18 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ABOUT GOLF IRELAND
1. What will Golf Ireland mean for me and my club?
A secure future for the game and increased support and funding for clubs in a familyfriendly, inclusive sporting organisation.
2. Why do I need Golf Ireland?
If we don’t act now, golf will remain in decline. We need to change the way we run golf for the good of the game.
3. How much will it cost me to be part of Golf Ireland?
For the first two years, Golf Ireland affiliation fees will be fixed at €24 for adults (£20 in Northern Ireland) and €5 (£3.50) for juniors.
4. We have the GUI and ILGU, why would we need Golf Ireland?
The GUI was founded in 1891 and the ILGU in 1893. Golf Ireland will modernise governance of the game and put in place structures that are fit for purpose.
5. What benefits will Golf Ireland bring?
Having an allinclusive governing body will help attract capital funding and commercial partners, which is good for the image of the game.
6. Will Golf Ireland interfere with the running of my club?
Golf Ireland will support clubs and advise on best practice. Golf Ireland will not interfere with the day-to-day running of its affiliate clubs.
7. What changes will we see in our club?
Clubs will only have to deal with one body when it comes to handicapping, inter-club events, club supports and game development.
8. Will there be separate men’s and women’s clubs?
There will be no requirement for separate men’s and women’s clubs. Each club will be free to decide to move to a single structure or retain their existing structure.
9. Who will be in charge of Golf Ireland?
Golf Ireland will be a company limited by guarantee (CLG) with a Board of Directors in place to determine strategy. The Chief Executive will be responsible for operations and will lead a dedicated staffing structure.
10. Why are ILGU and GUI proposing to establish Golf Ireland?
Golf has been in decline for more than a decade in Ireland. Both unions appreciate the need for change in order to revitalise the game and meet the needs of modern society.
11. Why will Golf Ireland be structured by province?
During the consultation phase, it became clear that there is an emotional and historical attachment to the provincial structure.
12. Will affiliate clubs have more of a say in Golf Ireland?
Affiliate clubs will be entitled to attend national and regional general meetings, put forward notices of motion, discuss financial reports (among others) and vote on appointments to the Regional Executive.
13. What will happen to handicapping under Golf Ireland?
Ireland will continue to be governed by the CONGU handicapping system until a World Wide Handicapping (WWH) system is introduced.
14. What will be the main benefits of voting for Golf Ireland?
Golf Ireland will promote equality, inclusivity and family-friendly initiatives. Ultimately Golf Ireland will heighten interest among commercial sponsors and Government bodies.
15. Will Golf Ireland result in a financial saving?
Yes. There will be annual savings of approx. €250,000 which will be reinvested into the organisation to develop and improve the game of golf.
16. Will women have a voice in Golf Ireland?
The new organisation will promote equality and inclusivity for all golfers, ensuring the voice of both men and women is heard.
17. Will golf clubs still have two captains?
All clubs will remain as self-governing entities and determine their own honorary positions.
18. Will Golf Ireland be an equal organisation?
The new organisation will seek to ensure that clubs treat all members fairly. Rights and entitlements will be determined by membership categories and not by gender.