Lough Rinn Dragons Constitution

1. Name of the Club

The name of the club shall be Lough Rinn Dragons Boating Club.

2. Status and Governance

The Club is a non-profit voluntary sports organisation dedicated to promoting dragon boating within the local community. The club operates under the governance of the Executive Committee, which is responsible for managing the club’s affairs.

3. Objectives of the Club

The objectives of Lough Rinn Dragons Boating Club are:

  • To promote an interest in dragon boating and maintain its traditions.

  • To ensure the sport is inclusive and accessible to all, encouraging participation from men and women.

  • To encourage a high standard of participation through the formation of crews and racing dragon boats.

  • To provide practical assistance to members, including training facilities, equipment, and technical guidance.

  • To promote wellness, fitness, fun, and camaraderie among participants.

  • To raise awareness about lifestyle and health management, particularly the benefits of dragon boating for breast cancer survivors.

  • To organise social and competitive events for members and non-members, including charitable dragon boating initiatives.

4. Membership

4.1 Membership Eligibility

  • Full membership is open to individuals aged 18 years and older.

  • Membership is subject to the majority approval of the Executive Committee.

  • All members must complete the following:

    • Membership/Declaration Form

    • Personal Disclosure Form(s)

    • Any additional requirements outlined in the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

4.2 Membership Fees

  • The annual membership fee shall be set and approved at the club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM).

  • Membership fees must be paid each year for continued participation.

4.3 Membership Rules

  • Members must abide by the Club Rules and SOPs, which are provided upon application.

  • A member may resign at any time by submitting written notice to the Club Secretary. No refunds will be issued.

  • The Executive Committee has the right to expel any member who breaches the rules or whose conduct is deemed harmful to the club. Expelled members will not receive refunds.

5. Club Meetings

5.1 Annual General Meeting (AGM)

The AGM shall be held annually for the following purposes:

  • To receive the Annual Report and financial statement.

  • To elect members to serve on the Executive Committee.

  • To address any other business raised.

  • A quorum for AGMs shall be deemed reached if at least 25% of full members are present in person. Each full member has one vote.

5.2 Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM)

  • The Executive Committee may call an EGM when necessary.

  • Voting procedures for an EGM shall be the same as the AGM.

6. Executive Committee

6.1 Structure

The Executive Committee shall consist of 5 to 8 members, elected at the AGM:

  • Chairperson

  • Vice Chairperson

  • Secretary

  • Vice Secretary

  • Treasurer

  • Assistant Treasurer

  • Public Relations Officer (PRO)

  • Fundraising & Health & Safety Officer

6.2 Powers & Responsibilities

  • The Executive Committee manages all club affairs and ensures governance compliance.

  • It has the power to appoint Honorary Members, who will not be required to pay fees or vote.

  • The working of the committee is outlined in the Club’s SOPs.

6.3 Meetings & Decision-Making

  • The Executive Committee shall meet up to 9 times per year.

  • A quorum for meetings is 50% of the committee members.

  • In the event of a tied vote, the Chairperson shall have the casting vote.

7. Amendments to the Constitution

  • The Club Constitution may only be amended at an AGM or an EGM.

  • Amendments require a two-thirds majority vote of the full members present.

8. Complaints & Disciplinary Procedures

8.1 Complaints Process

  • Complaints must be submitted in writing to the Club Secretary.

  • The Executive Committee will investigate and seek resolution within 30 days.

  • If the complaint concerns the Executive Committee, it may be referred to the AGM or an EGM.

8.2 Disciplinary Actions

The Executive Committee may take disciplinary action, including:

  • Formal warnings

  • Suspension

  • Expulsion (without refund) for severe breaches of conduct

9. Financial Management

  • All club accounts must be held in an official bank account.

  • At least two signatories (Treasurer & Chairperson) are required for withdrawals.

  • Financial records shall be audited annually and presented at the AGM.

10. Club Governance Framework

  • The Club follows the Code of Practice for Good Governance of Community, Voluntary and Charitable Organisations in Ireland.

  • All policies and procedures are outlined in the Club’s SOPs and must align with this Constitution.

This Constitution ensures transparency, accountability, and the smooth operation of Lough Rinn Dragons Boating Club in alignment with its governance commitments.

Ratified: April 2025