53
Breaffy Business Centre, Breaffy, Castlebar, County Mayo, F23 C674 T. +353 (0)94 9028141 F. +353 (0)94 9028143 E. [email protected] W. www.golfnet.ie Chairman: Jim McGovern Hon. Secretary: Michael Heaney Hon. Treasurer: Michael Evans Enda Lonergan, General Secretary. November 10, 2017. To: Honorary Secretary of all Connacht Affiliated Clubs; Connacht Provincial Council; Re.: Special Delegates Meeting of the Connacht Clubs on Tuesday November 28, 2017 at 7pm sharp in The McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris. Gentlemen, Notice is hereby given that a Special Delegates’ Meeting of the Connacht Branch GUI shall take place at The McWilliam Park Hotel on Tuesday November 28, at 7.00pm sharp. Clubs are entitled to their prescribed quota of Delegates as provided for in the Constitution and Rules of the Golfing Union of Ireland (per List issued with Notice for the Annual Delegates’ Meeting on the same evening at 7.30pm). Please advise the Executive Officer of the Branch by return if your Club shall not be represented so as Apologies may be recorded. Michael Heaney Enda Lonergan ________________________________. __________________________________. Michael Heaney, Hon. Secretary. Enda Lonergan, Executive Officer. AGENDA: 1. Apologies; 2. To approve amendments and additions to the Connacht Branch Bye Laws (enclosed);

Notice is hereby given that a Special Delegates’ Meeting ... Listing Assets/Complete ADM and Special...giving clear and easy reference to the applicable sections of the Union Constitution

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Breaffy Business Centre, Breaffy, Castlebar, County Mayo, F23 C674

T. +353 (0)94 9028141 F. +353 (0)94 9028143 E. [email protected] W. www.golfnet.ie

Chairman: Jim McGovern Hon. Secretary: Michael Heaney Hon. Treasurer: Michael Evans

Enda Lonergan,

General Secretary.

November 10, 2017.

To: Honorary Secretary of all Connacht Affiliated Clubs;

Connacht Provincial Council;

Re.: Special Delegates Meeting of the Connacht Clubs on Tuesday November 28, 2017 at 7pm

sharp in The McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris.

Gentlemen,

Notice is hereby given that a Special Delegates’ Meeting of the Connacht Branch GUI shall take place at The

McWilliam Park Hotel on Tuesday November 28, at 7.00pm sharp.

Clubs are entitled to their prescribed quota of Delegates as provided for in the Constitution and Rules of the

Golfing Union of Ireland (per List issued with Notice for the Annual Delegates’ Meeting on the same evening

at 7.30pm).

Please advise the Executive Officer of the Branch by return if your Club shall not be represented so as Apologies may be recorded.

Michael Heaney Enda Lonergan

________________________________. __________________________________.

Michael Heaney, Hon. Secretary. Enda Lonergan, Executive Officer.

AGENDA:

1. Apologies;

2. To approve amendments and additions to the Connacht Branch Bye Laws (enclosed);

Breaffy Business Centre, Breaffy, Castlebar, County Mayo, F23 C674

T. +353 (0)94 9028141 F. +353 (0)94 9028143 E. [email protected] W. www.golfnet.ie

Chairman: Jim McGovern Hon. Secretary: Michael Heaney Hon. Treasurer: Michael Evans

Explanatory Document Re. Update to Branch Bye laws:

In essence the need to revise the Bye laws and make deletions, amendments and additions is to reflect the

changes to the Union Constitution which were brought into effect after the Union AGM of February 2017.

This exercise was required in 2017 in each of the four provinces and was handled under the guidance of the

National Constitution Committee on whose recommendations the amendments are now before you for

approval.

Amendment and acknowledgement of the introduction of the Board is to be found immediately in Clause 1

rather than Central Council who were historical the central committee of the Union;

All the additions to Clause 2 are to make the use of the Bye laws easier for those who may wish to do so by

giving clear and easy reference to the applicable sections of the Union Constitution from which they draw

their direction and powers, where applicable;

The additions and amendments to Clause 6 are to provide clarity around those who may attend the Annual

and Special meetings of the Branch, with the addition of 6.2.6 Observers ensuring that only those appropriate

to the business of the meeting are in attendance.

The amendments and additions to Clause 9 are required to reflect the changes to the method of voting (i.e. Weighted Voting) reflected in Clauses 9.3.2 and 9.7 to be used at Branch meetings;

Clause 13 has seen amendment to reflect how the Council Delegates shall now be entitled to attend and vote

at the Union AGM, at which Clubs shall also have two delegates in attendance for the first time;

Clause 21 has seen some administrative tidying up to reflect the changes to the suite of competitions offered

by Connacht Golf since the Bye Laws were last reviewed;

The change of job description of the General Secretary to Executive Officer in various clauses throughout the

Bye laws is also updated;

End.

2017 Delegate Representation of Clubs Each Club shall be entitled to Delegate Representation on the Branch in proportion to the number of Members in respect of whom

Union Subscriptions and Provincial Levies have been paid as stated in its last Annual Return to the Union, and according to the

following scale:

(a) Up to 100 Members One Delegate

(b) From 101 to 200 Members Two Delegates

(c) From 201 to 400 Members Three Delegates

(d) From 401 Members and Up Four Delegates

(e) University Club One Delegate (non Voting)

(f) Newly Affiliated Club One Delegate

The List hereunder indicates the number of Delegates entitled to attend at the A.D.M. of the Connacht Branch, G.U.I. on

November 28, 2017, as per Poll Tax Returns made to the Union by each affiliated Club in 2017 and provided to the Connacht

Branch GUI by GUI National Office on September 8, 2017.

Club 2017 +/- wrt 2016 Delegate(s) Provincial Council

Achill Island (100) - 5 1*

Athenry (528) - 33 4

Athlone (324) - 9 3

Ballaghaderreen (65) - 11 1

Ballina (198) - 7 2*

Ballinamore (141) - 19 2 OFFICERS

Ballinasloe (319) - 12 3 Jim McGovern (Castlebar), Chairman

Ballinrobe (290) - 35 3 Michael Heaney (Oughterard), Hon. Secretary

Ballyhaunis (116) - 8 2 Michael Evans (Athlone), Hon. Treasurer

Ballymote (63) - 3 1

Bearna (147) - 4 2 ORDINARY DELEGATES

Belmullet (134) - 8 2 Richard Canavan (Tuam)

Boyle (107) - 13 2 John Durcan (Co. Sligo)

Ck-on-Shannon (182) + 20 2 Matt Donohue (Portumna)

Castlebar (342) + 15 3 Jimmy Duggan (Galway)

Castle Dargan (67) - 18 1 John MacDonagh (Castlebar)

Castlerea (180) - 38 2* Niall MacSweeney (Athenry)

Claremorris (209) - 9 3 Cathal McConn (Roscommon)

Connemara (225) - 28 3 Nicky McLoughlin (Ballina)

Connemara Isles (72) + 4 1 Jim Mooney (Boyle)

Co. Sligo (428) + 9 4 John O’Donoghue (Strandhill)

Cregmore Park (258) - 65 3 Tony Slevin (Loughrea)

Curra West (56) + 1 1

Dunmore Demesne (97) - 12 1*

Enniscrone (227) - 12 3 HONORARY DELEGATES (Non-voting)

Galway (789) - 12 4 Tommie Basquille (Strandhill)

Galway Bay (237) + 12 3 Michael Butler (Athlone)

Glenlo Abbey (125) + 8 2 Michael Connaughton (Roscommon)

Gort (310) - 37 3 Gar Golden (Westport)

Loughrea (420) - 4 4 Fred Perry (Co. Sligo)

Mountbellew (259) - 27 3 Eugene Fayne (Athlone)

Mulranny (105) + 6 2^

NUIG (0) ------ 1 (Non Voting)

Oughterard (470) - 69 4 EXECUTIVE OFFICER (Non-voting)

Portumna (394) + 72 3 Enda Lonergan (Westport)

Roscommon (260) + 1 3

Strandhill (347) - 3 3

Strokestown (119) + 12 2

Swinford (84) - 6 1

Tubbercurry (141) + 11 2

Tuam (271) + 7 3

Westport (270) - 14 3

Total Members (9824) - 348 - 3

Legend: * Decrease in Delegate Voting Number = 1; ̂ Increase in Delegate Voting Number = 1;

Total Club Delegates Voting Number – 100;

Total Provincial Council Voting No. – 14; Total number of eligible Votes for the 2017 A.D.M. = 114.

Breaffy Business Centre, Breaffy, Castlebar, County Mayo, F23 C674

T. +353 (0)94 9028141 F. +353 (0)94 9028143 E. [email protected] W. www.golfnet.ie

Annual Delegates’ Meeting 2017

The ________ Representatives of _______________________ Golf Club

At the A.D.M. in the McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris

On

Tuesday November 28 at 7.00pm sharp are:

1. _______________________________________________. BLOCK LETTERS PLEASE

2. ________________________________________________. BLOCK LETTERS PLEASE

3. ________________________________________________.

BLOCK LETTERS PLEASE

4. ________________________________________________. BLOCK LETTERS PLEASE

Signed: ___________________________________. Club Captain/Hon. Secretary. Notes: Delegate Voting Cards shall be issued at Time of Registration on November 28. Delegate Voting Cards must be produced in order to receive a Ballot Paper. Please Return to: Enda Lonergan, General Secretary, Connacht Branch, Golfing Union of Ireland, Breaffy Business Centre, Breaffy, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. By no later than Tuesday November 21, 2017. Returns may be Faxed to 094-9028143, or Email to: [email protected]

(Note - Details of the Delegate Attendance entitlements of each Affiliated Club can be found enclosed).

Chairman: Jim McGovern Hon. Secretary: Michael Heaney Hon. Treasurer: Michael Evans

CONNACHT BRANCH

GOLFING UNION OF IRELAND

BYE-LAWS & TERMS OF REFERENCE

Bye Laws last Updated following ADM 2014

Redraft items in BOLD & ITALIC font

INTERPRETATION

1. DEFINITIONS

In these Bye-Laws, unless the context otherwise requires:-

"the Union " shall mean the Golfing Union of Ireland;

"the Constitution" shall mean the Constitution of the Golfing Union of Ireland;

"the Board" shall mean the Board of the Union;

"the Branch" shall mean the Connacht Branch of the Union;

"the Province" shall mean the Province of Connacht;

"the Annual Meeting" shall mean the Annual Meeting of Delegates;

“the Special Meeting” shall mean a Special Meeting of Delegates;

"the Council" shall mean the Provincial Council of the Branch constituted pursuant to the provisions of clause 7.1 of these

Bye-Laws;

“the Executive Officer” shall mean the Executive Officer of the Connacht Branch, GUI;

“the Trustees” shall be the persons appointed by resolution of the Council to act as custodians of the Branch’s assets;

The expressions "Club" and "University Club" and situated within the province of Connacht shall have meaning ascribed to

them in the Constitution and Rules of the Golfing Union of Ireland.

2. The CONSTITUTION OF THE GOLFING UNION OF IRELAND

2.1 The Branch shall conform in every respect with the Constitution and Bye-Laws of the Union and these Branch Bye-

Laws shall be construed in conjunction therewith.

2.2 The Branch shall devote its activities to promoting and fostering the game of men’s amateur golf in every way and to

the implementation of the objects of the Union as set out in the Constitution.

2.3 The following matters relevant to the governance of the Branch are provided for in the Constitution.

2.3.1 The composition of a Branch (Ref. Const. 15)

2.3.2 The manner in which Clubs shall be affiliated (Ref. Const. 14)

2.3.3 Membership and entitlements of affiliated Clubs (Ref. Const. 10)

2.3.4 The holding of Branch meetings and the manner of which notice of same shall be given (Ref. Const. 18)

2.3.5 Proposal of Notice of Motion at Annual & Special meetings of the Branch (Ref. Const. 34)

2.3.6 Club Delegate Representation at Branch meetings (Ref. Const. 15)

2.3.7 Voting Rights at Branch meetings (Ref. Const. 25)

2.3.8 The Officers of the Provincial Council (Ref. Const. 16)

2.3.9 Filling of vacancies on Provincial Council (Ref. Const. 16)

2.3.10 The manner in which meetings of the Branch and Council shall be presided over (Ref. Const. 16)

2.3.11 Eligibility for election as a Branch Officer or Member of the Provincial Council (Ref. Const. 24)

2.3.12 Eligibility for re-election of a Branch Chairman (Ref. Const. 18)

2.3.13 Election of Honorary Delegates to the provincial Council (Ref. Const. 27)

2.3.14 The nomination of five representatives to attend the Annual General Meeting of the Union (Ref. Const. 16)

2.3.15 Conduct and provisions for elections by secret ballot at Branch meetings and Provincial Council meetings

(Ref Const. 36)

2.3.16 Conduct and provisions of voting in matters other than elections at Branch meetings and Provincial

Council meetings (Ref. Const. 35)

2.3.17 Disciplinary & Appeals procedures (including those which may lead to the removal from office of any

Officer and member of Provincial Council (Ref. Const. 9)

2.3.18 The manner in which the amount of annual per capita provincial levy payable by each Branch shall be

determined (Ref. Const. 19)

2.3.19 Calling of Special meetings of the Branch (Ref. Const. 22)

2.3.20 Appointment of Committees and sub-Committees (Ref. Const. 35)

2.4 Changes to the Bye laws must be made by submission of notice of motion in accordance with the provisions of

the Constitution (Ref. Const. 37)

3. OFFICERS

3.1 The Officers of the Branch shall be the Chairman, Honorary Secretary, Honorary Treasurer, and the expression 'The

Officers' shall be construed accordingly. They shall retire annually and shall be eligible for re-election. Their duties and

functions are set out in clauses 14, 15 and 16 respectively of these Bye-Laws.

3.2 To be eligible for election as an Officer of the Branch, an individual must have served for a period of at least 3 years on

the Council.

4. CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT

4.1 The business of the Branch shall be controlled and managed by the Council.

5. DELEGATES

5.1 Prior to each Branch Delegate Meeting each Club shall forward in writing to the Honorary Secretary or Executive

Officer the names of its Delegates. Substitutes for such Delegates may be appointed on Notice being given to the Branch

Honorary Secretary or Executive Officer at or prior to the said meeting.

5.2 Each member of the Council shall during his term of office cease to be a Club Delegate.

6. ANNUAL AND SPECIAL MEETINGS

6.1 The Annual Meeting must be held before 31 December of each year.

6.2 The following shall be entitled to attend:

6.2.1 The Officers of the Branch

6.2.2 Elected members of the Council

6.2.3 Honorary Delegates of the Council

6.2.4 Club Delegates

6.2.5 Candidates for Election

6.2.6 Observers (by invitation only).

7. PROVINCIAL COUNCIL

7.1 The Council shall comprise the Officers, as outlined in Clause 3, and Eleven duly elected members. In addition

Honorary Delegates elected under Clause 18 shall be members of the Council.

7.2 In addition to the provisions of the Constitution shall determine the eligibility.

8. MEETINGS OF THE PROVINCIAL COUNCIL

8.1 A meeting of the Council shall be held prior to the Annual Meeting in sufficient time to consider the agenda for such

meeting. Other meetings of the Council may be called at the discretion of (a) Chairman, (b) the other Officers, or (c) any

Four voting members of the Council, to transact business.

9. VOTING

9.1 At each meeting of the Council, each member other than Honorary Delegates shall have a right to vote.

9.2 At each meeting of a sub-committee, each appointed or co-opted member shall have a right to vote.

9.3.1 At each meeting of the Branch, each voting member of the Provincial Council and each duly appointed Delegate of

the Clubs in the Province, in possession of Official Delegate’s Attendance Card, shall have a right to vote.

9.3.2 Each Affiliated Club represented at the meeting by individuals attending in accordance with Rule of 15

(Constitution) has a right to a weighted ballot, cast by one of their representatives. Each Affiliated Clubs ballot

will count for such number of votes that is equal to the delegate representation to which they are entitled in

accordance with Rule 15 (Constitution) irrespective of whether such number attend the meeting.

9.4 An outgoing officer other than the immediate Past Chairman and an outgoing member of the Council shall cease to

have any voting rights after the election of his successor unless he is taking the place of a delegate of his own Club elected

in his stead at the meeting.

9.5 A candidate for office shall not have any voting rights until his election unless he is an outgoing member of the Council

or a duly appointed delegate of a club.

9.6 METHOD OF VOTING - NON ELECTION.

Each decision at every meeting of the Branch, Council or any Committee or Sub-Committee shall be taken by a show of

hands, unless a poll is demanded or the Chairman of the meeting shall otherwise direct, when the voting shall be by secret

ballot and the Chairman shall appoint scrutinisers from among those present. A simple majority in all cases shall decide

unless otherwise prescribed.

9.7 METHOD OF VOTING – SECRET BALLOT

Each Affiliated Club represented at the meeting by individuals attending in accordance with Rule of 15

(Constitution) has a right to a weighted ballot, cast by one of their representatives. Each Affiliated Clubs ballot

will count for such number of votes that is equal to the delegate representation to which they are entitled in

accordance with Rule 15 (Constitution) irrespective of whether such number attend the meeting. Such delegate(s)

shall receive an envelope with the appropriate number of ballot papers applicable to their Club therein.

9.8 CASTING VOTE

At each Branch Annual or Special Meeting and at each Meeting of the Council or any Committee or Sub- Committee, the

Chairman (Convenor) shall, in addition to his deliberate vote, have and shall exercise a casting vote.

10. QUORUM

10.1 At each meeting of the Council, seven persons present and entitled to vote shall form a quorum.

10.2 At each meeting of a Committee or Sub-Committee, the quorum shall be as set out in the Duties and Terms of

Reference.

10.3 At each meeting of the Branch, twenty-one persons present and entitled to vote, one of whom shall be an Officer of

the Branch and of the other twenty at least one duly appointed delegate from five different Clubs in the Province shall

form a quorum.

11. ELECTIONS

11.1 Notice of the name of the person whom it is intended to nominate for election to the Council must be given in

writing to the Executive Officer of the Branch at least forty-two days prior to the Annual Meeting. An Officer or a

Member of the Council or a Candidate Club may give such Notice.

11.2 Details must be given e.g. Name, Address, Club and Office sought. In addition each name shall be formally proposed

and seconded by persons qualified to vote at the Annual Meeting.

11.3 For the purpose of any election voting papers containing a lesser or greater number of votes than there are vacancies

to be filled shall be invalid.

11.4 Notwithstanding Bye-Law 11.6, all elections shall be by Secret Ballot in accordance with Constitution Rule 37 and for

this purpose the Chairman shall appoint scrutinisers from amongst those present.

12. ORDER OF ELECTIONS / APPOINTMENTS

12.1 At each Annual Meeting of the Branch the following elections shall take place:-

(a) Chairman.

(b) Honorary Secretary.

(c) Honorary Treasurer.

(d) Eleven Members in accordance with Clause 7.1.

16.2 At each Annual Meeting of the Branch, the following appointments shall be made:-

(a) Auditor.

(b) Solicitor

13. DELEGATES TO UNION AGM

13.1 The Delegates to represent the Branch at the Union AGM for the ensuing year shall be the Chairman, as a Vice-

President of the Union, the Honorary Secretary, the Honorary Treasurer, and Two Elected Member of Council on a

rotational basis.

13.2 The Honorary Delegate's term shall be for one year only.

14. CHAIRMAN

14.1 At all meetings of the Branch and of the Council, the Branch Chairman shall preside. In his absence an Officer of the

Branch shall preside. Should none of these persons be present the Meeting shall be abandoned.

14.2 The Chairman shall, in addition to his deliberative vote have and shall exercise a casting vote.

14.3 The Chairman shall undertake to see that the Branch is represented at all Championship Events in the Province.

14.4 The Chairman shall retire annually but shall be eligible for re-election. He shall not serve in that capacity for more

than four consecutive years’.

14.5 Provided that it is not in contravention of a decision of Council, the Chairman, together with the other Officers, is

empowered to make day to day decisions on matters which require urgent attention.

15. HONORARY SECRETARY

15.1 The Honorary Secretary shall be responsible for the finalisation of all minutes prepared by the Executive Officer,

and have overall authority for all correspondence issued from the Branch Office. No notice or document of any kind shall

be issued by the Branch except by his authority and with the concurrence of the Chairman of the Branch. He shall have

access to all documents belonging to the Branch and shall submit to the Annual Meeting a report of the Branch's activities

during the preceding twelve months.

15.2 In the absence of the Branch Executive Officer, he shall have custody of all property and documents belonging to

the Branch.

15.3 The Honorary Secretary shall retire annually but shall be eligible for re-election. He shall not serve in that capacity for

more than four consecutive years.

16. HONORARY TREASURER

16.1 He shall have responsibility for the financial affairs of the Branch.

16.2 He shall keep full and detailed accounts, books and records showing the financial affairs, receipts and disbursements

of the Branch. He shall submit an audited statement of accounts up to 30th September of each year, the end of the

financial year of the Branch.

16.3 He shall submit all Statements of Account to the Council as may be required from time to time.

16.4 All cheques shall be signed by the Honorary Treasurer and the Chairman except in the extended absence of either,

the Executive Officer or Honorary Secretary may substitute.

16.5 The Banking Account shall be kept in the name of the Branch in such Bank as the Council may from time to time

determine. The Council shall have absolute control and discretion as to all investments of Branch funds.

16.6 He shall pay such expenses as may be authorised by the Council and properly incurred by the Branch.

16.7 He shall retire annually but shall be eligible for re-election. He shall not serve in that capacity for more than four

consecutive years.

17. TRUSTEES

17.1 All property of the Connacht Branch of the Golfing Union of Ireland shall vest in the four Trustees who shall be

appointed by the Council and who shall be responsible for the property of the Connacht Branch of the Golfing Union of

Ireland by acquisition, sale or mortgage or in any manner directed by resolution of the Council.

17.2 Each Trustee shall be entitled to attend any meeting of the Council in his capacity as Trustee but in such capacity shall

not have a vote.

17.3 Each Trustee, their Executors and Successors, shall be indemnified by the Connacht Branch of the Golfing Union of

Ireland against losses and expenses which he may incur or for which he may become liable by reason of his acting as a

Trustee.

17.4 The Council shall have power by resolution to remove from such office any Trustee if the Council in its absolute

discretion considers it to be necessary or desirable in the interests of the Connacht Branch of the Golfing Union of Ireland

to do so.

17.5 If a vacancy should occur in the number of Trustees by removal, resignation or death, the number of Trustees shall

be restored to four at the next meeting of the Council.

18. HONORARY DELEGATES

18.1 The Council may elect as Honorary Delegates, without voting rights, not more than six persons who have given

outstanding services to golf.

18.2 An Honorary Delegate to Central Council shall be an Honorary Delegate to Council without voting rights.

18.3 An Honorary Delegate may be elected by the Council as a member of a Committee or Sub-Committee or as a

representative of the Council and if so appointed shall be entitled to vote at all meetings of the Committee, Sub-

Committee or Body to which he has been elected.

19. EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND STAFF

19.1 The Council is empowered to appoint an Executive Officer and such additional staff as is considered necessary to

carry out the duties of the Branch

20. AUDITOR & SOLICITOR

20.1 The Branch shall appoint a Registered Auditor and a Solicitor currently on the Roll of Solicitors for Ireland at the

Annual Meeting on the nomination of the Council.

21. CHAMPIONSHIPS AND TOURNAMENTS

21.1 The Council shall, subject to the Rules and Regulations of the Union, have under its control and management the

following events, and shall prescribe the conditions there for:-

(a) The Connacht Provincial Sections of all Union Competitions.

(b) West of Ireland Amateur Open Championship.

(c) Connacht Seniors' Amateur Open Championship.

(d) Connacht Strokeplay Amateur Open Championship.

(e) Connacht Mid Amateur Open Championship.

(f) Connacht Boys' U18 Amateur Open Championship.

(g) Connacht Boys’ U16 Amateur Open Championship.

(h) Connacht Boys’ U14 Amateur Open Championship

(i) Connacht U12, U14, U16 & U18 Boys Close Championship.

(j) Boys U18 Kenny Cup Tournament.

(k) Connacht Boys U16 Inter Club

(l) Fred Daly ‘Plate’ Matchplay

(m)Connacht U15 Schools Development Championship

(n) Connacht Shield.

(o) Jack O’Sullivan Trophy Fourball Tournament.

(p) Nine Hole Course Inter Club.

(q) Senior Inter Club Fourball Tournament.

(r) Any other event, which the Council decides, should be under the control of the Branch.

22. CONDITIONS, ENTRY FEES & FINES

22.1 The Council shall settle and from time to time revise the Conditions, Entry Fees and Fines of any Tournament of

which it has absolute control.

23. FILLING VACANCIES ON COUNCIL

23.1 If, during the year, a vacancy shall occur in the Officers or Delegates of the Branch, the Council shall have power to

appoint, if deemed necessary, a substitute who shall hold office until the next Annual Meeting of the Branch, when he shall

retire, but shall be eligible for election.

24. SUB - COMMITTEES

24.1 Without prejudice to the powers of the Branch, the Council may appoint Sub-Committees for the more convenient

discharge of business but such Sub-Committees shall have no power to commit the Branch to any expenditure or liability

without the direct authority of the Council previously obtained.

24.2 The Boys and Senior Selection Committees and Team Captains will be appointed annually by the Connacht Provincial

Council.

25. TERMS OF REFERENCE

25.1 The Council shall have power from time to time to make such Terms of Reference as it considers necessary and to

alter and repeal the same

26. STANDARD SCRATCH SCORE AND HANDICAPING SCHEME

26.1 The Council shall supervise and administer the Standard Scratch Score and Handicapping Scheme, as prescribed by

the CONGU.

27. COURSE RATING

27.1 The Council shall supervise and administer the Course Rating in a manner prescribed by the Unified Handicapping

System.

28. AMENDMENT OF BYE-LAWS

28.1 The Branch shall have power from time to time to make Bye-Laws governing the Clubs and their members but each

such Bye-Law shall be subject to ratification by the Union.

28.2 To amend or add to any of the provisions hereof, either by way of addition, alteration, repeal or otherwise

howsoever, the consent of at least two thirds of the members of the Branch present using their franchise shall be

required.

28.3 Any motion to amend the Bye-Laws must be proposed in accordance with Clause 34 of the Constitution.

For approval by Branch ADM, November 2017.

Breaffy Business Centre, Breaffy, Castlebar, County Mayo, F23 C674

T. +353 (0)94 9028141 F. +353 (0)94 9028143 E. [email protected] W. www.golfnet.ie

Chairman: Jim McGovern Hon. Secretary: Michael Heaney Hon. Treasurer: Michael Evans

Enda Lonergan,

Executive Officer.

10 November 2017.

To: Hon. Secretary of all Connacht Golf affiliated Clubs of the GUI.

Re.: 2017 Annual Delegates’ Meeting, November 28, 2017.

Dear Hon. Secretary,

Please find enclosed all of the required documentation which you need to make your Club Committee and more

importantly those Delegates attending the meeting on behalf of your Club on 28 November aware of.

Please note that there are two distinct meetings on the evening and therefore punctuality of those attending would be

gratefully appreciated.

1. 7.00pm Special Delegates’ Meeting to adopt changes to the Bye laws of the Connacht Branch GUI;

2. 7.30pm Annual Delegates’ Meeting to conduct the business of Connacht Golf for 2017 and the year ahead 2018

with respect to Election of Officers and Committee and casting votes in respect of Motions for Decision before the

meeting.

With regarding the Voting in Elections and on the Motions before the meeting please refer to the notes preceding each

section on the Agenda document.

Clubs shall receive envelopes in respect of the Election of Chairman, Election of Hon. Secretary, Election of Council

Delegates and Notice of Motion on their way into the meeting. These shall contain the Ballot paper required for your

Club to cast their weighted vote.

Voting shall be conducted using the new weighted voting method (approved at the GUI AGM in February 2017);

please note, therefore, that a Club may not split its vote and any Club represented at the meeting may cast their

full vote (1, 2, 3, or 4 depending upon size of their membership) even if they have fewer delegates attending the

meeting.

The results of votes on motions of national relevance will be published on Friday 1st December, following the

conclusion of voting at the four Annual Delegates’ Meetings, the previous night.

Voting Papers:

YELLOW = 1 vote, BLUE = 2 votes, GREEN = 3 votes & RED = 4 votes

Should anyone wish any clarity on this then feel free to contact me in advance of the meeting, I may not be able to assist

you on arrival at the meeting itself due to other responsibilities attached to the meeting.

“CLUBS TO DECIDE ON INTER-CLUB PROPOSALS”

A series of questions will be put to clubs on changes to current inter-club events and the introduction of new

competitions to broaden appeal at this year’s Annual Delegates’ Meetings (ADMs) in November.

The proposals for change, which will ultimately be decided upon by the Union’s member clubs at these meetings, come

after a lengthy review process which involved a survey of 4,000 golfers, a focus group of 12 golf club members and a

series of internal discussions between the Provincial Councils and the Union’s Rules & Competitions Committee.

Breaffy Business Centre, Breaffy, Castlebar, County Mayo, F23 C674

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Chairman: Jim McGovern Hon. Secretary: Michael Heaney Hon. Treasurer: Michael Evans

In an acknowledgement of the competitive gulf between the AIG Senior and AIG Junior Cups and the evolution of

standards in these competitions since their introduction over 100 years ago, the Connacht, Leinster and Munster

Provincial Councils will ask clubs to vote on a change in the handicap limit of the AIG Junior Cup from 5 to 4.

The Connacht and Munster Provincial Councils will also propose a series of motions seeking to introduce concomitant

changes in the other handicap-based competitions, in which the AIG Jimmy Bruen Shield individual handicap limit would

be lowered from 6 to 5, with the minimum combined handicap to be lowered from 17 to 15. A further proposal from

the Munster and Connacht Councils would lower the AIG Pierce Purcell Shield individual handicap limit from 12 to 11,

with the maximum combined handicap to be lowered from 27 to 25.

The final of these handicap-based motions will also ask clubs to vote on changes to the GUI All-Ireland Four-Ball

competition, lowering the individual handicap limit from 16 to 15 and that of the pair from 36 to 34.

The Leinster Provincial Council will propose a motion seeking to amend the format of the Pierce Purcell Shield from

Foursomes to Scotch Foursomes, a format where two players play from the tee with the better tee-shot then being

selected and alternate shots being played from then until the completion of the hole.

In addition, the Leinster, Ulster and Connacht Provincial Councils will co-sponsor a motion seeking the introduction of

a new All-Ireland inter-club competition for over-55s, while the Leinster and Connacht Councils will join together to

propose a motion to introduce a new All-Ireland inter-club nett competition for junior golfers under 18 years of age,

which would replace the current Junior Foursomes competition.

The Provincial Councils have published specific rationales for the motions being proposed ahead of the meetings at

which the votes will be taken. All in all, however, the motions seek to respond to an identified need for new

competitions to appeal more broadly to the golfing population while enhancing the competitive profile of the current

events.

Golf Club Committees are encouraged to discuss the proposed changes – and indeed were encouraged to propose

their own should they have views on how the events should change. The deadline for submission has now elapsed for

such submissions..

The changes will be voted on under a new voting system this year, with every club casting one ballot weighted based on

the number of delegates they are entitled to send to the meeting.

In a departure from previous years, every single vote cast at each of the four Annual Delegates’ Meetings will be

counted and the overall result will determine whether these changes are introduced.

We look forward to seeing you all in Claremorris on Tuesday November 28.

Yours truly, Enda Lonergan

Enda Lonergan, Executive Officer.

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GOLFING UNION OF IRELAND

2017

CONNACHT BRANCH

ANNUAL DELEGATES MEETING

Notice is hereby given that the ninety-second Annual Delegates Meeting of the Connacht Branch of the

Golfing Union of Ireland will be held at the McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris on Tuesday November 28,

2017 at 7.30pm sharp.

Michael Heaney Enda Lonergan

------------------------------------- --------------------------------

Michael Heaney Enda Lonergan

Honorary Secretary Executive Officer

Connacht Branch Golfing Union of Ireland

Breaffy Business Centre

Breaffy

Castlebar

Co. Mayo Tel. 094 – 9028141

Fax. 094 – 9028143

Email: [email protected]

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2017 Delegate Representation of Clubs

Each Club shall be entitled to Delegate Representation on the Branch in proportion to the number of Members in respect of whom Union

Subscriptions and Provincial Levies have been paid as stated in its last Annual Return to the Union, and according to the following scale:

(a) Up to 100 Members One Delegate

(b) From 101 to 200 Members Two Delegates

(c) From 201 to 400 Members Three Delegates

(d) From 401 Members and Up Four Delegates

(e) University Club One Delegate (non Voting)

(f) Newly Affiliated Club One Delegate

The List hereunder indicates the number of Delegates entitled to attend at the A.D.M. of the Connacht Branch, G.U.I. on

November 28, 2017, as per Poll Tax Returns made to the Union by each affiliated Club in 2017 and provided to the Connacht

Branch GUI by GUI National Office on September 8, 2017.

Club 2017 +/- wrt 2016 Delegate(s) Provincial Council

Achill Island (100) - 5 1*

Athenry (528) - 33 4 Athlone (324) - 9 3 Ballaghaderreen (65) - 11 1

Ballina (198) - 7 2* Ballinamore (141) - 19 2 OFFICERS Ballinasloe (319) - 12 3 Jim McGovern (Castlebar), Chairman

Ballinrobe (290) - 35 3 Michael Heaney (Oughterard), Hon. Secretary Ballyhaunis (116) - 8 2 Michael Evans (Athlone), Hon. Treasurer Ballymote (63) - 3 1 Bearna (147) - 4 2 ORDINARY DELEGATES

Belmullet (134) - 8 2 Richard Canavan (Tuam) Boyle (107) - 13 2 John Durcan (Co. Sligo)

Ck-on-Shannon (182) + 20 2 Matt Donohue (Portumna)

Castlebar (342) + 15 3 Jimmy Duggan (Galway) Castle Dargan (67) - 18 1 John MacDonagh (Castlebar) Castlerea (180) - 38 2* Niall MacSweeney (Athenry)

Claremorris (209) - 9 3 Cathal McConn (Roscommon) Connemara (225) - 28 3 Nicky McLoughlin (Ballina) Connemara Isles (72) + 4 1 Jim Mooney (Boyle)

Co. Sligo (428) + 9 4 John O’Donoghue (Strandhill) Cregmore Park (258) - 65 3 Tony Slevin (Loughrea) Curra West (56) + 1 1

Dunmore Demesne (97) - 12 1* Enniscrone (227) - 12 3 HONORARY DELEGATES (Non-voting) Galway (789) - 12 4 Tommie Basquille (Strandhill) Galway Bay (237) + 12 3 Michael Butler (Athlone)

Glenlo Abbey (125) + 8 2 Michael Connaughton (Roscommon) Gort (310) - 37 3 Gar Golden (Westport) Loughrea (420) - 4 4 Fred Perry (Co. Sligo)

Mountbellew (259) - 27 3 Eugene Fayne (Athlone) Mulranny (105) + 6 2^

NUIG (0) ------ 1 (Non Voting)

Oughterard (470) - 69 4 EXECUTIVE OFFICER (Non-voting) Portumna (394) + 72 3 Enda Lonergan (Westport) Roscommon (260) + 1 3

Strandhill (347) - 3 3 Strokestown (119) + 12 2 Swinford (84) - 6 1

Tubbercurry (141) + 11 2 Tuam (271) + 7 3 Westport (270) - 14 3 Total Members (9824) - 348 - 3

Legend: * Decrease in Delegate Voting Number = 1; ^ Increase in Delegate Voting Number = 1;

Total Club Delegates Voting Number – 100;

Total Provincial Council Voting No. – 14; Total number of eligible Votes for the 2017 A.D.M. = 114.

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THE CONNACHT BRANCH, G.U.I. ANNUAL DELEGATES’ MEETING 2017

NOVEMBER 28 AT THE MCWILLIAM PARK HOTEL, CLAREMORRIS AT 7.30PM

AGENDA

1. Read Notice convening the Meeting.

2. Confirm and Sign the Minutes of the 2016 Annual Delegates’ Meeting of November 29, 2016 (as

enclosed herewith).

3. Matters Arising.

4. Apologies.

5. 2017 “FORE GOLF” Connacht Golf Awards.

Junior Golfer of the Year (Under 14) – Thomas Higgins (Roscommon)

Junior Golfer of the Year (Under 16) – Darren Leufer (Athenry)

Junior Golfer of the Year (Under 18) – Ross Kelly (Tuam)

Senior Golfer of the Year – Alex Gleeson (Castle)

Veteran Golfer of the Year – Liam Halpin (Westport)

Best Tournament Venue of the Year – Announcement at the Meeting

Services to Connacht Golf Award – Announcement at the Meeting

6. Presentation to Leslie Robinson PGA on his retirement as Provincial Coach.

7. Address of Branch Chairman (Jim McGovern).

8. Report of Branch Hon. Secretary (as enclosed herewith).

9. Report of the Convenor of Junior Golf (as enclosed herewith).

10. Report of Branch Hon. Treasurer (as enclosed herewith Audited Accounts for Financial Year ended

September 30, 2016). Consider and if thought fit, adopt the Annual Report & Statement of Accounts.

11. Election of Chairman.

Nomination received –

Mr. John Durcan (Co. Sligo) By Co. Sligo G.C.;

Mr. Michael Heaney (Oughterard) By Oughterard G.C.;

12. One Governing Body Statement followed by Q & A.

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13. Election of Hon. Secretary.

Nominations received –

Mr. Jimmy Duggan (Galway) By Galway G.C.;

Mr. Michael Evans (Athlone) By Athlone G.C.

14. Election of Hon. Treasurer.

Nomination received –

Mr. Niall MacSweeney By Athenry G.C.;

15. Nomination of President Elect Designate of the Golfing Union of Ireland

Nomination received –

Mr. Jim McGovern (Castlebar) By Provincial Council;

16 .Appointment of Auditors.

Nomination received – RBK, Athlone By Provincial Council;

17. Appointment of Solicitor.

Nomination received – Daniel McGrath, Tuam By Provincial Council

18. Election of Delegates to Connacht Provincial Council (11 Vacancies).

Nominations received (In alphabetical Order):

Nominee Proposed By

Ordinary Delegates (11)

1. Richard Canavan (Tuam) Tuam

2. David Dent (Co. Sligo)*^ Co. Sligo

3. Matt Donohue (Portumna) Portumna

4. Jimmy Duggan (Galway) Galway

5. John Durcan (Co. Sligo)^”# Co. Sligo 6. Michael Evans (Athlone)# Athlone

7. Patrick Horkan (Westport)* Westport

8. Martin Hynes (Athenry)* Athenry

9. John MacDonagh (Castlebar) Castlebar

10. Cathal McConn (Roscommon) Roscommon

11. Nicky McLoughlin (Ballina) Ballina

12. Jim Mooney (Boyle) Boyle

13. Peter Murphy (Galway Bay)* Galway Bay

14. John O’Donoghue (Strandhill) Strandhill

15. Tony Slevin (Loughrea) Loughrea

* Not currently a member of Council

^ In the event of J Durcan failing to be elected Chairman, David Dent shall be withdrawn as a nominee by Co.

Sligo.

# In the event that any of – John Durcan, Michael Evans and Jimmy Duggan securing a position as an Officer

following the election process, then their names shall be withdrawn from those running for a position as an

Ordinary Delegate.

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19. Inter Provincial Team Captain’s Reports Senior: Mr. Diarmuid Caulfield (as circulated herewith).

U14: Mr. John O’Donoghue (as circulated herewith).

U16: Mr. Kevin Henry (as circulated herewith).

U18: Mr. Sean Fitzgerald (as circulated herewith).

NOTICES OF MOTION of National Relevance for DECISION

Voting shall be conducted using the new weighted voting method (approved at the GUI AGM in

February 2017); please note, therefore, that a Club may not split its vote and any Club represented at

the meeting may cast their full vote (1, 2, 3, or 4 depending upon size of their membership) even if

they have fewer delegates attending the meeting.

The results of votes on motions of national relevance will be published on Friday 1st December, following the conclusion of voting at the four Annual Delegates’ Meetings, the previous night.

Voting Papers:

YELLOW = 1 vote, BLUE = 2 votes, GREEN = 3 votes & RED = 4 votes

Background;

In 2016 the GUI conducted an extensive player survey on the Cups & Shields Competitions, the results of

which have been circulated to all clubs – if you require a further copy, please contact the Branch Office.

The results of this survey were then reviewed by a group of 12 Club competition convenors, three of whom were nominated by each Province.

Each Provincial Council then considered the proposed changes and the feedback from the Club

competition convenors and those who saw merit in each, have appended their name to the motions listed

below. As such, it is now a matter for clubs to decide on the merit of each and vote accordingly.

As each province agreed that Caddies be banned from the AIG Jimmy Bruen Shield and AIG Pierce Purcell

Shield, this change will be enacted for 2018.

20. Proposed by the Leinster Provincial Council

“That the form of play for the AIG Pierce Purcell Shield be modified to Scotch Foursomes”.

Rationale: In a GUI survey of 4,400 golfers and subsequent work carried out by a focus group consisting

of representatives from clubs in each province it was found that the Pierce Purcell ranked second lowest

of the six main competitions included in the survey with regard to the appropriateness of its current form

of play. The feedback received in the survey indicated a significant number of respondents favoured a

move to Scotch Foursomes as a more attractive format for club golfers,

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21. Proposed by the Leinster, Connacht and Ulster Provincial Councils

“Effective 2019, that the Union introduce a new All-Ireland Seniors Inter-Club team event for

golfers over the age of 55”

Rationale: To provide an age exclusive competitive All Ireland Inter Club event for those who are

amongst the largest age profile grouping within our Golf Clubs, i.e. the 55s and over.

22. Proposed by the Leinster and Connacht Provincial Councils

“That the Union introduce a new nett Under-18 Inter-Club event for five-man teams with full

handicaps applying, to replace the Irish Junior Foursomes”

Rationale: For some time the Union and its Branches have been considering the introduction of a non-

elite junior golf event to run in parallel with the Fred Daly Trophy. The Branches proposing this motion

wish for this competition to replace the Irish Junior Foursomes, which – while a nett competition –

possesses a similar handicap profile to that of the Fred Daly Trophy. This can be attributed to the upper

handicap limit imposed in the event and also, crucially, the form of play (foursomes). The proposed

competition would therefore encourage non-elite junior golfers to a greater degree and broaden the

competitive horizon for both the juniors and their golf clubs.

23. Proposed by Cregmore Park Golf Club

“In the event of Motion 22 being carried, that the Irish Junior Foursomes be immediately

reintroduced by the GUI.”

Rationale: Cregmore Park Golf Club believe the that Irish Junior Foursomes is a unique event that has

no equivalent in the Junior calendar and removing it would deny Juniors the opportunity of competing in a compelling and challenging event that gives them invaluable competitive experience. We are very

supportive of an additional National handicapped event for U18’s as proposed but preferably not at the

expense of the Irish Junior Foursomes.

24. Proposed by the Leinster, Munster and Connacht Provincial Councils

“That the lower handicap limit of the AIG Junior Cup be reduced from 5 to 4 effective 2018”.

Rationale: While this motion has been proposed from time to time by golf clubs in the past, the review

process which the Union has undertaken has highlighted a significant need for reform of the conditions of

the Junior Cup. In the survey of 4,400 golfers, the Junior Cup ranks lowest of the six competitions both in

terms of satisfaction with the rules of the event and the form of play. Moreover, when the Junior Cup was

first established in 1900, the variance between a Junior and Senior Cup player was almost non-existent;

now it has grown to such an extent as to create a vacuum whereby a significant cohort (estimated at 2,500

golfers nationwide) play off handicaps which are not competitive at Senior Cup level and at the same time

not eligible to play in Junior Cup. It has been decided to propose 4 as the new limit for the Junior Cup in

line with the limit established by many clubs which organise Junior Scratch Cups. It is believed that moving

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with the times will enhance the overall quality of the event while at the same time doing so in such a

measured way will continue to ensure the level of competition in the Junior Cup will not diminish.

25. Proposed by the Munster and Connacht Provincial Councils

(Rationale for three motions taken together)

“That, in the AIG Jimmy Bruen Shield, the handicap limits be adjusted as follows effective 2018:

Lowest individual reduced from 6 to 5

Lowest combined reduced from 17 to 15”

Proposed by the Munster & Connacht Provincial Councils

26. Proposed by the Munster and Connacht Provincial Councils

(Rationale for three motions taken together)

“That, in the AIG Pierce Purcell Shield, the handicap limits be adjusted as follows effective 2018:

Lowest individual reduced from 12 to 11

Lowest combined reduced from 27 to 25”

27. Proposed by the Munster and Connacht Provincial Councils

(Rationale for three motions taken together)

“That, in the GUI Four-Ball Inter-Club Championship, the handicap limits be adjusted as follows

effective 2018:

Lowest individual reduced from 16 to 15 Lowest combined reduced from 36 to 34”

Rationale: The rationale for these three motions is shared – while these are separately proposed and will

be separately voted upon, they share the spirit of the motion on the Junior Cup, reflecting the massive

growth in the golfing population since these competitions were first instituted. The proposals here also

respond to a significant proportion of the feedback from the survey of 4,400 golfers, and was among a

number of possible strategies suggested by the Focus Group of 12 golf club members in GUI Headquarters

in January 2017.

28. Proposed by Skibbereen Golf Club

“That the competitors qualifying handicap in the AIG Junior Cup, AIG Jimmy Bruen Shield, AIG

Pierce Purcell Shield, Irish Mixed Foursomes Challenge Cup and GUI All Ireland Four-Ball Inter

Club Championship be the handicap recorded as at 31st December in the previous calendar year,

as opposed to being the competitor’s lowest handicap achieved in the previous calendar year”.

Rationale: At present a competitor’s qualifying handicap for the above tournaments is based on the lowest

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handicap achieved in the preceding year. This has resulted in a situation where a player could be cut in

handicap for just one day and that in turn effectively renders the player ineligible for the following year

from the competition relevant to the player’s handicap range. This has a very negative impact on a Club

of our size because of the limited number of playing members available for selection for teams for such

competitions.

This could not be construed as an opportunity for a player to build a handicap for such competitions

because of the current rules and regulations which limit a player to receiving a maximum of one shot on

the player’s lowest handicap achieved in the previous calendar year

29. Proposed by Temple Golf Club

“That the conditions of the GUI All-Ireland Four-Ball Inter-Club championship be amended so

that, for the purpose of determining the eligibility of a pair, the sum of their exact handicaps –

and not their playing handicaps – shall be calculated as per the handicap qualification criteria set

down in those conditions”.

Rationale: The club considers that the current rules of the competition which allows for the rounding of

each player's handicap before they are added together create an anomaly whereby a pair with, for

example, exact handicaps of 17.2 & 18.3, could not play together even though their combined exact

handicap was 35.5 (36).

By adding the two exact handicaps together, before any rounding takes place, will ensure that this anomaly

no longer exists and will be understood by all competing clubs, which in our opinion is not the case under

the current rules.

30. Proposed by Lisburn Golf Club

“To seek to amend, within CONGU, the last sentence before clause 23.16 Continuous Handicap Review, as follows;

To assist in identifying such players, a report has been developed within the ISV software to list players

who have seven or more consecutive scores above the buffer zone (excluding any Reduction Only CSS

competitions or abandoned competitions)”.

Rationale: The preamble of Section 23 (D) clearly recognises the need to identify players of declining

ability and that application of the 0.1 increase per round may be insufficient to reflect a deterioration in

scoring potential. Section 23 (D) further recognises, as a result, a player may lose interest in competing,

and the concern is addressed by a report within the software which lists players who have seven or more

consecutive 0.1 increases so that the Handicap Committee can address the situation if necessary.

However, there is an issue that under CONGU section 4.5 (c), Ireland restricts increases of the lowest

Exact Handicap to 1.0 stroke in a calendar year. Therefore, as an example, if a player starts with a

minimum of 4 x 0.1 increases and then has one score within his buffer zone, he can only receive a further 6

or less 0.1 increases, and the software will NOT identify his performance. A player could return 20

consecutive scores above his buffer zone and still not be recognised by the software or flagged to the

Handicap Committee.

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The current wording, therefore, does not address the known problem and should be amended, and the

change effected in computer software specified in Appendix H.

31. Proposed by Warrenpoint Golf Club

“That the following tournament conditions be amended to increase the minimum number

of returns required, in the previous calendar year, from Four to Ten, to be effective from 1

January 2019:

2.c – AIG Junior Cup, 2.c – AIG Jimmy Bruen Shield, 2.d – AIG Pierce Purcell Shield, 2.d –

Irish Mixed Foursomes Challenge Cup & 2.d - GUI All-Ireland Four-Ball Inter-Club

Championship”.

Rationale: Four qualifying competitions is not enough to truly reflect a competitive golfers’ ability over

the full season. If a player is going to represent their club in an inter-club competition, they should be

playing qualifying golf on a regular basis. The club considers that playing a minimum of ten qualifying

competitions a year would give a more accurate reflection of that player's playing ability.

NOTICES OF ITEMS of National Relevance for DISCUSSION

At the discretion of the Chairman or if so requested by the Meeting a raising of voting cards may be called for so as to enable the Chairman to represent the agreed point of view of Connacht’s clubs at

the next Board meeting of the GUI.

32. Proposed by Connacht Provincial Council

In lieu of the possibility of the Union introducing an All Ireland Seniors Inter Club in 2019 pending the

outcome of Motion 20 before tonight’s meeting the Connacht Provincial Council wishes to present the

existing Connacht Seniors Over 55’s Inter Club and its conditions as a proposed format for such an event

to seek the views and opinions of the Connacht Club Delegates, so as to be better informed when the

National Rules and Competitions committee meets to draw up Tournament Conditions, as is its

prerogative, should motion 21 be successful.

NOTICES OF MOTION of Provincial Relevance for Decision

Voting shall be conducted using the new weighted voting method (approved at the GUI AGM in

February 2017); please note, therefore, that a Club may not split its vote and any Club represented at

the meeting may cast their full vote (1, 2, 3, or 4 depending upon size of their membership) even if

they have fewer delegates attending the meeting.

Voting Papers:

YELLOW = 1 vote, BLUE = 2 votes, GREEN = 3 votes & RED = 4 votes

Discretion has been left with each Province if they wish to permit casting of votes by raising Voting

Cards at each provincial annual delegate’s meeting.

If so requested by the meeting voting on motions of provincial relevance may be by secret ballot.

The results of such motions shall be announced to the delegates prior to the conclusion of the

meeting.

There are no such Motions before the Meeting.

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NOTICES OF ITEMS of Provincial Relevance for DISCUSSION

At the discretion of the Chairman or if so requested by the Meeting a raising of voting cards may be

called for so as to enable to the Provincial Council to be cognisant of the majority view of its affiliated

Clubs when the discussion item is being considered at its next meeting. The view expressed by the

meeting is in no way binding on the Provincial Council.

33. Proposed by County Sligo Golf Club

“The four provincial semi-finalists in the AIG Pierce Purcell Shield and AIG Jimmy Bruen Shield

events will in future be determined by a Strokeplay Qualifier rather than the Matchplay format

which pertains at present”.

Rationale: Cost to Clubs reduced; Matchplay format is too demanding on players and club officials’ time;

Some clubs are encountering difficulty in securing sufficient players to fulfil fixtures.

34. Proposed by County Sligo Golf Club

“The provincial semi-finals and provincial final of each of the AIG Senior Cup, AIG Barton Shield

and AIG Junior Cup should, where practicable, be played on the same day”.

Rationale: To reduce the costs to Clubs, particularly beaten semi-finalists, who quite often pre pay in

advance for overnight accommodation which is ultimately not availed of.

35. Any Other Business (with permission of Chairman).

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Minutes of the Annual Delegates Meeting of the Connacht Branch, Golfing Union of Ireland on

Tuesday November 29th, 2016 at 7.30pm in the McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris.

Chairperson: Mr. Jim McGovern (Branch Chairman).

Present: Provincial Council – Michael Heaney (Hon. Secretary); Michael Evans (Hon. Treasurer); R.

Canavan, M. Donohue, J. Duggan, J. Mooney, N. MacSweeney, C. McConn, N. McLoughlin, P.

Murphy, J. O’Donoghue, T. Slevin, T. Basquille, E. Fayne, F. Perry, (All Provincial Council);

Club Delegates – M. Hynes, P. Duane, N. Ivers, & B Hutchinson (Athenry); T. Donohue, A.

Kelly & B. O’Faolain (Athlone); P. McDonagh (Ballaghaderreen); N. Dee, E. Harney & T. Cooke

(Ballina); J. Power & D Flynn (Ballinasloe); O. Walsh, J. Gaynor & C. Mellotte (Ballinrobe); M.

McDermott & T. Grennan (Ballyhaunis); T. Cunnigham & T. Flaherty (Bearna); G. Maguire

(Belmullet), B. Gaffney & G. O’Hara (Boyle); A. Noone & L. Bruen (Carrick-on-Shannon); F.

Murray, N. Burke, S. Flynn & J. McHale (Castlebar); E. Carroll (Castle Dargan); D. Bruen, L.

Walsh & G. McDonagh (Castlerea); N. Grier, A. Garvin & J. Corless (Claremorris); J. Keyes, T.

Cunnigham, T. Horkan & K. Flanagan (Co. Sligo); J. Costello, T. Forde & T. Curran (Cregmore

Park); P. Connolly & P. McDonnell (Dunmore Demesne); E. Loftus, L. Hallinan & J. Helly

(Enniscrone); M. Conroy, P. Whelan, P. Duffy & S. Hosty (Galway); S. Keenan, Ml. Scanlon & D.

Devery (Galway Bay); Ml. Dawson & J. Murphy (Glenlo Abbey); A. Elder, J. Dempsey & C.

Grealish (Gort); F. Murray, N. McGahon, N. Tierney & T. Walsh (Loughrea); D. Killeen, Ml.

Conneely & R. Moore (Mountbellew); F. Rothwell (Mulranny); J. Carr, S. Rankin & Ml. Lee

(Oughterard); Ml. Keyes, J. Slattery & P. Healy (Portumna); P. McNally, T. Costello & C.

McDonnell (Roscommon); L. McNally, H. Gallagher & A. Skeffington (Strandhill); H. Campbell &

F. Costelloe (Strokestown); J. O’Donnell (Swinford); G. Mannigan & Ml. Gorman(Tubbercurry);

D. McGrath (Tuam); and L. Halpin, M. Whitelaw & S. Fitzgerald (Westport).

In Attendance: Enda Lonergan (Executive Officer, Connacht Golf), Daniel McGrath (Branch Solicitor); Justin

O’Byrne (Confederation of Golf in Ireland); Michael Connaughton (President, GUI 2015), Sean Fitzgerald (BIP U18 Captain Connacht), Diarmuid Caulfield (SIP Captain Connacht).

Observers: Parents of Award Winners, Michael Butler (Athlone), Joe Hurl (Ballaghaderreen), Peter Murphy

(Galway Bay), N. Walsh (Castle Dargan) and Patsy Noone (Mulranny).

Apologies: J. Durcan, John McDonagh, Gar Golden & Tom Grealy (all Provincial Council); Alex Gleeson

(Castle), P. Geraghty (BIP U14 Captain), K. Henry (BIP U16 Captain), Derek Murray (Fore

Golf);

Absent: Achill, Ballinamore, Ballymote, Connemara, Connemara Isles, Curra West, & NUIG.

Notice Convening the Meeting. Michael Heaney (Hon. Secretary) read the notice convening the Annual

Meeting after which at the request of the Chairman the Meetings was upstanding and observed a minutes

silence in respect of all those associated with Connacht Golf and Connacht Golf Clubs who had passed away

since the 2015 ADM.

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Minutes of Annual Delegates Meeting, November 24, 2015

Having been previously circulated the 2015 Minutes were taken as read. There being no amendments from

those at the meeting, the minutes went to the meeting for adoption and on the proposal of Jim Mooney

(Provincial Council)) and seconding of Jimmy Duggan (Provincial Council) the minutes were adopted and duly

signed by the Chairman.

Matters Arising

The Chairman invited Convenor of Venues & Fixtures, Niall MacSweeney, to update the meeting on the

changes arising to 2017 events following from the discussion items adopted at the 2015 ADM.

Mr. MacSweeney outlined the following four key points –

A 9 Hole Inter Club has been approved by the GUI for inclusion into the Connacht Inter Clubs

calendar for 2017 and twelve of the 14 Clubs have entered. All 14 Clubs engaged in a consultation

process in the development of the format and timetabling of the event and they were thanked for their

excellent contributions.

The Connacht Shield shall be reduced from a 10 man event with five Foursomes matches to a 7 man event with three Singles and two Foursomes in 2017 to accommodate the desire from Clubs wishing

to see Team sizes reduced to difficulty in fielding teams. The side drawn first shall host the three

singles matches with the two foursomes matches played as the Away leg.

Arising from the request to change the regular Zones which Clubs find themselves in annually the

Branch is using the Seniors Inter Club to freshen up the Zones, which will be referred to as Zones A,

B, C & D as they are not geographically specific unlike the other events.

Having taken feedback and monitored the use of Sundays for Inter Club matches the Venues & Fixtures Committee are withdrawing the option of using Sundays for matches with all weekend

matches now requiring completion on a Saturday, including the Fred Daly.

There were no other matters arising raised.

2016 Connacht Golf Awards

The Chairman acknowledged the contribution again in 2016 of the Sponsor of the Order of Merit Awards,

Derek Murray (FORE GOLF) who had sent his apologies for the meeting and thanked him on behalf of the

Delegates for his support to Connacht Golf.

The Honorary Secretary read out a brief resume on each recipient prior to their presentation by the

Chairman & Mr. Murray, in recognition of their achievements.

The FORE GOLF Order of Merit Awards were presented as follows:

FORE GOLF U14 Junior Golfer of the Year – Sam Murphy (Portumna);

FORE GOLF U16 Junior Golfer of the Year – Luke O’Neill (Connemara);

FORE GOLF U18 Junior Golfer of the Year – Ross Kelly (Tuam);

FORE GOLF Senior Golfer of the Year – Alex Gleeson (Castle) accepted by his N. MacSweeney

(Irish Senior Selector);

FORE GOLF Veteran Golfer of the Year – Liam Halpin (Westport);

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CBGUI Best Tournament Venue of the Year – Ballinrobe Golf Club, accepted by Oliver Walsh

CBGUI Services to Connacht Golf Award – Michael Butler (Athlone)

Mr. Butler replied on behalf of the Meeting and expressed his heartfelt gratitude and honour for his

nomination by Athlone and to receiving his award from Connacht Golf.

Confederation of Golf in Ireland Report (Justin O’Byrne)

At the invitation of the Chairman Justin O’Byrne (Regional Golf & Business Development Officer) presented a

10minute PowerPoint Presentation to the Meeting.

Mr. O’Byrne’s Presentation outlined the structure of the CGI, its creation by the GUI in association with the

ILGU, PGA & Sports Council.

Mr. O’Byrne described in detail the various types of Golf & Business Development Programmes CGI has on

offer and the number of Clubs and Golfers it has had direct contact with and assisted to date since its

establishment.

Mr. O’Byrne outlined what Programmes and initiatives are planned by CGI in 2017. In particular those aimed

at Boys and Men.

Mr. O’Byrne did also highlight the closing date for receipt of applications for 2017 ‘Get into Golf’ programmes

as being December 16, 2016 and late applications would not be entertained due to limited resources.

Mr. O’Byrne also drew attention to the various Online Resources which were available to Clubs through the

Confederation’s Website and encouraged all to avail of these resources.

Mr. O’Byrne in finishing drew particular attention of the delegates to the changes in mandatory legal

responsibility and training which Clubs must undertake in the area of Safe Guarding and appointing a

‘Designated Liaison person’ and their training. Mr. O’Byrne stated that CGI were fully equipped to assist

Clubs through this and arrange the necessary training for cluster groups of Clubs.

The Chairman thanked Mr. O’Byrne for his briefing and urged Clubs to continue to make use of the many

resources available to them through CGI.

Chairman’s Address (Jim McGovern)

At the outset the Chairman stated that it had been his pleasure to serve the Branch as Chairman and that he

was very thankful to his fellow Officers and the various members of the Provincial Council, Branch

Committees and Selection Committees for their support and hard work during the year.

The Chairman wished to record his thanks to all the Clubs who had extended great hospitality to him when

he visited during 2016. The Chairman was especially thankful to those Clubs who hosted events for the GUI,

both provincial and national during 2016.

The Chairman recounted that it was a sad year for those associated with golf given the loss in quick

succession of the two Christies, Junior and then Senior, who both had very strong connections with the

province and are sadly missed.

The Chairman stated that there had been many great successes and highlights during 2016 in particular on the

Championship front with Alex Gleeson winning the Irish Close, Sean Flanagan the North of Ireland, Thomas

O’Connor the inaugural Connacht Strokeplay Championship and Alan Hill in winning the Leinster U16 Boys).

The Chairman congratulated Ross Kelly on his selection for the Irish Boys Home International Team, Alex

Gleeson and Sean Flanagan for their selections on the Irish Senior Home International Team and Liam Halpin

(Westport) on his first cap for Ireland on the Seniors H.I. Team in Wales in September.

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The Chairman congratulated all Connacht Clubs who had won Provincial pennants and offered further

congrats to Co. Sligo on their Irish Senior Cup triumph. The Chairman congratulated Presentation College

Athenry on their All Ireland Senior Schools win.

The Chairman highlighted the significant contribution made by the Branch’ various event sponsors and

encouraged all to continue lending their support to their enterprises.

The Chairman wished to put on record his sincere thanks to the Branch Office staff over the last 12 months.

In closing the Chairman wished all a good year’s golf in 2017 at club and personal level.

Report of Branch Honorary Secretary (Michael Heaney).

The Chairman proposed to the Meeting that as this report had been previously circulated it be taken as read,

the Meeting agreed and there were no matters arising from the report.

Report on Junior Golf

The Chairman proposed to the Meeting that as this report had been previously circulated it be taken as read,

the Meeting agreed and there were no matters arising from the report.

Report of Branch Honorary Treasurer (Michael Evans).

The Chairman asked Mr. Evans to brief the Meeting on the audited accounts upon which Mr. Evans outlined

his report making the following key points –

Mr. Evans was happy to present the Financial statements of Income & Expenditure and Balance sheet for the

Connacht Branch for the financial year ended 30th Sept 2016 as approved by Provincial Council and signed by

Connacht Golf Accountants, RBK Athlone.

In summary terms, while Income has reduced to €127,357, expenditure has also reduced to €124,725 leaving

a surplus for the year of €2,632.

Income 2016 compared to prior year:

- Poll tax and Provincial levy income is down by €5412 reflecting removal of .50c per member grant paid

by GUI to branches (€4912) and reduction in numbers. Male membership numbers have fallen by 53

across the 41 Clubs and hopefully represents a stabilizing of numbers.

- Surplus on Branch Competitions is down by €3,079, primarily due to the Cecil Ewing Shield becoming

the GUI all Ireland Fourball

- Deposit Interest is down due to falling returns on our deposit which is invested in bank and Post office

deposit accounts.

- Seniors & Vets reduction €745 reflects the Vets being brought into one championship in 2016.

- Branch year book shows a greater income by €1674 this year and €1000 of that is one off.

- Junior Golf surplus €2505 represents increased entry numbers and consolidation of costs. Also

important to recognise the sponsors listed and the great support received from them.

- Coaching & Trials. Surplus of €3516 compared to a deficit of €5k in prior year at a time when our

coaching grant was reduced by €6400 by GUI HQ. This reflects better negotiations on costs and a

more streamlined coaching approach.

Expenditure:

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Largely similar to previous year, the principal cost items being further improved with their respect to cost

management, examples – running costs for Cups & Shields, reduction in meeting expenses through combining

meetings to reduce costs. Other reductions in postage / phone through better negotiation on price, training

etc.

Overall after a number of years of cost reduction, Council feel that it is prudent to set aside €5,000 to the

Contingency fund which has not been contributed to for previous 2 years.

Overall position is that we have a surplus in Income over Expenditure for the year of € 2632

Balance sheet

Primary changes relate to Current assets where our cash position at 30/09/16 has reduced by €16548 and our

debtors have increased by €37033 (largely reflective of monies due from GUI).

Our Creditors have increased by €12,303 (again largely due to funds we have to refund to GUI)

Our Contingency fund provision has increased by €5k to €174377.

Mr. Evans highlighted that some additional expenditures were anticipated in 2017 to replenish stock items,

training and event & office equipment.

Mr. Evans sought any queries on the accounts from the floor. No queries were forthcoming therefore the

Accounts were put to the meeting for adoption. On the proposal of Michael Evans and seconding of John

O’Donoghue the 2015/16 Accounts were approved and adopted by the Meeting.

Election of Branch Chairman

Mr. Jim McGovern (Castlebar) was deemed returned as he was unopposed.

Election of Hon. Secretary

Mr. Michael Heaney (Oughterard) was deemed returned as he was unopposed.

Election of Hon. Treasurer

Mr. Michael Evans (Athlone) was deemed returned as he was unopposed.

Appointment of Branch Auditors

On the proposal of the Chairman on behalf of Provincial Council and seconded by the Branch Hon. Secretary,

Russell Brennan Keane (Athlone) were reappointment Auditors to the Connacht Provincial Council for 2016.

Appointment of Branch Solicitor

On the proposal of the Chairman on behalf of Provincial Council and seconded by the Honorary Secretary,

Daniel McGrath & Co., Tuam were reappointment Branch Solicitor to the Connacht Provincial Council for

2016.

Election of Eleven Ordinary Delegates’ to Council

Following the completion of a secret ballot amongst the twelve candidates seeking the eleven positions the

following were returned as elected:

2017 Ordinary Delegates Elected (11)

Nominee Proposed By

Canavan, Richard (Tuam) Tuam Golf Club

Donohue, Matt (Portumna) Portumna Golf Club

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Duggan, Jimmy (Galway) Galway Golf Club

Durcan, John (Co. Sligo) Co. Sligo Golf Club

MacDonagh, John (Castlebar) Castlebar Golf Club

MacSweeney, Niall (Athenry) Athenry Golf Club

McConn, Cathal (Roscommon) Roscommon Golf Club

McLoughlin, Nicky (Ballina) Ballina Golf Club

Mooney, Jim (Boyle) Boyle Golf Club

O’Donoghue, John (Strandhill) Strandhill Golf Club

Slevin, Tony (Loughrea) Loughrea Golf Club

Video Presentations on One Governing Body and Progress on Governance & Strategy in 2016

by the GUI

The Chairman introduced two video segments provided by the GUI’s Communications Department to update

the Clubs on developments and the progression of the One Governing Body project and the advancements

made in the Governance of the Union and planned Strategic developments going forward.

The Chairman outlined that the Council were not in a position to answer any questions at the meeting and

that any Club with a query were to direct those to the CEO, Pat Finn.

The delegates intently viewed both presentations and they were each warmly received.

Election of Delegate to Central Council

The Chairman proposed on behalf of the Council that John MacDonagh (Castlebar) would be the 2016

Ordinary Delegate to the Central Council of the GUI. The Meeting approved.

Inter Provincial Team Captains’ Reports

The Chairman requested the Meetings permission and received it to take the four Inter Provincial Captains’

Reports as read as they had been previously circulated.

NOTICES of MOTION for DECISION

The following were the Results of the various Motions for Decision before the meeting after the Chairman

had sought views and comments from those present:

Motion proposed by Portsalon Golf Club

"That the GUI makes representation to the Confederation of Golf in Ireland to address the shortfall and

ongoing reduction in the number of male junior club members, and to include a school’s programme with the

objective of promoting junior golf and junior club membership in common with other sports."

Defeated

Motion proposed by Co. Armagh Golf Club

"That the GUI seeks the approval of CONGU to change the restriction in clauses 4.5c and 20.I0 of the 2016-

2018 CONGU UHS to a maximum of 2.0 strokes in a calendar year, effective - if possible - for the 20 I 7

season."

Defeated

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Motion proposed by Donabate Golf Club

"That the GUI seeks the approval of CONGU to change the restriction in clauses 4.5c and 20.I0 of the 2016-

2018 CONGU UHS to a maximum of 2.0 strokes in a calendar year, effective - if possible - for the 20 I 7

season."

Defeated

Any Other Business (with permission of Chairman).

Jimmy Duggan (Provincial Council) in his capacity as the appointed Designated Liaison Person (DLP) for

Connacht Golf once again outlined the importance of Clubs becoming compliant in respect of safeguarding

and reminded the Clubs that they may be subject to audit by the authorities during 2017.

The Executive Officer, Enda Lonergan, took the Delegates through the various 2017 Cups and Shields Draws

which had been completed by the Convenor of Venues & Fixtures, Niall MacSweeney and he earlier that

afternoon.

The meeting ended.

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2017 Honorary Secretary’s Report

It has been a great honour for me to serve the clubs of Connacht as Honorary Secretary for the past

four years. I would like to thank all clubs for their support during this time. 2017 proved successful

with Connacht clubs winning three national championships and local member, Barry Anderson, winning

the West of Ireland. Also, following a detailed review of the GUI High Performance programme, Ian

Kearney PGA was appointed High Performance Lead Coach for Connacht.

In my capacity as Honorary Secretary, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our outgoing

Chairman, Jim McGovern, for his hard work and commitment to Connacht golf over a number of years.

I wish Jim well as he goes on to become President Elect of the Golfing Union of Ireland.

The Cups and Shields were again a great success due to the great co-operation of all the clubs involved and to the Championship Committee. My thanks to all clubs who hosted these events, and to all their

members and staff on the way the courses were presented.

Champions for 2017 were as follows:

Team Winners:

AIG Senior Cup, Galway; AIG Barton Shield, Galway; AIG Junior Cup, Loughrea; AIG Jimmy Bruen

Shield, Castlebar; AIG Pierce Purcell Shield, Portumna; Irish Mixed Foursomes, Athenry; Senior Inter-

Club, Oughterard; Jack O Sullivan, Tubbercurry; Connacht Shield, Athenry; All Ireland Fourball, Ballina;

Fred Daly Athenry; Irish Junior Foursomes, Athenry

The National Cups and Shields at Carton House were a great success with wins for Galway at Senior

Cup and Castlebar at Jimmy Bruen. Athenry boys also had a wonderful win in the Fred Daly Trophy in

Bray.

Individual Winners:

Barry Anderson won West of Ireland and Munster Strokeplay.

Eddie McCormack won the Leinster and Connacht Mid Amateur championships.

Thomas Higgins won the Munster U14 Boys Open.

Ronan Mullarney won the Scottish Fife Students Open in Scotland.

Special mention for David Kitt who was runner up in the Irish Close at Galway in August; a wonderful

achievement for a young player of 17years of age.

Congratulations to Ronan Mullarney & Barry Anderson on their selection to the Irish Senior Panel for 2018;

Congratulations to Liam Halpin on his Irish Seniors Team cap in the Seniors Home Internationals at Rosslare.

It was disappointing not to have won at Inter Provincial level in both Senior and Boys. Connacht fielded

strong teams and the standard of golf continues to improve. Hopefully, 2018 will bring some success with the

Inter Provincials being held at Athenry Golf Course.

The Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Sligo generously sponsored the West of Ireland Championship was

hosted at Co. Sligo Golf Club. Barry Anderson had a wonderful tournament and was a worthy winner.

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On a disappointing note, it was regrettable to see such a small turn out at some of our Junior Inter Club

events with some late withdrawals. We hope to see this improve in 2018.

This year saw the appointment of High Performance Lead Ian Kearney PGA and coaches Xavier Medas PGA,

Hugh O’Neill PGA and Keith O’Neill PGA. I wish Ian and his coaches the very best in taking our golfers onto

the next level.

A special thanks to our provincial coach Leslie Robinson on his retirement. We acknowledge his

significant contribution to Connacht coaching over the past 25 years.

During 2017, discussions and consultations regarding One Governing Body continued with officials, staff

and club representatives. Proposals are currently being worked on with a view to having a

recommendation for consideration shortly.

Finally, my thanks to all the clubs who generously gave their courses to run our provincial tournaments

throughout the year. I would like to thank my fellow officers and all my colleagues on the Provincial Council

for their assistance and cooperation throughout the year.

A word of thanks to our Executive Officer Enda and Marie in the branch office for their professional

manner in assisting the Council and Clubs in running golf in Connacht.

Michael Heaney, Honorary Secretary.

Connacht Golf: Junior Golf Annual Report 2017

As the new season of junior golf commenced we were anticipating success at U-18 and U-16 level. At U-14

John O`Donoghue, John Costello and Jimmy Duggan did trojan work with them and by the time they got to

Blarney they were in great shape.

At our first meeting we again looked back on the previous year and many of the old problems of withdrawals

and failing to turn-up reared its head as it does annually. At that meeting it was decided to allow the Junior

Golf committee to feature as Junior Golf Development. The junior golf competitions were revisited and many

of the changes made were beneficial to the smaller clubs. We had new winners to the some of the

competitions.

In March we launched a new initiative and we held Junior Golf seminars in Sligo/Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon

and Galway. This was supported by the CGI’s Mr Justin O`Byrne. The seminar entailed The Junior Golf

structure within Golf Clubs and the responsibilities of the Junior Committee, including matters relating to

Safeguarding and Garda Vetting. The seminar was well attended and on behalf of the Connacht Branch I would

like to thank all of the clubs who attended and supported the initiative. 71% of the Clubs in the province were

represented.

In keeping with the implementation of the legal and best practice requirements for safeguarding of children in

sport arising from the 2015 Children First Act the Provincial Council appointed Enda Lonergan as the

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Children’s Officer and Jimmy Duggan as the Designated Liaison Person for Connacht Golf in the early Spring

of 2017.

Cathal McConn and Jimmy Duggan were National U-18 and U-16 boys’ captains for 2017. Cathal McCann’s

tenure of office expired in September. The position for a new National U-18 boys’ captain is presently

advertised.

The Boys Inter Provincial Championships were held at Blarney Golf Club, presented in good condition. There

were three teams representing each province, U-14, U-16 and U-18. The Connacht Boys teams all finished a

very creditable Runners-up in each of the age categories. A special word of thanks to our mentors Sean

Fitzgerald, John Durcan & John Waters (U18); Kevin Henry, John McDonagh & Tony Slevin (U16); John

O`Donoghue, Jimmy Duggan & John Costello (U14).

Winners of the Connacht Open Championships 2017.

Connacht Boys U-18 Open Champion : C. Denvir, Elm Park.

Connacht Boys U-16 Open Champion : S. Millar, Clandeboye.

Connacht Boys U-14 Open Champion : M Fitzgibbon, Howth.

Winners of Connacht Close Championships 2017.

U-12 : A. Challoner, Mountbellew.

U-14 : F. Hoare, Roscommon.

U-16 : D. Beirne, Ballinamore.

U-18 : R. Kelly, Tuam.

Connacht Junior Inter Club Championships 2017.

Irish Junior Foursomes : Athenry.

U-16 Inter Club ; Ballina.

Kenny Cup : Tuam. Fred Daly Plate : Loughrea.

Fred Daly Trophy : Athenry.

Congratulations extended to Ross Kelly on his selection to the Irish Boy Home International Team and to

Luke O’Neill on his selection for the European Young Masters event.

Congratulations to Thomas Higgins on winning Munster U-14 boys championship.

Congratulations to Athenry Golf Club on winning Fred Daly Trophy All Ireland.

Finally, Thank You to all my fellow Connacht GUI Championship Committee Officials who assisted in the

running of Junior events, the Branch Officers for their support and the staff of the Connacht Branch Office,

Marie and Enda, C.G.I. Officer Justin O`Byrne for their assistance during the past year.

John Durcan (Connacht Golf Junior Convenor) 2017.

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Honorary Treasurer’s Report for Financial Year End at September 30, 2017

The 2017 Financial statements (enclosed), signed by our Accountants, Russell Brennan Keane (RBK), report a surplus of €4’194.00 for the financial year ended 30th September 2017.

Our income has increased this year due to the increased poll tax and provincial levy approved at last year’s

ADM. Falling membership numbers has seen a reduction of 348 in overall numbers and is contrary to the

optimism expressed at our last meeting where we felt that this trend was slowing.

Provincial Council have approved the ‘ Building a sustainable future for Connacht Golf ‘ programme and have

set aside €15,000 in this year’s accounts to fund this programme which will hopefully increase the numbers of Juniors in clubs in the year ahead.

In 2018, we expect to continue to have a balanced income and expenditure position and I am grateful to all

our sponsors for their valued support which assists us in supporting the Branch's activities.

Finally, I would like to thank Executive Officer Enda and Marie in the branch office together with the team in

RBK for the timely production of the Financial Statements.

Michael Evans, Hon. Treasurer 2017.

INTERPROVINCIAL TEAM CAPTAIN’S REPORTS

Senior Inter Provincial Captain’s Report

Selection Committee: Captain Diarmuid Caulfield (Galway),

Manager Dara Bruen (Castlerea),

Selector Simon Rooney (Co. Sligo)

We kicked off the year the week prior to the West of Ireland in April with a panel outing where we

introduced Simon Rooney our new member of the selection committee to the panellists. We outlined our

plans and expectations for the year and followed up with 18 holes of golf in Co. Sligo Golf club.

Once again we are grateful to Co. Sligo Golf Club for facilitating us with the use of their magnificent course

and meeting facilities.

The Hon. Branch Treasurer addressed the meeting and outlined the Branches support for the team and

wished us all the best for the 2017 season.

The team was selected on the 14th June and was greatly boosted by a return to form for Barry Anderson with

hugely impressive wins in the West of Ireland and in the Munster Strokeplay Championships. Congrats to

Barry on two great wins.

The initial team selected was Alex Gleeson, Barry Anderson, Sean Flanagan, Ronan Mullarney, Stephen Healy,

Mark Morrissey, TJ Ford, Jack McDonnell. Late withdrawals from Alex (British Open final qualifying) and

Stephen Healy (Work Commitments) meant we drafted in Devin Morley and Cathal Nolan. Ross Ford from

Tuam was subsequently named as our non travelling reserve. We had two debutants in our squad for Carlow

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TJ Forde (Co. Sligo) and Devin Morley (Oughterard). As before, we the team management could not ask for

any more from the team in regards to the team spirit, commitment, attitude and their overall cooperation

with ourselves. However as highlighted in the tables below our overall results were disappointing and didn’t

build on the progress made last year in Fota Island which was our clear goal for 2017.

As a point of interest 22 of our 33 matches (66%) went to the 17th hole and beyond with 14 matches (43%)

going to the 18th . I am not highlighting these statistics as any form of comfort but just to point out that we did

fight hard and clearly need to work on getting tight matches over the line.

I wish to express my thanks to all below

o Jim our Chairman, Michael our Hon Secretary and Michael our Hon Treasurer for affording me

the honour to Captain my provincial Team and for your interest and support throughout the

year.

o Enda our Executive Officer and Marie in Castlebar for all their professional assistance and input

throughout the year

o Simon Rooney (selector) for his enthusiasm, hard work, advice and commitment throughout

the season.

o Dara Bruen our Team Manager for his help to me throughout the year and particularly in

Carlow itself again generating and maintaining a very healthy team spirit amongst all of the

group.

We now need to focus on Athenry 2018 and see what options we have or what options we can come up with

in order that we can build on Fota, lessons learned in Carlow and get a positive result for Connacht in

Connacht.

Regards

Diarmuid Caulfield Team Captain

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Day 1 Ulster Connacht

MCLARNON Tiarnan &BLACK Reece 1Hole beat Devin Morley &Jack McDonnell

NORTON Marc &LAPPIN Gareth 4&2 beat Barry Anderson &Mark Morrissey

HOOD Jordan &MCCARRON Kyle 1 Hole beat Ronan Mullarney &Cathal Nolan

BLEAKLEY Stuart &DUTTON Ross 3&1 beat Sean Flanagan &TJ Ford

MCLARNON Tiarnan 3&2 beat Barry Anderson

LAPPIN Gareth 1 Hole beat Jack McDonnell

BLACK Reece 2&1 beat Devin Morley

MCCARRON Kyle 3&1 beat Cathal Nolan

BLEAKLEY Stuart 2&1 lost to TJ Ford

HOOD Jordan 5&4 lost to Ronan Mullarney

NORTON Marc 3&2 beat Sean Flanagan

Ulster 9 2 Connacht

Day 2 Leinster Connacht

Jonathon Yates &Mark Power 4&3 Lost to Barry Anderson &Mark Morrissey

Caolan Rafferty &Eugene Smith halved Devin Morley &Jack McDonnell

Conor Purcell &Jake Whelan 1 hole beat Sean Flanagan &TJ Ford

Daniel Holl&&Alan Lowry 1 hole beat Ronan Mullarney &Cathal Nolan

Caolan Rafferty 5&3 beat Barry Anderson

Conor Purcell 3&2 beat Devin Morley

Mark Power 9&8 beat Jack McDonnell

Jonathon Yates 2 holes beat TJ Ford

Alan Lowry 2&1 beat Cathal Nolan

Eugene Smith 3&2 beat Sean Flanagan

Daniel Holland 2&1 Lost to Ronan Mullarney

Leinster 8.5 2.5 Connacht

Day 3 Munster Connacht

Peter OKeeffe &Andrew McCormack 1 hole beat Devin Morley &Jack McDonnell

Jack Pierse &John Murphy Halved Ronan Mullarney &Cathal Nolan

James Sugrue &Eanna Griffin 4&3 Lost to Sean Flanagan &TJ Ford

Gary O Flaherty &Geoff Lenehan 1 hole Beat Barry Anderson &Mark Morrissey

Peter O Keeffe 2&1 beat Devin Morley

Geoff Lenehan 1Hole beat Ronan Mullarney

John Murphy 1 hole Lost to Jack McDonnell

James Sugrue 1 hole Lost to Barry Anderson

Jack Pierse 2 holes Beat T J Ford

Eanna Griffin 6&5 beat Mark Morrissey

Gary O Flaherty 2&1 Beat Sean Flanagan

Munster 7.5 3.5 Connacht

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Boys U18 Interprovincial Championship Captain’s Report

Team:-

Harry Gillivan (Westport); Andrew Hickey (Ballyhaunis); Allan Hill (Athenry); Ross Kelly (Tuam); David Kitt

(Athenry)

Liam Power (Galway); Jack Tuohy (Galway Bay).

Non Travelling Reserve – Liam Nolan (Galway)

Management Team: Sean Fitzgerald (Westport) Team Captain

John Durcan (Co Sligo) Team Manager

John Waters (Oughterard) Selector

We assembled at a reasonably presented Blarney Golf Club at 12.00 noon on Monday 24/07/2017 for the

official practice round however there were no catering facilities on site so we purchased rolls for the boys and

management team at a local supermarket. Following the round we had a team and strategy meeting in

attendance was Sean Fitzgerald (Team Captain) John Durcan (Team Manager), John Waters (Selector).

Day 1

We were drawn against defending champions Ulster on the first day. We lost the first foursomes match won

the second and lost the third so we felt we were in an ok position going into the singles. We did ok in the

early singles matches however it was in the back end of the field where we came good winning the last three

matches to secure victory.

Result - Ulster 4.5 Connacht 5.5

Day 2

We were drawn against Munster on the day two. All the foursomes matches were closely contested and all

went down the 18th. We won that session two matches to one which put us in an excellent position going

into the singles matches. In the afternoon singles we came won the first match which put us in a strong

position however we had a poor run in the middle games and we ended up losing the singles session four

matches to three. The overall result was a halved match 5 – 5 and although we were disappointed to throw

away a lead results elsewhere meant that we had to beat Leinster in the final match to secure victory in the

event a situation we would be delighted with at the start of the week.

Result – Munster 5 Connacht 5

Day 3

We were out against Leinster on day three in a winner take all match. We halved the first foursomes match

won the second and lost the third so we were well in contention going into the singles at 1.5 points each.

After winning the first match in the singles we went on a disastrous run of results in the middle section losing

4 consecutive matches which effectively put an end to our chances. It was very disappointing to lose in the

manner we did as we didn’t seem to finish out our matches strongly enough. We went from a winning

position with a half point to spare through fifteen holes to loosing quite convincingly through eighteen. Result - Leinster 6.5 Connacht 3.5

Overall we performed well and the attitude shown by the boys was commendable. We seemed to have

addressed our inability to take points in the foursomes having won one lost one and halved one which made

us competitive going into the singles. As in previous years our team were a pleasure to deal with and they

were marvellous ambassadors for their Province. They were a credit to their Club’s and Families all of whom

should be very proud of them. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all in the Branch under Jim’s

leadership for all the support they gave to the team. I would like to thank Enda and Marie in the office for all

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the support on the administration front. Finally I owe a huge debt of gratitude to John Durcan (Team

Manager) and John Waters (Selector) for the professional manner they went about their duties during the

week. They generated a great spirit and camaraderie amongst the travelling party which made it enjoyable for

all. The event ran very smoothly thanks to Mark and all his officials on the ground for their good work.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Branch for giving me the chance to captain Connacht over

the past three years. Although I’m not from the province it has been an huge honour for me and although we

failed to secure a victory I will cherish many of the memories I take away from my time in charge.

Sean Fitzgerald, Team Captain

Boys U16 Interprovincial Championship Captain’s Report

Team Players.

1. Patrick Callaghan (Castle Dargan)

2. Sean Carroll (Castle Dargan)

3. Daragh Connolly (Castle Dargan)

4. Darren Leufer (Athenry)

5. Eoin McGrath (Athlone)

6. Simon Walker (Roscommon)

NTR Gavan Keogh (Galway)

Management Team: Kevin Henry (Roscommon) Captain.

John McDonagh (Castlebar) Team Manager

Tony Slevin (Loughrea) Selector.

Venue:

Blarney Golf Resort was the venue for the Championships. We met up with the players at 6.00pm on Monday

24th July at the hotel on site. After our practice round on Tuesday 25th July we met with our professional

Xavier Medas who discussed the playing strategy of the course with the players.

Match 1 v Leinster

We made a great start to the week with a hard earned win for our first ever win against Leinster and we are

now looking forward to our afternoon match against Munster.

Match 2 v Munster

We continued our good form from the morning match and ran out 4-1 winners to set up a Thursday

morning shootout against Ulster, winner take all.

Match 3 v Ulster

The Championship now rested on this match against Ulster who had to win the match, whereas we could win

the title with a halved match or a win. We lost the foursomes match to a barrage of birdies despite our lads

playing very well. We won singles matches 1 & 2, lost singles match 5 leaving us needing a half from match 4.

Despite a great fight back by Eoin, like last year we came up a half point short losing the match on the 18th,

which left Ulster the champions.

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Final Standings:

1. Ulster

2. Connacht

3. Leinster

4. Munster

Wednesday 26th July

Leinster 1 1/2 Connacht 3 1/2 (Leinster names first)

Sean Doyle/ Alex Maguire lost to Sean Carroll/ Daragh Connolly 5/3

Shane Irwin lost to Patrick Callaghan 1Hole

Josh McCabe halved with Darren Leufer

David Marshall lost to Simon Walker 4/3

Josh Macken beat Eoin McGrath 6/4

Munster 1 Connacht 4 ( Munster names first)

Jack Egan/Fionn Hickey lost to Patrick Callaghan/Eoin McGrath 4/3

Philip Byrne lost to Sean Carroll 6/5

Daniel Raher lost to Simon Walker 6/5

Luke Walsh beat Darren Leufer 1Up

Rory Milne lost to Darragh Connolly 2/1

Thursday 27th July

Ulster 3 Connacht 2 (Ulster names first)

Odhran Maguire/Jack Shellard beat Simon Walker/Darren Leufer 6/5

Tom McKibbin lost to Patrick Callaghan 3/2

Scott Miller lost to Sean Carroll 3/2

Keaton Morrison beat Eoin McGrath 1Hole

Josh Black beat Darragh Connolly 4/3

Summary

As a group we were disappointed to miss out on the title by half a point as the team had prepared and

competed well in the championships. Personally I would like thank our Chairman Jim McGovern and the

Connacht Branch foe appointing me Captain for 2017. I would like to thank our coaches Leslie, Xavier and

Hugh for their help during the year and to Xavier for attending in Blarney for the duration of the

Championships. To Enda Lonergan and Marie Gibbons in the Branch Office many thanks for your help in

organising the gear for the team and advice and help whenever requested.

A special thank you to John McDonagh (Team Manager) and Tony Slevin (Selector) for their wonderful

support during the year.

Finally, to the parents of the boys, it was an honour for me to be their captain and both the selectors and

myself have to say they conducted themselves in an exemplary fashion both on and off the course for which

their parents and Connacht Golf should be justly proud.

Kevin Henry (Team Captain).

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Boys U14 Interprovincial Championship Captain’s Report

Team selected to represent Connacht

1. Cormac Feeney - Enniscrone G.C.

2. Thomas Higgins - Roscommon G.C.

3. Fionn Hoare - Roscommon G.C.

4. Paraic McGrath - Cregmore G.C.

5. Sean McLoughlin - Co. Sligo G.C.

6. Cian O’Connor - Roscommon G.C.

Non Travelling Reserve - Luke Cunningham, Mountbellew G.C.

Team Captain, John O’Donoghue - Strandhill G.C.

Team Manager, Jimmy Duggan - Galway G.C.

Selector, John Costelloe - Cregmore G.C.

Venue for Championship - Blarney G.C.

Blarney G.C. was the venue for this year’s Inter Pro’s. A long distance for parents to have to travel too.

When we arrived we were made very welcome by the hotel staff and by all connected at the Golf Club.

Having accommodation on the one site is of great benefit when managing the underage teams.

U/14 Panel Selection

The panel was selected in October ’16, by the Coaching and Junior Golf Committees. They participated in

Connacht Branch Winter/Spring Coaching Sessions held in Ballinrobe G.C. I was appointed Team Captain in

January ’17, and it has been a great honour for me to work with this young panel.

Following the coaching programme we encouraged the boys to enter Provincial U14 Championships in

Connacht, Leinster and Munster, which would all take place before the Inter Pro’s on July 25th. The boys also

entered the Munster U.16 Open which was held in Blarney G.C. on April 10th. We had two trials for the

Panel held in Castlebar G.C. and Claremorris G.C. in June. All in all we had very good preparation leading up

to the selection of the Team.

MATCH RESULTS

Round 1 Tuesday July 25th Morning

Leinster Connacht

Michael Fitzgibbon/Brandon St John 2&1 Paraic McGrath/Cian O’Connor

Liam Abom 1 hole Cormac Feeney

Alex Bolger 5&4 Thomas Higgins

Cian McFadden 3&2 Fionn Hoare

Joseph Byrne 3&2 Sean McLoughlin Leinster Win 3 – 2

While we came up just short on this occasion against the eventual winners of the championships, there was

excellent golf played throughout this match. All the boys can feel very proud of their performance.

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Round 2 Tuesday July 25th Afternoon

Ulster Connacht

Ewan McArthur/Ross Campbell 3&2 Thomas Higgins/Fionn Hoare

Robbie Davidson 4&3 Paraic McGrath

Joshua Hill 3&2 Sean McLoughlin

Lewis Fox 7&6 Cian O’Connor

Edward Rowe 3&2 Cormac Feeney

Connacht Win 3 - 2

Victory against Ulster was a great boast for the Team with some outstanding golf being played by the boys

from Connacht and set up nicely for the final match against Munster.

Round 3 Wednesday July 26th Morning

Connacht Munster

Sean McLoughlin/Cormac Feeney 7&6 Mel Deasy/Seanie Lenihan

Thomas Higgins 2&1 Zac Collins

Paraic McGrath 6&5 Matthew Whelan

Fionn Hoare 3&2 James O’Callaghan

Cian O’Connor Halved Morgan O’Sullivan

It turned out to be very disappointing end to the Championships for us. Starting out this morning we felt we

had a good chance of success.

Final Standing

Leinster - 2.5

Connacht - 1.5

Munster - 1.5

Ulster - 1.5

The Team A big thanks to a very talented group of boys who I believe will have benefited a lot from this experience.

Their commitment and willingness to learn all the way through the coaching programme and following that

the lead up to the Championships was very noticeable. I believe they can progress a lot further in the future.

I must make special reference to Thomas Higgins Roscommon G.C. who gave an outstanding performance in

capturing the Munster U/14 Open Championship held aat Kanturk G.C. in July. A special word also to Luke

Cunningham Mountbellew G.C. who was the non-travelling reserve. Luke participated in all of the coaching

and preparation leading up to selection and was unlucky not to have been selected.

The Selectors

Thanks to Jimmy Duggan and John Costelloe for their professionalism, guidance and support over the last nine

months. For their input into generating a friendly atmosphere throughout our time in Blarney.

The Coaches

Many thanks to Leslie, Hugh and Xavier who worked with the Panel throughout the Winter/Spring Coaching

Session, developing their skill levels. Not forgetting all the Club Pro’s and Junior Convenors who have played

a part in progressing the boys golf careers.

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Connacht Branch

A special thanks to Enda and Marie for their support and help.

To the Officers of the Connacht Branch who ensured that financial support was available at all times.

The Parents

All involved in Connacht Golf realise the sacrifices you have to make to ensure that the boys can attend

coaching, interclub activities and various championships up and down the country. On behalf of all involved

with Junior Golf in Connacht, I would like to thank you for your continued support.

For me it has been an honour to be involved with the Under 14 Panels for the past three years.

John O’Donoghue, Team Captain.

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“Draft” 2018 Connacht Golf Fixtures.

Connacht Golf Events 2018 Venue

CHAMPIONSHIPS

Confirmed in BOLD

West of Ireland March 28 – April 3 (Weds-Tues) COUNTY SLIGO

Connacht Mid Amateur Open Date Change – May 26 & 27 Oughterard

Connacht Seniors Open June 26 & 27 (Tues-Weds) Strandhill

Connacht Strokeplay June 9 & 10 (Sat-Sun) Portumna

U14 Boys Open June 28 (Thurs) Loughrea

U16 Boys Open August 7 & 8 (Tue-Weds) Gort

U18 Boys Open April 4 - 6 (Wed-Fri) Belmullet

U12, U14, U16 & U18 Close Qualifiers July 26 (Thurs) Ballinasloe/Castle Dargan

Connacht Youths & Students Championship

(New Event)

Aug 1 – Aug 3

(Weds – Fri) Tuam

U12, U14, U16 & U18 Close Finals August 13 (Mon) Co. Sligo (C’ship)

*U12s on Bomore

Inter Club Championships & Schools Golf

Irish Mixed Foursomes Provincial Finals July 20 & 21 (Fri-Sat) Claremorris

AIG Cups & Shields Provincial Finals

Senior Cup, Barton Shield, Junior Cup,

Jimmy Bruen & Pierce Purcell

August 10 – 12 (Fri-Sun) Roscommon

Barton Shield Sat June 23 Westport

Senior Cup Sat June 30 Athenry

9 Hole Course IC Final Sat 17 June (Prov) Strokestown (Subject to Finalists)

Kenny Cup North July 2 (Mon) Tubbercurry

Kenny Cup South July 2 (Mon) Cregmore Park

Junior Cup North July 7 – 8 (Sat-Sun) Ballinrobe

Junior Cup South July 7 – 8 (Sat-Sun) Portumna

Irish Junior Foursomes July 30 & 31 (Mon & Tues) Galway Bay

U16 Inter Club August 2 (Thurs) Ballina

U15 Schools (Con Development) April 26 (Thurs) Ballinrobe

U16 Schools (National) September 20 (Thurs) Ballinrobe

U19 Schools (National) North September 27 (Weds) TBC

U19 Schools (National) South September 27 (Weds) TBC

U19 Schools Provincial Finals March/April 2019 TBC (Subject to Finalists)

FRED DALY Provincial Finals Home & Away At Finalists Home Course

Golfing Union of Ireland - Connacht Branch

Income & Expenditure Account

for the year ended 30th September 2017

Golfing Union of Ireland - Connacht Branch

Page 1

Income & Expenditure Account

for the year ended 30th September 2017

2017 2016

€ €

Income Notes

Poll Tax & Provincial Levy 1 104,236 88,416

G.U.I. Administrative Grant 10,000 10,000

Surplus on Branch Competitions 2 8,585 7,779

Fines 100 300

Deposit Interest Received 1,167 2,714

Connacht Seniors & Veterans 3 1,190 1,314

Branch Year Book 4 2,159 3,495

Branch Junior Golf 5 3,428 4,676

Branch Coaching & Trials 6 10,151 3,515

Facilities Development Fund 3,650 4,300

West of Ireland 8 868 83

Connacht Over 30's Championship 9 242 -

Connacht Strokeplay 11 3 765 _______ _______

145,779 127,357 _______ _______

Expenditure

GUI Senior & Junior Cups & Shields 7 (6,808) (2,776)

Secretarial - Salaries 64,724 65,509

: Pension 12,672 12,672

: Employer's PRSI 7,125 7,067

Meeting Expenses - Branch Delegates (Room Hire, Catering & Travel) 13,520 10,216

Meeting Expenses - Branch Staff (Catering & Travel) 928 1,373

Postage & Phone 4,311 4,038

Stationary & Printing 1,223 1,524

Accountancy 1,968 2,030

Bank Charges 542 550

Rent 6,781 6,781

Light & Heat 711 1,250

Insurance 2,103 1,567

Leasing & Maintenance 1,569 1,730

John Brett Trophy 138 1,091

Sundry 604 523

Capt./Sec. & Sponsors Function 1,600 1,320

Clothing & Branch Officials Uniform 10 4,408 219

Staff training 717 -

Officials training 2,788 1,189

Rates 1,306 981

Contingency Fund Provision 12 - 5,000

Golf Development Fund 15,000

Depreciation 3,655 765

Office Equipment - 106

_______ _______

(141,585) (124,725) _______ _______

Surplus / (Deficit) for year 4,194 2,632 _______ _______

Golfing Union of Ireland - Connacht Branch

Page 2

Balance Sheet

as at 30th September 2017

2017 2016

€ € € €

Fixed Assets

Office Equipment 2,293 3,058

Additions 4,086 -

Disposal - - _______ _______

6,379 3,058

Less Depreciation for year (3,655) (765)

_______ _______ 2,724 2,293

Current Assets

Prize Bonds 635 635

Savings Bonds 67,473 67,473

Cash at Bank 358,289 307,131

Stocks 294 613

Debtors 11,626 62,750 _______ _______

438,317 438,602

Less Current Liabilities

Sundry Creditors 11,049 30,097 _______ _______

427,268 408,505 _______ _______

Excess of Assets over Liabilities 429,992 410,798 _______ _______

Represented By :

Opening Surplus 236,421 233,789

Surplus / (Deficit) For Year 4,194 2,632 _______ _______

Closing Surplus 240,615 236,421

Restricted Funds 12 189,377 174,377 _______ _______

429,992 410,798 _______ _______

We have prepared the above Income & Expenditure Account Balance Sheet and notes to the accounts from the records

and information presented to us and confirm that they are correct and in accordance therewith.

Signed:

RBK Business Advisers

RBK Business Advisers,

Chartered Accountants,

RBK House,

Irishtown,

Athlone,

Co. Westmeath. Date: 9th November 2017

Golfing Union of Ireland - Connacht Branch

Page 3

1. Poll Tax & Provincial Levy

Adult Playing No's Revenue Increase/

€ (Decrease)

in Revenue

2017 9,476 104,236 +15.1%

2016 9,824 88,416 -6.1%

2015 9,877 93,832 - 5.24%

2014 10,404 99,028 - 6.6%

2013 11,158 106,001 - 3.5%

2012 12,210 109,890 - 4.9%

2011 12,848 115,632 - 7.5%

2010 13,926 125,335 - 9.3%

2009 15,369 138,321 - 3.2%

2008 15,880 142,920 + 9.1%

Note:

The levy increased by €2 per person in 2016/2017.

The male membership numbers have fallen to 348 which was contrary to trends and what was expected or budgeted

for.

Golfing Union of Ireland - Connacht Branch

Notes to the Accounts

for the year ended 30 September 2017

Page 4

2. Branch Competitions 2017 2016

Surplus/ Surplus/

EntriesSponsorships Sponsors Expenditure (Deficit) (Deficit)

€ € € € €

Senior Inter Club 3,200 - 814 2,386 1,923

Connacht Shield 2,550 1,000 Multi-Colour Corporation 578 2,972 3,111

9 Hole Inter Club 975 - 749 226 -

Jack O' Sullivan 3,225 - OK Supplies Castlebar 224 3,001 2,744

_______ _______ _______ _______ _______

Totals 9,950 1,000 2,365 8,585 7,778 _______ _______ _______ _______ _______

Branch Awards prizes sponsored by FORE GOLF.

OK Supplies provide the event medals free of charge as their sponsorship contribution.

3. Connacht Seniors 2017 2016

€ €

Entry fees 2,660 3,745

Sponsors - -

Expenditure (1,470) (2,431) _______ _______

Surplus/(Deficit) 1,190 1,314

_______ _______

The seniors championship had no sponsor in 2017.

Golfing Union of Ireland - Connacht Branch

Notes to the Accounts

for the year ended 30 September 2017

Page 5

4. Branch Year Book

€750 Sponsorship for Connacht Annual from Fore Golf/AIG.

2017 2016

€ €

Income 8,750 8,600

Sponsorship 750 750

Costs (7,341) (5,855)

_______ _______

2,159 3,495 _______ _______

In 2015/2016 the branch office negotiated a once off discount of €1,000 in lieu for production issues in 2014/2015

5. Junior Golf

Junior Golf comprises of:

U14 Boys Open, U16 Boys Open, U18 Boys Open, U16 Inter Club, Kenny Cup, U12-U14-U16-U18 Junior Close, Fred

Daly Plate, and U15-U16-U19 School Championships.

2017 2016

€ €

Income

Entry Fees 10,390 13,405

Expenditure

General Costs (Officials Mileage & Catering) & Junior Meetings (6,962) (8,729) _______ _______

Surplus/Deficit 3,428 4,676 _______ _______

Sponsors

U14 Boys Open - No Sponsor

U16 Boys Open - Prizes sponsored by Titleist/Footjoy

U18 Boys Open - No Sponsor

U16 Inter Club - Prizes sponsored by Hugh O'Neill PGA

Kenny Cup - Prizes sponsored by Golfstyle Ltd - Declan Cunningham PGA

U12-U14-U16-U18 Junior Close - Prizes sponsored by Golfstyle Ltd (Declan Cunningham PGA)

Fred Daly Plate - Prizes sponsored by Leslie Robinson PGA.

U15-U16-U19 Schools - No Sponsor

Golfing Union of Ireland - Connacht Branch

Notes to the Accounts

for the year ended 30 September 2017

Page 6

6. Coaching & Trials 2017 2016

€ €

Income

GUI Coaching Grant 64,000 57,600 _______ _______

Expenditure

SIP Coaching & Trials 6,780 8,088

BIP U14, U16 & U18 Coaching & Trials 17,208 12,563

Development Squads Coaching 21,852 26,708

BIP U14, U16 & U18 Elite Panel Expenses 8,010 6,725

_______ _______

53,850 54,085

_______ _______

Surplus/Deficit 10,151 3,515

_______ _______

7. GUI Senior & Junior Cups & Shields 2017 2016

€ €

GUI Administrative Grant 10,000 10,000

Expenditure (net of Entries) (3,192) (7,225)

_______ _______ Surplus/(Deficit) 6,808 2,775

_______ _______ AIG sponsored GUI Cups & Shields.

Fred Daly Trophy - No Regional Sponsor due to National Sponsor.

'I Need Spain' sponsored the Irish Mixed Foursomes.

GUI All Ireland Fourball has no sponsor.

Golfing Union of Ireland - Connacht Branch

Notes to the Accounts

for the year ended 30 September 2017

Page 7

8. West of Ireland 2017 2016

€ €

Entry Fees 13,680 8,940

Sponsors - -

Expenditure (12,812) (8,856)

_______ _______

Surplus/(Deficit) 868 84

_______ _______

West of Ireland Championship is sponsored by the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Sligo

9. Connacht Over 30's Championship 2017 2016

€ €

Entry Fees 3,120 2,960

Sponsors

Expenditure (2,878) (1,916)

_______ _______

Surplus/(Deficit) 242 1,044

_______ _______

Formally known as the Connacht Mid-Amateur Open Championship.

Golfing Union of Ireland - Connacht Branch

Notes to the Accounts

for the year ended 30 September 2017

Page 8

10. Clothing & Branch Officials Uniform 2017 2016

Council

Delegates Surplus/ Surplus/

Expense Contribution (Deficit) (Deficit)

€ € € €

4,408 - (4,408) (219)

_______ _______ _______ _______

Totals 4,408 - (4,408) (219)

_______ _______ _______ _______

GUI officials jackets were purchased during the year resulting in the substantial increase in this expense.

11 Connacht Strokeplay 2017 2016

€ €

Entry fees 3,780 3,375

Sponsors - -

Expenditure (3,777) (2,609)

_______ _______

Surplus/(Deficit) 3 766

_______ _______

Golfing Union of Ireland - Connacht Branch

Notes to the Accounts

for the year ended 30 September 2017

Page 9

12. Restricted Funds

Contingency Fund Golf Development Fund

2017 2016 2017 2016

€ € € €

Funds at start of year 174,377 169,377 - -

Increase in provision for the year - 5,000 15,000 -

_______ _______ _______ _______

Funds at end of year 174,377 174,377 15,000 -

_______ _______ _______ _______