG). This is an ideal structure for a sporting or not- agreed funding for regions and subdivision into zones for for-profit organisation as it provides legal certainty around the competition purposes. company’s structure and responsibilities while also providing Three of the four regions (Leinster, Munster and Ulster) enough flexibility for a large and disparate organisation to work currently have good or adequate office accommodation that can efficiently. transfer into Golf Ireland as regional headquarters. In the case A Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association of , we will consider proposals for the purchase or will set out the formal legal structure of the new organisation long-term lease of a suitable premises. and will be supported by a set of stand-alone regulations and conditions of competition. The culture of Golf Ireland Following its formation, Golf Ireland will adopt the Simply put, culture is ‘how we do things in this organisation.’ Governance Code: a Code of Practice for Good Governance of Community, It is intangible and often not consciously recognised, but it does Voluntary and Charitable Organisations in Ireland and will take frame the values, behaviours, decision making, efficiency and cognisance of the UK Code. effectiveness of every organisation. As we tried to define our ‘dream’ of what a new governing Organisational and regional structure body would look like, we took the opportunity to consult For administrative purposes, Golf Ireland will consist of widely to identify the cultural attributes that it would be four regions, based on the four provinces. Each region may be important to retain, and what we could safely leave behind. Golf subdivided into two, four or eight zones, depending on the Ireland will bring the best cultural elements of the two existing density of clubs in the region and the distances between them. organisations together while also integrating new ideas and new The idea behind the zones is to help reduce travel distances ways of doing things that can help enhance the attractiveness of for inter-club matches. In the first instance, the zones will be golf into the future. recommended by the Transitions Team in consultation with the Examples of some of the cultural traits that Golf Ireland GUI and ILGU volunteers from within each region. Thereafter, will hope to foster include evenness of regard for all golfers each Regional Executive Committee may amend the number and clear and good quality communications within golf and and/or boundaries of zones, subject to approval from the Board within the wider society. The elements of Golf Ireland’s of Golf Ireland. culture will emerge as it gets to work – for example, in a strong Historically in Ireland, most sporting organisations are culture of service to the clubs, in a clear agenda of equality subdivided by province and people feel an emotional bond to and inclusiveness, in the efficiency of its operations and in the their province. This was clearly expressed by a number of those openness of its governance practices. who attended first and second rounds of consultation, and also The strategic plan for Golf Ireland will set out a description by those who responded to an Omnibus survey, which was of the new organisation’s desired culture and how it will completed by Union and golf club officials in late 2017. manifest itself to the golfing community. The proposed organisational structure is based on extensive consultation with officials, staff and affiliate club members and also on the work of a working group dedicated solely to

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received from the consultation process throughout 2016 and Golf Ireland and the Clubs 2017. Essentially, the services that Golf Ireland will provide How Golf Ireland will work with clubs to clubs are the services that the clubs told us were most The club is the key building block on which golf is important to them – particularly support on membership issues, developed and which establishes and maintains the relationship governance, equality issues and competitions/handicapping. with golfers. The current range of services provided by CGI will be retained, Clubs will be at the core of Golf Ireland’s emerging strategy. expanded and delivered through the regional structure. As There are 395 GUI fee paying clubs and 374 ILGU fee paying currently with CGI, skilled staff will be based in the regions, clubs, as per the end of 2017. All clubs currently affiliated to the and delivery of services will help ensure the strengthening of two unions will automatically be affiliated to Golf Ireland on its relationships between Golf Ireland and the clubs. establishment date. Golf Ireland will also support clubs by promoting the Golf Ireland recognises that the affiliate clubs are game of golf more widely and by positioning the game more individually constituted bodies and is committed to working positively in the changing social and economic context, in partnership with clubs to develop the game of golf and to emphasising particularly the benefits of golf as a healthy strengthen clubs. outdoor activity that people of all ages and all skill levels can Golf Ireland will work closely and support clubs in a number enjoy. of ways: Golf Ireland will also explore ways of making golf more attractive to the estimated 40,000 golfers who are no longer Support in operational matters members of affiliate clubs. • Leading on the development and implementation of handicapping. Principles for clubs in Golf Ireland • Providing systems supports with key suppliers and with Successful vibrant clubs are central to the growth of the systems for managing membership, timesheets, competitions game of golf, and our affiliate clubs will be the foundation of and handicapping. Golf Ireland. For the future, we want to increase the number of golfers • Developing policies on matters such as prizes. playing the game, and the way to do that is for golf to become more engaging with, and attractive to, younger players. This will Training support involve Golf Ireland working to promote the game at a national • Developing induction training materials for new committee level, but it will also require clubs to become more innovative members to increase the effectiveness of club committees. across the range of their activities at local level. Golf Ireland • Providing training to Vice Captains, Secretaries, and to supports the promotion of the following fourteen principles and Competition officers. that clubs can adopt as part of their strategy to grow and • Developing and expanding existing training and education advance the game in their locality. programmes for clubs. 1. Position your club in the top five sports of choice in Support in communications and promotion of the game your community. • Assisting clubs to attract new adult and junior members. • Helping clubs to become more resilient and responsive to 2. Govern your club under a modern democratic inclusive members’ needs. management structure. • Providing clubs with communications materials that present a better and more positive image of the game. 3. Prioritise both adult and junior membership growth • Supporting clubs in the development of their social media and retention to ensure the future of your club. strategies (including training). 4. Promote the integration of golf administration, General management support including competitions and handicapping. • Developing a governance code for golf and governance guides for clubs (ROI & UK (NI)). 5. Promote inclusivity and equality for all members. • Supporting clubs to implement best management practices. 6. Ensure compliance with a range of regulatory • Helping affiliate clubs as they transition to the new Golf requirements. Ireland organisational and regional structures, through basic changes to their constitution regarding affiliation to Golf Ireland. Current club constitutions make reference to either 7. Adopt and implement the Code of Ethics and Good the GUI or ILGU and their conditions of affiliation and there Practice for Children’s Sport* and Golf’s Safeguarding will be a requirement to change references from ILGU and Policy.† GUI to Golf Ireland. Several ladies’ clubs will be moving from a District Structure to a Provincial Structure which will 8. Be fair and consistent in implementing the CONGU require a change to constitutions. UHS. • Assisting affiliate clubs who wish to make the journey towards a new club model, with best practice guidance 9. Comply with the as approved by the R&A. provided by Golf Ireland. 10. Work closely with Golf Ireland in implementing their Services to clubs: a key focus for Golf Ireland policies and practices for golf clubs. Golf Ireland’s plan for club services is based on the recommendations of the Club Services working group, which 11. Attract members of all ages with appropriate skills to are derived from the information gathered in the working become club volunteers. group’s service preferences surveys, as well as on feedback

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implementation. The volunteer recruitment process will seek 12. Encourage high levels of participation and integration people with particular skills and competencies and will be in club activities and competitions for all members. underpinned by Golf Ireland’s gender representation policy. * Appointed in this context is intended to mean ‘not a current Director of the Board of 13. Provide a comprehensive competition schedule which Golf Ireland, a current member of a Regional Executive and is subject to a vote at the meets the needs of golfers of all handicaps, genders and AGM of Golf Ireland.’ ages. See Appendix B in relation to the presidential rotation, 14. Continuously review coaching and playing also: page 21 opportunities and assess them to ensure they are Appendix C in relation to the Board composition, providing all members with appropriate opportunities rotation and gender balance, page 22 to participate in the game. Appendix D in relation to proposed staffing structure, page 23 Appendix E in relation to the regional executive * Published jointly by The Irish Sports Council and the Sports Council for Northern composition, rotation and gender balance, pages 23-24 Ireland (currently known as Sport Ireland & Sport Northern Ireland) † Published jointly by GUI, ILGU, the PGA in Ireland and CGI Club Voting in Golf Ireland The Governance of Golf Ireland Most golf clubs in Ireland have separate men’s and women’s clubs/sections, as were required by the GUI and ILGU. In the Golf Ireland will be a company limited by guarantee with a interest of unity, Golf Ireland has decided to treat such clubs as membership consisting of affiliate golf clubs and honorary life a single member club. members situated on the island of Ireland. This means that, in normal circumstances, the delegates The above members will be entitled to attend general representing the overall club will receive and cast the votes at meetings of Golf Ireland, including the Annual General Golf Ireland meetings. Meeting, at which the business of the organisation will While the voting system set out below may seem unusual, be discussed and financial reports, rules changes and the the GUI and ILGU feel that it is important to ensure that appointment of a Board of Directors will be voted upon. women’s golf has a clear voice within Golf Ireland. To achieve The Board will be comprised of thirteen Directors, all this, the voting system provides for a splitting of votes where volunteers, including an appointed Chair who will serve a four- the men and women within a club cannot reach an agreement year term, a President (one year), a President Elect (one year), a on what way the club should vote on a motion or in an election. nominee from each of the regions and six other directors. It is anticipated that the overall club will agree on how to vote The Board will have various subcommittees including, but in the vast majority of cases. not limited to: During consultation with clubs on the Golf Ireland project, • Game Development many club representatives expressed a desire to move towards a • Club Support one club model, without a men’s and women’s section, where all • Championships and Tournaments membership categories would be open to both genders. When • High Performance a club opts to move towards such a structure, the provision to split the vote will no longer be necessary. • Rules of Golf and Amateur Status • Handicapping, Venues and Fixtures Voting System • Junior Golf Two men and two women from each affiliate club will be • Audit and Risk/Finance entitled to attend General Meetings of Golf Ireland and of its Regions. The minimum number of representative(s) from an • Nominations, Governance and Compliance affiliate club is one and this person may be male or female. • Selection Committees Single Gender Clubs The strategy of Golf Ireland will be determined by the Board and implemented with the support of volunteers by 26 clubs are solely affiliated to the GUI, as they only have an executive team comprising a Chief Executive and the male members and five clubs are solely affiliated to the ILGU, as heads of the core departments. This will include, but not be they only have female members. The voting system, as detailed limited to, Game Development, Club Support, Championships in the following table will apply to all Golf Ireland affiliate and Tournaments, High Performance, Commercial, and clubs, including single gender clubs. Communications. One Club To aid the implementation of its strategy, Golf Ireland will have four regions each of which will have a Regional Executive Golf Ireland will recognize that some clubs have already of fourteen members, all volunteers. The Regional Manager made a journey to a one club structure, where separate men’s will report to the CEO of Golf Ireland and on a day-to-day basis and ladies sections do not exist. For these clubs, the number of will work closely with the Regional Executive. To ensure good votes allocated to that club will be dependent on the number of communication, quarterly meetings will take place between club members, as per the following table. the Chair and CEO of Golf Ireland and the Regional Managers, Clubs with separate Men’s and Ladies’ Sections Chairs and Secretaries of the four Regions. The four regions will receive notes from the National Board meetings. The regions In the majority of affiliate clubs, two separate sections do will be funded by Golf Ireland. exist – both men’s and ladies’ clubs. The voting system in the The Golf Ireland affiliate clubs in each region will meet following table applies to all clubs, however, male and female annually at a regional meeting to vote on notices of motion club members must endeavor to agree in advance of the AGM or on matters relevant to their region and to elect local officials. EGM what way the club is voting. When agreement is reached Golf Ireland will rely heavily on elected and appointed* on what way to cast the vote(s), the appointed Voting Club volunteers to both determine its strategies and to assist in their Delegate may cast all vote(s) on behalf of the club.

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If the male and female club members cannot agree on Foreign exchange how to cast their vote(s), they must inform Golf Ireland Golf Ireland will have income and expenditure in two main at least one week in advance of the relevant meeting. Golf currencies, euro and sterling. These currencies trade openly Ireland will organise for the club vote to be split with the and change their value relative to each other daily. With the larger section receiving two-thirds of the vote and the smaller uncertainty of Brexit, the variations in value may become section receiving one-third, on the stipulation that the larger greater. In general, though, there is not a significant gap section must exceed 60% of the membership to receive two- currently between sterling income and sterling expenditure thirds of the vote. If it does not, then the vote will be split on an annual basis. Golf Ireland will manage its operations 50/50. prudently and take its fiduciary duty seriously: • Receipts and payments in each currency will be quantified on an annual basis to identify any exposure and the volatility of Number of club members Number of votes receipts and payments.

<150 1 • An assessment of the extent of currency exposure of Golf Ireland and the options for management will be presented (including specialist advice if required) to the Board for 151–300 2 consideration. These options might include hedging, buying or selling forward on behalf of Golf Ireland. 301–500 3 Possible sale of ILGU Head Office at Furze Road, 501–700 4 Sandyford While the current ILGU office at Furze Road will be >700 5 included in the Golf Ireland Balance Sheet, significant consideration is being given to the sale of this property. This is being considered in the interest of maintaining just one head office (the current GUI offices at Carton). The property is held Financial Management of Golf Ireland at a value of €1.5m on the balance sheet of the ILGU, having been revalued at this amount in 2012. It is expected that in the The accounting period for Golf Ireland will be from 1 event of a sale, the value realised will be at least that of the January to 31 December. This will apply to the head office and current net book value of the asset. The proceeds of this sale all of the regions. will be used for any future move or expansion of Golf Ireland Financial administration will be managed centrally. This Headquarters, or for other appropriate capital expenditure. will include management of contracts (sponsorship, property, Savings associated with the disposal of this property are service, procurement, staff, insurance, etc.), staff salaries and estimated at an annual amount of €84k (Rates €16k, Insurance pensions, processing of volunteer and staff expense claims, €33k, Repairs, Maintenance and Cleaning €35k). cash-flow management, banking, etc. The Regional Treasurer will liaise closely with Golf Ireland’s Finance Director in the preparation, management and control Projected Income and of regional finances. Each region shall submit budgets on an annual basis for approval by the Board. Once regional budgets Expenditure of Golf Ireland are agreed, the region will be provided with the necessary financial resources to manage its own business including the Golf Ireland will be funded by the combined resources of management of its own regional bank account. the current organisations, GUI, ILGU and CGI. Regional accounts will be prepared for and presented to the The business model will be one that supports the objects of regional AGMs. All regional and head office accounts will be Golf Ireland as laid out in the Memorandum of Association. combined for the purpose of representing the national financial Golf Ireland will operate on a break-even basis. One-off costs position, which will be presented in Euro currency. (such as legal, rebranding, staff relocation, infrastructural, Year-end accounts will be audited by an externally appointed system changes/upgrades) associated with the establishment of Golf Ireland are not included but will be provided for in a auditor. separate Transition Budget. The following tables project the income and expenditure of Golf Ireland for the first 12 months of it’s operation. The 2017 actual income and expenditure figures in these tables are aggregate figures for GUI, ILGU and CGI.

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Income / projected income summary

Description 2017 Actual Year 1 Increase/ Notes Golf Ireland (Decrease)

Member subscriptions €4,099,395 €3,928,278 (€171,117) Fee equalisation – See note 1 below

LGU Capitation Fee (€101,512) €101,512 2017 last applicable year

Grants €1,223,846 €1,268,176 €44,330 Increase in Sport NI funding primarily

Sponsorship €237,741 €272,500 €34,759 Team Ireland Pro Am €50k – contra in expenses

Competitions €509,248 €510,000 €752 Fee Equalisation under review

Golfnet Cards and €226,211 €220,000 (€6,211) Reduced advertising income Advertising

Other €94,426 €40,000 (€54,426) Interest receivable, other income

Total €6,289,355 €6,238,954 (€50,401)

NOTES

1: Annual Subscription There will be a single annual subscription which will be paid by each Club, based on the number of Home Club members to Golf Ireland from an agreed future date. The adult fee will be €24 for Clubs in the Euro region and £20 for Clubs in the Sterling region. The junior fee will be €5 for Clubs in the Euro region and £3.50 for Clubs in the Sterling region. All of these amounts will be fixed for years 1 & 2 of Golf Ireland.

Description 2017 Actual Year 1 Increase/ Notes Golf Ireland (Decrease)

Administration €2,427,541 €2,612,994 (€185,453) See note 2 below

Office Expenses €290,624 €310,387 (€19,763) See note 3 below

General Expenses €993,650 €908,500 €85,150 See note 4 below

Competitions €620,208 €670,000 (€49,792) Estimate based on last 2 years

International Matches etc. €476,029 €500,000 (€23,971) Estimate based on last 2 years

Coaching €762,010 €850,000 (€87,990) Estimate based on last 2 years

Depreciation €284,031 €75,019 €209,012 See note 5 below

Team Ireland €226,365 €280,000 (€53,635) Contra Sponsorship above

Total €6,080,458 €6,206,899 (€126,441)

Expenditure / projected expenditure summary

NOTES 2: Administration Staffing synergies will be achieved in some areas but are offset by incremental staffing to provide enhanced services to clubs as strongly articulated at consultation meetings. Meeting/travel expense savings above relate primarily to the replacement of two separate bodies by a single Board.

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3: Office expenses Communications Increase shown is primarily due to a re-adjustment of the Carton Management fee. Estimated annual savings of €84k will How well Golf Ireland manages its communications will be realised on the sale of ILGU HO at Furze Road (not included be a major determinant of how successful we are at building a in these projections). positive and efficient organisation that serves the game of golf in Ireland and looks after the needs of our affiliate clubs and 4: General expenses members. Savings of €210k associated with reduced insurance, audit In serving golf better, we need to have strategies for fees, computer support, bank charges & other one-off amounts fostering positive media coverage of golf, emphasising the are offset by a new Marketing budget of €50k and an increased health and wider social benefits that the game brings. We will provision of €75k for staging EGA events. also need to ensure that day-to-day communications between Golf Ireland and its clubs and members are done in an efficient, 5: Depreciation clear and engaging manner. Depreciation charge reduction is due to prior write off of the Among the communication practices that Golf Ireland will Golfnet website & centralised database in 2018/2019 plus GUI implement are: National Academy completely written off in 2017 and assuming • More direct communication with clubs and members no substantial investment in the immediate future. through a dedicated Club Communications and Consultation Officer. 6: Other • Training for clubs in PR, social media and marketing. All property will transfer to Golf Ireland at net book value • Development of a strategic marketing plan to communicate held on the individual Balance Sheets at 31 December 2020. All with a non-golfing audience. other assets and liabilities will transfer to Golf Ireland. • Heightened use of social media, to be used for meeting Independent Review specific objectives of Golf Ireland. The figures have been subject to a procedure review by an • Implementation of a customer relationship management Independent Chartered Accountant. (CRM) tool for affiliate golf clubs, to enable us to communicate better with affiliate clubs. • Communication of relevant and targeted updates from Golf Ireland to affiliate clubs and members. • The development of a communications strategy covering all of these areas will be a key activity of Golf Ireland.

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3. Operations of Golf Ireland Volunteers Addressing negative perceptions of golf There are some negative perceptions of the game in the Where would golf be without volunteers? Quite simply, wider community and some of these perceptions will be slow they make so much possible. By administrating, officiating, to change. Addressing these negative perceptions will require a scheduling, selecting teams, transporting juniors, planning, range of different initiatives at both local and national levels. coaching, rating courses and all the many other tasks they undertake to support clubs and competitions in the game. The Breaking down barriers to participation GUI and ILGU have hundreds of dedicated volunteers who Understanding and breaking down the barriers to freely give their time to ensure the day-to-day running of all of participation and club membership will be a major objective of these different areas. Golf Ireland. International and national research has identified The strategic and essential value of volunteers is recognised time availability as the main reason for reduced participation, now by the ILGU and the GUI, and this ethos of volunteerism followed by cost. The same research indicates that increased will be carried through into Golf Ireland. The planned actions participation by women and a stronger family-oriented on this important element are based on the work done by approach are crucial to growing the game. the working group on volunteerism and on the detailed Adolescents are the future of the game, and we need to do consideration we have given to this aspect of the game and its considerable work to understand how we can motivate them to importance into the future. take up the game and continue to play as they become young Golf Ireland will continue to recruit and train volunteers adults. For whatever reason, the current structures continue to as a core element to how it will operate, and it recognises the present barriers for some young people. There are many ways great value that the volunteer base of both Unions will be to the that we can try to learn about young people’s experiences of successful roll-out of Golf Ireland and its operations. It will take golf – for example, through our volunteer network and through the following actions to ensure the continuing success of the more formal seminars and youth consultation programmes. volunteer contribution: There are also ways that we can incentivise young people to take • Put in place a strategy to develop a dependable volunteering up and stay with the game. framework to underpin its endeavours. • Implement a recruitment structure to ensure the continuing Catering more for the range of abilities high quality of volunteers. While we will continue to value our elite players, we also need to place more emphasis on retaining people within the • Develop descriptions for different kinds of volunteer roles, game and meeting the needs of the entire population of golfers specifying clearly what is expected of volunteers. in Ireland, particularly at junior level. • Develop induction training for volunteers and make this One critical factor in attracting and retaining golfers with available to all volunteers, current and new. a range of abilities is having courses that are set up to meet • Attract younger volunteers via a Junior Forum and develop a the full spectrum of driving distances and swing speeds. For ‘give back to golf’ programme to encourage ‘alumni’ to make example, more appropriate positioning of could better a contribution. accommodate beginners, seniors, young people and people with • Put in place a review process to ensure that the programmes disabilities. for volunteers are working well; in particular, monitoring Proposed centres of excellence the implementation of the safeguarding policy, and adjusting where needed. If established, Golf Ireland will give consideration to the formation of centres of excellence and will ensure that the • Recognise the contribution that volunteers make centres can adequately service the number of members using immediately after events where their contribution has been the facilities in that area. Each centre could act as a focus point key and also doing so in an annual message. for skills development and have a strong promotional value for golf in the region. Developing the Game Handicapping and Course Rating Acknowledging the work of JGI and CGI Golf Ireland will have a single Handicapping and Course Over the past fourteen years there has been a strong focus Rating System, based on best international practice and on developing the game by both Unions through the provision incorporating the World Handicap System. This system is of specialised development wings, Junior Golf Ireland (JGI) designed to encourage as many golfers as possible to obtain from 2004 to 2013, and the Confederation of Golf in Ireland a handicap; to enable golfers of differing abilities to play and (CGI) from 2013 to the present. JGI, though focused specifically compete on a fair and equitable basis on any course around on junior golf, made tremendous strides in breaking down the world; and be easy to understand and implement without barriers for juniors within clubs; it also brought in the Junior sacrificing accuracy or integrity. Golf Charter and Golf’s Safeguarding Policy. JGI also provided This will be overseen by a National Handicapping and first touch experiences to over 100,000 juniors through their Tri Course Rating Committee consisting of highly experienced Golf initiative and through School Awareness Days. people who will ensure consistency of practice and good Through Phase One of the CGI Development Plan, CGI have communication with clubs. provided support to 78% of clubs through their ‘Get into Golf’ This National Committee will have two sub committees: initiatives, leaders’ programmes and by offering clubs key support 1) National Handicap Sub-Committee and 2) USGA Course in areas such as governance, strategic planning and marketing/ Rating Sub-Committee; charged with regulating and overseeing communications. Moving forward, the main focus of Golf Ireland Handicapping and Course Rating respectively. Under Golf will be to continue building sustainable club structures with Ireland, Handicapping and Course Rating will be an improved more members being recruited and retained by clubs. follow on from the system currently operating in the GUI/ILGU.

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Regional Course Rating teams will be trained in the Course • Introducing standardised uniform and equipment for referees Rating System which is designed to ensure that the rating of a so that referees are instantly recognised by players and course relates properly to the ratings of other courses. A USGA spectators alike and can carry out all of the duties required. Course Rating, based on the performance of scratch golfers, • Ensuring compliance throughout the organisation with the together with the Bogey Rating based on the performance of Rules of Amateur Status. bogey golfers, provides for a Slope Rating. Handicapping and Course Rating at club level will require an education programme regarding the Slope Rating System. High Performance Under this system each player will be allocated a Handicap Index which adjusts up or down as the player’s game changes. As far as is practicable, Golf Ireland’s national High A Handicap Index is portable from course to course as well as Performance (HP) programme will be a joint programme for from one set of tees to another, as a player converts a Handicap male and female players. Index to a Course Handicap based on the Slope Rating of the The competitive element of the HP Programme will be tees played. separate by virtue of the separate events (team and individual) It is also proposed that men and women start working for male and female players. The coaching element of the HP together on handicapping and that each mixed gender club Programme will be split into regional and national programmes. should have a mixed gender handicap committee. The regional programme will be mixed, in that it will allow female players who are on the periphery of the HP Programme to access coaching and services together with male players in Championships the regional development centres. The national HP Programme will be led by two coaches – Golf Ireland will hold attractive and well-run one who will work with the female players and the other with championships and inter-club competitions across a range of the male players. It would not be feasible for a single coach to playing abilities. become sufficiently familiar with all of the male and female A National Championships Committee will be formed to players in the national squads. It is vitally important for the set national strategy and policy guidelines in relation to all national coaches to build relationships with the players to help championships and inter-club competitions, with regional them achieve their best – particularly during team events. championship committees taking responsibility for delivering Despite having different coaches, male and female high- these guidelines in their regions. The National Championship performance training sessions can take place simultaneously, Committee will be responsible for: allowing for male and female players to mix, particularly during • Forming a new and integrated calendar of events following a on-course sessions and meal times. rationalisation review. • Bringing together the current GUI and ILGU Inter-Club National Finals. Ensuring Environmental Sustainability • Modifying the ILGU District Championship structure to We have identified environmental sustainability as a crucial ensure that equivalent events are scheduled in Connacht, area for attention and acknowledge that golf needs to do more. Munster, Leinster and Ulster. The R&A has made substantial strides in leading golf towards • Introducing a new Championship for girls alongside the environmental sustainability and it has programmes that are existing boys under 16 and under 14 championships. available to Golf Ireland to support clubs in this area. Golf • Introducing a medal competition for males, similar in format Ireland will also utilise the services of The Golf Environment to the ILGU’s Medal Competition. This is in recognition of Organisation (GEO), funded by the European Golf Association the appeal that the ILGU Medal Competition has for club (EGA) to help clubs promote cost effective sustainability and golfers at all levels. promote golf’s positive environmental story. • Reconfiguring existing inter-club competitions that have a specific geographical connection within the regional structure; the transition to Golf Ireland will require further work in this area.

Rules Golf Ireland will maintain the acknowledged high standards that GUI and ILGU have set in the delivery of rules across all championships and inter-club competitions. A National Rules Committee will be formed to set national strategy and policy guidelines in relation to rules, with regional rules committees taking responsibility for delivering these guidelines in their regions. The National Rules Committee will be responsible for: • Setting standards for rules officials at national, regional and club level – to an internationally recognised standard. • Recruiting and retaining referees at all levels. • Creating pathways for rules officials to move from club level to national/international level, with appropriate training at all levels. • Allocating rules officials to national and international events. • Setting policy for dealing with rules queries from affiliate clubs and club members at national and regional level.

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4. Making the Transition to Golf Ireland

Assuming a “yes” vote on the 17th of November the Reference, Rules and agreeing Zones etc. It will also interact Transition Period will commence immediately thereafter. The with clubs in adapting to the new governing body. At national Transition Period will extend from then until the first AGM of level the focus will be on creating the Board structure as set out Golf Ireland at which all positions as set out in the Articles of in the Articles. the company will be filled by a vote of the member clubs. For this to happen the Regional structure, as set out in the Proposal agreed by the Boards, will have to be in place with the Regional Creating the Organisation Directors nominated prior to the AGM. The objective is to take the best of the ILGU and the While the process of creating the structure is ongoing a GUI and create a single national governing body which will parallel process of creating the organisation will also be in train. administer golf on the island of Ireland. The key to this The transition will be managed by a Transitions Team appointed process will be the appointment of a CEO for Golf Ireland who by the Boards. will work with the Transitions Team. The pace at which this person can the creation of the new organisation will be Creating the Structure influenced by whether the appointment is internal or external and how soon they can be recruited. The agreed Proposal sets Golf Ireland will mirror much of what is already in place at out a recommended structure for Golf Ireland and it is only the GUI and the ILGU, a professional organisation supported by as these roles are filled that the shape of the organisation will and ultimately accountable to its member clubs and volunteers. evolve. The objective is to put in place an organisation that can The primary focus of the Transitions Team will be on creating deliver the services, run the competitions and prepare teams as the Regions by recruiting volunteers, developing Terms of set out in the Proposal. The GUI and the ILGU will continue to operate throughout the Transition Period but once a CEO is appointed the process of transferring personnel and functions into Golf Ireland will commence. The ideal scenario would be that by the time of the first AGM all aspects of Golf Ireland would be in place and the dissolution of the GUI and the ILGU would then come into effect. All this will take considerable time. The current target date for the first AGM and Regional meetings is the final quarter of 2020 with a formal “go live” date of the 1st January 2021.

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A: Historical Financial Schedules GUI Income and Expenditure, ILGU Income and Expenditure, 2016 and 2017 2016 and 2017

Income 2016 2017 Income 2016 2017

Member subscriptions 2,747,703 3,087,878 Member subscriptions 1,032,087 1,011,517

Grants 473,971 436,185 LGU Capitation Fee -103,513 -101,512

Sponsorship 179,987 198,650 Grants 235,306 279,780

Sponsorship 39,271 39,091 Competitions 349,975 352,746

Competitions 154,850 156,502 Other 274,075 249,394

Other 29,669 33,512 Total 4,025,711 4,324,853

Total 1,387,670 1,418,890

Expenditure

Expenditure Administration 1,542,075 1,571,062

Administration 544,579 527,405 Training 663,688 562,008

Training 232,511 200,002 International Matches 330,358 343,000

International Matches 180,812 133,029 Competitions 515,995 429,672

Competitions 217,532 190,536 Office Expenses 223,520 199,592

Office Expenses 70,455 63,120 General Expenses 971,379 867,083 (including depreciation) General Expenses 270,595 241,544 (including depreciation) Grant to CGI 200,000 200,000

Grant to CGI 50,000 50,000 Exchange (see note 1) 107, 338 -6,505

Exchange (see note 1) 98,527 17,373 Total 4,554,353 4,165,912

Total 1,665,011 1,423,009 Surplus/(deficit) (528,642) 158,941

Surplus (deficit) (277,341) (4,119)

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CGI Income and Expenditure, GUI, ILGU and CGI: combined 2016 and 2017 Income and Expenditure, 2016 and 2017 Income 2016 2017

Grants 503,004 507,881 Income 2016 2017

Grant, GUI and ILGU 250,000 250,000 Member Subscriptions 3,779,790 4,099,395

Other 7,159 37,731 LGU Capitation Fee -103,513 -101,512

Total 760,163 795,612 Grants 1,462,281 1,473,846

Sponsorship 219,258 237,741

Expenditure Competitions 504,825 509,248

Administration 427,910 329,074 Other 310,903 320,637

Office Expenses 30,853 27,912 Total 6,173,544 6,539,355

General Expenses 165,429 169,054 (including depreciation) Expenditure Team Ireland 196,713 226,365 Administration 2,514,564 2,427,541 Exchange (see note 1) 21,144 -5,383 Training 896,199 762,010 Total 842,049 747,022 International Matches 511,170 476,029 Surplus (deficit) (81,886) 48,590 Competitions 733,527 620,208

Office Expenses 324,828 290,624

General Expenses 1,407,403 1,277,681 (including depreciation, see note 2)

Team Ireland 196,713 226,365

Grants GUI/ILGU to CGI 250,000 250,000

Exchange (see note 1) 227,009 5,485

Total 7,061,413 6,335,943

Surplus (deficit, (887,869) 203,412 see note 3)

NOTES

1: Exchange losses: The significant exchange loss in 2016 was driven by the sharp fall in the value of sterling following the decision by the UK to leave the European Union. 2: Exceptional expenditure in 2016: Exceptional expenditure in 2016 includes costs associated with the proposed Golf Ireland, the hosting of the World Amateur Team Championships and maintenance and hosting of Golfnet.

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3: From deficit to surplus: Historical Balance Sheets There is a net improvement of almost €1.1m year over year which is primarily due to the GUI increase in subscription rates The balance sheets of GUI, ILGU and CGI show that the in 2017 plus favourability in practically all areas of spend. organisations are strong, stable and financially viable.

Membership Numbers GUI 2016 2017

Fixed assets 5,058,407 4,669,356 Golfing Union of Ireland 2016 2017 (GUI) Investments 1,120,628 1,120,780 Men 130,492 127,097 Current Assets 2,628,708 2,888,792 Juniors 18,722 16,787 Current Liabilities -651,367 -618,048 Total (GUI) 149,214 143,884 Net Assets 8,156,376 8,060,880

Irish Ladies Golf Union (ILGU) ILGU 2016 2017

Ladies 35,941 35,665 Fixed assets 1,494,723 1,457,824

Juniors 3,647 3,349 Investments - -

Total (ILGU) 39,588 39,014 Current Assets 2,396,618 2,413,660

Total (GUI and ILGU) 188,802 182,898 Current Liabilities -158,383 -131,161

NOTE Net Assets 3,732,958 3,740,323 Membership generally continues to decline – however the rate of decline has slowed somewhat which is due in no small way to the success of Get Into Golf Programmes provided by CGI 2016 2017 CGI. Adult male membership showed a net decline of 2.6% and adult female membership showed a decline of 0.77% year on Fixed assets 51, 961 79,955 year. The greater concern is in the rate of decline in junior Investments - - golf membership with boys showing a drop of 10% and girls showing a drop of 8%, year on year. Current Assets 272,091 296,358 This highlights the need for change in how we target, attract and retain younger members. Current Liabilities -403,395 -407,064

Net Assets -79,343 -30,751

GUI, ILGU, CGI 2016 2017 combined

Fixed assets 6,605,091 6,207,135

Investments 1,120,628 1,120,780

Current Assets 5,297,417 5,598,810

Current Liabilities -1,213,145 -1,156,273

Net Assets 11,809,991 11,770,452

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B: Presidential Rotation in Golf Ireland The Office of President Honorary Life Members of Golf Ireland Honorary life members will have a role in helping the incumbent President carry out the full range of his/her duties The President of Golf Ireland will hold office for one year. during his/her year of office. A Presidential support team will The President Elect will succeed the President after his/her year also be in place and this team will include the President Elect of office. The Presidency will alternate annually by gender. and all past Presidents of Golf Ireland, GUI and ILGU. This A nomination for the post of President Elect will come from support team will be assisted by the Chairs of the Regional the relevant region. No member of the Regional Executive can Executives of Golf Ireland, as deemed appropriate. be nominated for the post of President Elect. If a member of the Regional Executive seeks the nomination for President Elect, he/she must step down as a member of the Executive before being eligible for nomination by the Regional Executive to this post. Eight-year Cycle Over an eight-year cycle the nomination of a Male and Female across each region, will be achieved in the following manner:

Year 1 President, Male President Elect, Female from Region 1 from Region 2

Year 2 President, Female President Elect, Male from Region 2 from Region 3

Year 3 President, Male President Elect, Female from Region 3 from Region 4

Year 4 President, Female President Elect, Male from Region 4 from Region 2

Year 5 President, Male President Elect, Female from Region 2 from Region 1

Year 6 President, Female President Elect, Male from Region 1 from Region 4

Year 7 President Male, President Elect, Female from Region 4 from Region 3

Year 8 President, Female President Elect, Male from Region 3 from Region 1

Thereafter, the cycle repeats.

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C: The Board of Golf Ireland

The first full Board of Golf Ireland will be appointed by a Transitional requirements will be agreed for the first Board. Nominations Committee. The Nominations Committee will In every year, the President and at least one regional member consist of four people nominated from the Boards of the ILGU and one appointed member will retire from office. and the GUI, two from each organisation and a fifth member Skills audits will be carried out to determine the specific who will be appointed as Chair. Members of the Nominations skills required for membership of the Board. All appointments Committee cannot be contenders for membership of the Board to the Board, except those nominated by the regions, must be of Golf Ireland. The process of appointing the Chair will involve approved by the Nominations Committee and agreed at the a shortlist of candidates being drawn up, following consultation AGM of Golf Ireland. with Sport Ireland and Sport Northern Ireland. The Boards of Elections for positions on the Board will take place annually the GUI and the ILGU shall agree their chosen candidate from at the Golf Ireland AGM. those shortlisted. The nominees may, but are not required, to be members of the Boards of both organisations. Rotation of Regional Composition of the Board Board Members The Board of Golf Ireland will have thirteen Directors, The gender balance for Regional Board Directors will be one including the Chair, the President and the President Elect. male, one female and two others, who may be male or female. All Board members will be entitled to vote. The Chair will The rotation for regional nominees’ rotation is as follows: still have the casting vote, in addition to his/her individual vote. Years 1 Region Region 2 Region 1 / Region 3 There will be a minimum of four male and four female to 4 4 male female Either male or female members of the Board. No member of staff may be a Board member. The CEO may attend Board meetings in accordance with the Years 5 Region 1 Region 3 Region 2 / Region 4 memorandum/articles of the company. to 8 male female Either male or female

Years 9 Region 2 Region Region 3/ Region 1 The Chair The Chair will be appointed for a term of to 12 male 4 female Either male or female four years, which may be followed by a further term of two years. Years 13 Region 3 Region 1 Region 4 / Region 2 to 16 male female Either male or female The President The President will serve for a term of one and the year and will be succeeded by the President President Elect Elect the following year. Gender Balance on the Board

Members One member will be nominated by each of Following the election of the President, the President Elect the four regions (four regional members and the regional nominees, there will be at least two males in total), to serve for a term of four years and two females on the Board. It is then the responsibility of (regional members). In each of the first the Nominations Committee to ensure that a minimum of two three years, one regional member will be further males and two further females are selected – either as required to resign to initiate and maintain appointed Board Directors or as Regional Directors (if some of the gender rotation of members. the regional positions remain to be filled). All appointments are Six appointed Board Directors with to be carried out based on ‘the best person for the job’ unless specific skills will be recruited to serve for the Golf Ireland gender quota (30% female, 30% male, 40% a term of four years, which may be followed either) is required to be applied. by a further term of two years. Normally, these appointed members will be members of golf clubs, although this will not be an explicit requirement. In each of the first three years, two appointed Board Directors will be required to resign to initiate and maintain the rotation of members. Volunteers in Golf Ireland, along with members of affiliate clubs and others, from across the country, are eligible to apply for nomination.

The term ‘appointed’ in this context is intended to mean ‘not a current Director of the Board of Golf Ireland, a current member of a Regional Executive and is subject to a vote at the AGM of Golf Ireland’.

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D: Golf Ireland Staffing Structure

The graphic below shows the expected staffing structure of Golf Ireland. Chief Executive

Head of Head of Head of High Head of Regional Finance/ Communications Championships Performance Participation/ Managers x4 Academy and Marketing Programme Club Support Manager Rules/ Manager Staff per region Digital/Social Handicapping/ Participation (appropriate to Office Manager Media Executive USGA Executive High Performance Officers x4 size of region) Admin Club Support CE Support/ Content Writer Tournament Officers X4 Admin Director Women & Girls Mobile Driver Tournament Co-ordinator Administrator Safeguarding/ Finance Admin Volunteer Executive Manager

Safeguarding Admin E: Golf Ireland Regional Executives

The following is a summary of the composition of the Golf Ireland Regional Executives:

Position Term Gender balance

Chair Maximum term of four years. At least one of the three Regional Officers must be male and one female.

Secretary Term of four years – can serve a further term of two years.

Treasurer Term of four years – can serve a further term of two years.

Executive Members Eleven members (eight from the zones & three others from the At least four of the eleven entire region) – term of four years. executive members must be May serve a second four-year term if re-elected. male and four females. In every year, a minimum of one-quarter of the executive members must retire from office. The maximum term of office on the Regional Executive is ten years – six years as an ordinary member and four years as an officer.

Regional Board Shall be an ex officio member of the Regional Executive while Nominee a Director of the Board of Golf Ireland and shall be entitled to attend but not to vote at meetings of the Regional Executive.

Regional Officers Chair, Secretary and Treasurer

A member may serve a maximum of 6 years before being nominated as a Regional Officer.

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This assumes that an existing Regional Officer, when due for Elections to the Regional Executives election, is not replaced by an existing member, as and when Elections to the Regional Executives will take place at the this occurs the member is to be replaced by an individual with a Regional AGMs. Candidates shall be nominated by clubs and new 4-year term. voting at elections shall be in accordance with the system set All Regional Executives will be newly established, and all out on pages 10 and 11, titled “Club Voting in Golf Ireland”. positions will be open to current and future volunteers. Voting for each position will occur one by one with the best person for the job getting the position. If the gender balance is not Support Teams for Regional Zones achieved using this method, then the final positions would need to appoint the best male/female candidate to achieve the To properly service clubs, each person elected to the respective correct balance. This will require clear thinking on the night Regional Executive from a zone within that region, may have of the election and some forward planning to ensure that a support team to assist them in servicing clubs in that zone. sufficient candidates of both genders are in the nomination This composition of the team will be decided by the Regional listing. Executive and shall include people with expertise in areas such as Handicapping, Junior Golf, Course Rating, Rules and the administration of Championships and inter-club Matches. Rotation of the Regional Executives

Members; Chair (C), Secretary (s), Treasurer (T) & Executive Members (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11) Officers Chair, Secretary & Treasurer

Year 1 – term in brackets

Chair (4-years), Secretary (4-years), Treasurer (2-years) all elected

Executive Members; no’s 1 to 3 (1 year), 4 to 6 (2 years), 7 to 9 (3 years), 10 to 12 (4 years) all elected

Year 2

Chair, Secretary & Treasurer in post

Executive Members; no’s 1 to 3 for re-election, 4 to 11 in post

Year 3

Chair in post, Secretary in post, Treasurer to be re-elected

Executive Members; no’s 1-3 in post, 4 to 6 for re-election, 7 to 11 in post

Year 4

Chair, Secretary, Treasurer all in post

Executive Members; 1 to 6 in post, 7 to 9 to be elected, 10 to 12 in post

Year 5

Chair to be elected, Secretary to be elected, Treasurer in post

Executive Members 1 to 9 in post, 10 to 12 to be elected, etc.

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25 All queries should be directed to [email protected] W onegoverningbody.com

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