No further disciplinary action over Irish dancing allegations of 'historical wrongdoing'

Irish Dancing’s governing body has confirmed that it "will not be pursuing further disciplinary action" against individuals accused of "historical wrongdoing" at Irish dancing competitions. Photo: RollingNews.ie

Irish Dancing’s governing body An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha (CLRG) has confirmed that it "will not be pursuing further disciplinary action" against individuals accused of "historical wrongdoing" at Irish dancing competitions.

According to the CLRG, the decision was taken by Coiste Faire, the organisation's ethics committee, and those involved are "now being contacted concerning this decision."

Back in October 2022, allegations were made against the CLRG in relation to alleged competition fixing.

Disciplinary hearings followed the allegations, and independent external panels examined complaints against over 40 individuals who were allegedly involved in attempts to fix higher marks for students.

The individuals concerned were suspended from judging competitions at this time.

By February of this year, the CLRG confirmed that the first ten disciplinary hearings were due to be heard and concluded by the middle of March.

However, on Wednesday night, the CLRG confirmed that no further disciplinary action would be pursued.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the organisation said: "Ensuring fair competition and effective adjudication at CLRG competitions has always been a key priority.

“Enhanced competition and adjudication procedures were introduced in advance of the 2023 All Ireland Championships, that continue to be strictly adhered to and enforced at all CLRG competitions.” 

According to the spokesperson, "the procedure for selecting adjudicators for competitions has also been strengthened, with all registered 2,300 CLRG teachers and members now having a vote in the process."

The organisation said it is "undergoing a modernisation and transformation process" guided by the recommendations of an independent strategic review that took place last year.

A new managing director has also been appointed, with "further changes expected in the near future", including the development of a new, robust disciplinary code of practice.