Governance Code

The Governance Code - What Is It?

The Governance Code is a Code of Practice for Good Governance of Community, Voluntary and Charitable Organisations in Ireland.

All Community, Voluntary and Charitable (CVC) Organisations have a responsibility to provide and follow a code of good practice when it comes to how their organisations are run. It is the responsibility of the Board, to make sure this happens.

The Governance Code has a dedicated website www.governancecode.ie which will be an invaluable tool to help your organisation perform to the highest standards possible and give confidence to you and all of your stake holders. Good governance means that policies and procedures are in place to ensure that your organisation is run well. The Governance Code aims to make sure that organisations are run responsibly and that they are rewarded for compliance with elevated reputations and greater efficiency and effectiveness. The Governance Code clearly outlines the roles, duties and responsibilities of all those who sit on the boards and management committees. Intended to help organisations do their work better, the code is based on principles, not rules, and compliance with it is voluntary.

Why should your organisation adopt the Governance Code?

Organisations are only as strong as their reputations and clearly stating to stakeholders that you adhere to the Governance Code will substantially boost your reputation, status and credibility as a high performing, ethically run and financially sound organisation.

Adopting the code will:

• Reassure funders that finances are being managed by a well-run organisation
• Increase transparency
• Help avoid serious risks
• Help your organisation achieve its goals faster
• Reduce costs

Sport Ireland is aware that sport governance is unique and challenging - it is clear that sports organisations face different challenges and need to adapt the corporate governance learning from business and make it relevant to the sports movement.