IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 10 July 2013
Statement issued by The Wheel
GREEN LIGHT FOR CHARITY REGULATOR IS GOOD NEWS
FOR THE PUBLIC AND CHARITIES
10 July 2013 - The Wheel, a national network representing over 900 charities, welcomes the announcement today by Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, Alan Shatter TD that Government has approved plans to establish and independent Charities Regulatory Authority. The new Authority will come into operation in 2014.
Commenting on today’s announced, The Wheel’s Director of Advocacy Ivan Cooper said: “This is good news for both the public and charities. When the regulator is established, members of the public will for the first time have access to comprehensive information on the activities of all of Ireland’s 8,000 charities, including how they use their funds. Charities will themselves enjoy clarity on what the requirement are in relation to governance standards, fundraising practices and reporting requirements. All in all everyone - charities, members of the public and beneficiaries - will benefit from the increased transparency and accountability that regulation of charities will provide,” said Mr Cooper.
With regard to how the new Authority will be funded, Mr Cooper added: "We will be working to ensure that whatever fees are levied are fair to all charities."
Mr Cooper added: “Charities have been calling for regulation of the sector for many years now and we are looking forward to working with the regular to ensure that the regulatory framework supports the work of charities.”
In February, the Government embarked on a public and stakeholder consultation on the implementation of the Charities Act 2009. The Department of Justice and Equality today also published a summary report of submissions received.
ENDS
Ivan Cooper is available for interview. Contact Gert Ackermann on 086 176 9287 or email gert@wheel.ie
ABOUT THE WHEEL
The Wheel is a national organisation that represents and supports community, voluntary and charitable organisations in Ireland.
Founded in 1999, we currently represent over 900 organisations across Ireland, reflecting the enormous scope and scale of this vibrant and diverse sector.
The Wheel exists to help change people’s lives for the better. We do this by helping non-profit organisations get things done, more efficiently and more effectively.
As an independently governed, membership-based organisation, we represent our members’ shared interests to Government and other decision-makers, and we promote better understanding of the vital work they do for people in Ireland.
.
