Nominations are now being accepted for the position of President of the IFA and must be returned by 5.30pm on Wednesday January 6, 2016, according to the IFA.
The IFA National Treasurer and Returning Officer (NTRO) Jer Bergin opened nominations today (Wednesday).
The resignation of Eddie Downey on November 25, means an election for President must be held, involving the members voting in the branches.
The National Rules Committee met yesterday and advised the NTRO to seek nominations for the position of President and the IFA has said that he has notified to County Executives.
Under the rules, an election must take place within two months of the vacancy.
At last week’s Executive Council meeting, the Rules Committee was requested to advise Council on the best timeframe and process for an election.
With this in mind and in view of the circumstances, the IFA has stated that the Rules Committee advised Council that a Rule change is required to give Council greater flexibility on the timing of an election as follows:
To start the Rule change process, which requires 28 days notice, the Executive Board met yesterday (Tuesday) and gave notice to the Acting General Secretary of the proposed change, as set out above, according to the IFA.
The Executive Council will meet on Tuesday January 5, 2016 in ordinary and special meetings to vote on the proposed Rule change.
If this amendment is passed at each meeting by a two-thirds majority, then it will become effective immediately, the IFA has stated.
Once the amendment is in place, the Council may then decide by a simple majority to extend the period for holding the election to whatever date the Council sees fit.
Timetable for Nominations and Election(s)
Wednesday December 3, 2015
Nominations: The NTRO writes to all County Executives seeking nominations for President with a closing date of 5.30pm on Wednesday January 6, 2016.
Rule change: Executive Board gives notice of proposed rule change to Acting General Secretary and Council will meet on Tuesday January 5, in both ordinary and special meetings.
Tuesday December 15, 2015
Executive Council meets to receive Con Lucey Review.
If other vacancies arise, the NTRO will seek nominations to close on Wednesday January 6, 2016.
The NTRO recommends adoption of a Code of Conduct for candidates and prospective candidates.
Tuesday January 5, 2015
The ordinary and special council meetings vote on proposed rule change. If passed by a two-thirds majority at each meeting, the Rule change becomes effective immediately.
Then, Council may by a simple majority extend the period for the election to be completed, for example to March, April or June.
Wednesday January 6, 2015
The closing date for receipt of nominations for positions which are vacant.