Olympic Federation of Ireland Welcomes Four New Member Federations at AGM
The Olympic Federation of Ireland marked the 100-days-to-go milestone for Paris 2024 with its Annual General Meeting, where four new member federations were welcomed into the fold. Cricket Ireland, Irish Squash, Ireland Lacrosse, and American Football Ireland have been approved by the IOC for inclusion in the Summer Olympics programme for LA 2028, bringing the total number of Member Federations affiliated to the OFI to 47.
CEO Peter Sherrard expressed his delight at the expansion of sports membership, stating that the new members will enhance the presence of Olympic Sports in Ireland and contribute to a strong future for Team Ireland. The addition of these new federations comes at a significant time, as the Olympic Games in Paris 2024 are just 100 days away, with Team Ireland expected to field its largest team ever.
The AGM also saw unanimous approval for several Governance changes to the OFI Constitution, which will come into effect from 2025. These changes include the CEO becoming the Secretary General for IOC purposes, the Nominations Committee reviewing candidatures for President and Independent Members, and the addition of up to two further independent members to the board.
President Sarah Keane expressed gratitude to the members for their support of these reforms, which address important issues related to succession, international representation, and the addition of independent members with specific skill sets to the board. The OFI and 22 of its Members, including Cricket Ireland, Squash Ireland, and Lacrosse Ireland, are full members of the Sport for Business community, which comprises nearly 300 organizations in the sporting and business sectors.
As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, the Olympic Federation of Ireland is gearing up for a historic year, with new member federations, Governance reforms, and a strong presence in the Sport for Business community setting the stage for a successful future for Irish Olympic sports.