Corporate Governance

How we are Governed

The Irish Red Cross Board of Directors is comprised of:

  1. Volunteers elected by members of the General Assembly (the highest governing body of the Irish Red Cross, which is comprised of people elected by members of the society through area/branch structures)
  2. Independent volunteers are chosen for their experience, skills, and knowledge, and nominated by the government
  3. Two board members are appointed by the chair to address specific gaps or organisational priorities

All board members, regardless of how they come onto the board have exactly the same governance responsibilities for the Irish Red Cross as a national organisation registered with the Irish Charities Regulator, operating in Ireland and also as part of a wider global movement. The term of office for all board members is three years, with a maximum term of nine years. The role of the Board of Directors is to develop and oversee the implementation of the organisation’s strategy and to and to ensure supervision of the affairs of the Society on a day-to-day basis so that it delivers on its goals and objectives and upholds the values and principles of the Red Cross Movement in every aspect of its activities.

As a registered Irish charity, the Irish Red Cross is listed on the Charities Regulatory Authority’s Register of Charities (Charity Reg. No. 20005184) in the Republic of Ireland. Every year, our finances are independently audited, meeting established SORP standards, and published on our website. To ensure the highest standard of governance, the Irish Red Cross complies with and implements the following codes:

  • PHECC (Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council) Quality Code and Standards
  • Child protection and safeguarding code
  • Charity Regulator’s Guidelines for Charitable Organisations on Fundraising from the Public
  • Charities Regulator Charities Governance Code
  • Statement of Recommended Practice for financial and activities reporting (SORP)

Dóchas Code of Conduct on Images and Messages

The Irish Red Cross is a signatory of the Dóchas Code of Conduct on Images and Messages (“the Code”) and commits to applying the Code’s principles for all its communications.

Triple Lock Standard

The Irish Red Cross maintains a certified Triple Lock Standard in keeping with the Charity Institute of Ireland’s highest standards in transparent reporting, ethical fundraising, and strong governance structures.

Click here for Corporate Governance Publications, Annual Reports, and Policies