CONSTITUTION
OF
BALLINROBE GOLF CLUB
CLOONACASTLE, BALLINROBE

AT AN EGM DATED 30th AUGUST 2007

CONSTITUTION AND RULES OF BALLINROBE GOLF CLUB
1. Preliminary
2. Title and Ownership
3. Membership
4. Objects
4.1 The Men's Branch
4.2 The Ladies' Branch
4.3 The Joint Club
4.4 The Council
5. Trustees
6. Officers
7. Management
7.1 Allocation of functions
7.2 Election-Council,Officers and Committees
7.3 Committee meetings
7.4 Management regulations
7.5 Appointment of Sub-Committees
8. Administration
9. Finance
9.1 The Joint Club
9.2 The Mens' Branch
9.3 The Ladies' Branch
10. Election of Members
11. Categories of Members
12. Entrance fees
13 Annual sub-scription
14. Capital levy
15. Modification and annual subscription
16. Visitors and Temporary Members
17. Fines and suspension
18. Termination of Membership
19. General Meetings
19.1 The Men's Branch
19.2 The Ladies' Branch
19.3 The Joint Club
19.4 Special General Meeting
19.5 Chairperson at General Meetings
20. Notices of annual and special General Meetings
21. Voting at General Meetings
22. Minute books
23. Playing facilities
24. Personal property
25. Registration of Club Acts 1904/1988
Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988
26. Change of constitution and rules
27. Rules of Golf and Local Rules
28. Bye-laws

PRELIMINARY, DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATIONS

1.1 Rules herein contained are indicated by consecutive numbers.
1.2 Clauses are indicated by consecutive numbers preceded by rule and Clause numbers
1.3 Sub-Clauses are indicated by consecutive numbers preceded by rule, Clause numbers
1.4 Sub- Sub-Clauses are indicated by consecutive numbers preceded by rule,
Clause and Sub-Clause numbers.
1.5 The "Men's Branch" shall mean the group of male amateur playing golfers operating under a constitution acceptable to the Golfing Union of Ireland and to which such club is affiliated
1.6 The "Ladies' Branch shall mean the group of female amateur playing golfers operating under a constitution acceptable to the Irish Ladies' Golf
Union and to which such club is affiliated.
1.7 The "Joint Club" shall mean the Club formed through the amalgamation of the two groups of amateur playing golfers defined in Clauses 1.5 and 1.6 above, for the purposes of administering the affairs (other than the game of golf and it's related activities) of both the Ladies' Branch and the Men's Branch The Joint Club holds the property and assets of the Club in trust on behalf of the Full Ordinary Members of the Club. The Joint Club cannot become affiliated to either the Golfing Union of Ireland or the Irish Ladies' Golf Union. The Joint Club has delegated the management and administration of all Club affairs to the Council as set out hereunder.
1.8 The name or title "Club", without qualification shall mean the Men's Branch, the Ladies' Branch or the Joint Club, or each of their Officers and Members where the context so admits or requires.
1.9 The name or title "Committee" and the Officers and Members thereof without qualification shall mean the Men's Committee, the Ladies' Committee, or the Council, or each of their Officers and Members where the context so admits or requires.
1.10 The Council shall be the Body which has sole control of administrative affairs of the Club including financial matters and as set out in paragraphs 4.4 and 7 (Management)

2. TITLE AND OWNERSHIP

2.1 The name of the Club shall be Ballinrobe Golf Club and this name shall be the common name by which the Men's Branch, the Ladies' Branch and the Joint Club shall be individually and collectively known.
2.2 The official address of the Club is Cloonacastle, Ballinrobe, in the County of Mayo.
2.3 The ownership of the Club property shall be vested in the Trustees for the time being of the Club on behalf of the Full Ordinary Members as defined by sub-clause 11.2.1. The full Ordinary Members only shall have control of the affairs of the Club.
3. MEMBERSHIP

3.1 The Membership of the Men's Branch shall consist of male playing Members who are Life Members, Full Ordinary Members and other subscribing playing Members as may be elected from time to time under Clause 10.2 and such Honorary Members (including Life) as may be elected from time to time by the Men's Committee subject as provided in Sub-Clause 11.2.8.
3.2 The Membership of the Ladies' Branch shall consist of female playing Members who are Life Members, Full Ordinary Members and other subscribing playing Members as may be elected from time to time under clause 10.2 and such Honorary Members (including life) as may be elected from time to time by the Ladies' Committee subject as provided in Sub-Clause 1.2.8.
3.3 The Membership of the Joint Club shall consist of all Members of each of the Men's and Ladies' Clubs, Juniors and such Social or House Members as may be elected from time to time by the Council.

4. OBJECTS

4.1 The Men's Branch Shall:-
4.1.1 Promote the Amateur game of Golf amongst its members
4.1.2 Accept and abide by the Constitution and by-laws of the Golfing Union of Ireland to which the club is affiliated and the bye-laws of the Connacht branch.
4.1.3 Accept and apply the Standard Scratch Score and Handicapping Scheme as prescribed by the Council of National Golf Unions and such rules there under as may require to be implemented from time to time by the Golfing Union of Ireland.
4.1.4 Accept and recognise the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews as the sole authority for prescribing and implementing the Rules of Golf and the Rules of amateur status.
4.1.5 Authorise the Joint Club and Council to act in the administration of the affairs (other than the game of Golf and its related activities) on behalf of such Club, subject to and as provided in these rules.

4.2: The Ladies’ Branch Shall:-
4.2.1 Promote the Amateur game of golf amongst it's Members
4.2.2 Accept and abide by the Constitution and Bye-Laws of the Irish Ladies Golf Union and the Bye-Laws of the Western District
4.2.3 Accept and apply the Handicapping System as prescribed by the Irish Ladies' Golf Union and such rules there under as may require to be implemented from time to time by such Union
4.2.4 Accept and recognise the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews as the sole authority for prescribing and implementing the Rules of Golf and the Rules of Amateur Status
4.2.5 Authorise the Joint Club and Council to act in the administration of the affairs (other than the game of golf and its related activities) on behalf of such Club subject to and as provided in theses rules.
4.3 The Joint Club Shall:
4.3.1 Provide facilities for the playing and promotion of the amateur game of Golf by Men, Women, Students and Juniors and generally promote amateur games and other social activities amongst it's members.
4.3.1.1. Reflect the guidelines in the code of Ethics and good practice for children’s sport in Ireland
4.3.2 Act through the Council duly appointed in the administration of the affairs of both the Men's and Ladies' Clubs which shall include:
4.3.2.1 Finance, Management and Club affairs as defined in paragraphs 4.4 and 7.
4.3.2.2 Bar and Catering Facilities
4.3.2.3 Provision and responsibility for the maintenance and upkeep of the course and clubhouse and their environs to the standard required by Club Members
4.3.3 Adhere to the maximum number of Members of the different categories of playing Members which can be elected to each of the Men's and Ladies' Branches. Any alteration in the number permitted in each category shall be decided at an Annual General Meeting or an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Joint Club.
4.3.4 Adhere to the existing rate of:
(i) Club entry fee
ii) Annual subscription
iii) Capital levy, if any being paid by Members of the different categories of Members in each of the Men's and Ladies' Clubs and by Social or House Members of the Joint Club.
4.3.5 Any alteration in any of the rates in sub-clause 4.3.4. shall be decided at an Annual General Meeting or an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Joint Club
4.3.6 Generally to act in the promotion and advancement of the affairs of the Club and the improvement of the facilities available to members.

4.4 The Council shall:
4.4.1 Be the sole administrative Body for administering all affairs of the Club both financial, legal business and employment related and all other matters which apply to the day to day running of the Club and as defined in paragraph 7 (Management).

5. TRUSTEES
5.1 Trustees shall be a maximum of eight individual members and shall be elected at the A.G.M. To be eligible one must be a Full ordinary member of the club of at least 7 years standing.
5.2 Each Trustee shall hold office until resignation or removal from office by resolution of the Members at a General Meeting of the Joint Club. In the
event of a vacancy in the Office of Trustee arising a current member may be nominated by giving to the Club Secretary at least twenty one days notice prior to the date of the next Annual General Meeting of the Club notice of such nomination. All nominees must be proposed and seconded by ordinary members of the Club, such proposer and seconder to have at least five years consecutive ordinary membership of the Club. A complete list of nominated persons together with their proposals and seconders must be posted on the notice board in the Club House at least seven days prior to the date of the Annual General Meeting.
5.3 The Club premises and such other property of the Club as the Council shall determine shall be vested in and under the legal control of the Trustees and such Trustees shall deal with the property of the Club as directed by a resolution of the Council of which an entry in the Minute Book shall be sufficient evidence.
5.4 The Trustees must meet with the Council of the Club at least once a year to review the affairs of the Club.
5.5 If the Trustees, when directed by a resolution of the Council to perform a certain act consider that the performance of such act is one of such importance that they consider that the Members of the Joint Club should be consulted, then the Trustees may refuse to perform such an act until the Members of the Joint Club have been consulted at a General or an Extraordinary General Meeting and a resolution is passed at such meeting authorising or refusing to authorise the Trustees to perform such an act as was originally directed by the Council.
5.6 The Trustees shall be entitled to attend meetings of the Council, without voting rights, in their capacity as Trustees.
5.7 The Trustees shall be indemnified out of the Joint Club property and assets in respect of all transactions directed by a resolution of the Council and against all liabilities and expenses necessarily incurred as a result of their Trusteeship and in the event of the Joint Club property and assets being deficient, such deficiency shall be made good by the Full Ordinary Members on whose behalf the property and assets of the club are held.
5.8 The Trustees shall not enter any Agreement for the Sale, Transfer or Lease of the property and assets of the Club without first obtaining the permission and sanction of the members of the Club either at a General Meeting of the Joint Club or at an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Joint Club and in like manner the Trustees of the Club shall not purchase any real property without first obtaining the permission of and the sanction of the Joint Club either at a General Meeting of the Joint Club or at an Extraordinary General Meeting.
5.9 The Trustees from time to time may appoint two or more of their numbers to sign, execute any mortgage charge, guarantee or other security documents as they may think fit for the giving of proper security for any overdraft, term loan, loan account or guarantee secured from the Club’s Bankers.

6. OFFICERS

6.1 The Officers of the Men's' Branch shall be The Captain, Vice Captain, Honorary Secretary, Honorary Treasurer and Honorary Handicapping Secretary plus the ex-officio Captain.
6.2 The Officers of the Ladies' Branch shall be The Captain, Vice Captain, Honorary Secretary, Honorary Treasurer, and Honorary Handicapping Secretary plus the ex-officio Captain.
6.3 The members of the Council shall be the Chairperson, Hon Secretary, Hon Treasurer, Course Officer and Facilities Officer. All of them shall be members of at least 5 years standing elected by ballot at the Annual General Meeting (the AGM) or Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM). The term of office for the Chairperson, Secretary shall be 3 years, and 2 years for the Hon Treasurer, Course Officer and Facilities Officer. The above officers may not serve more than two consecutive terms. The Captain and Vice Captain of the Ladies and Gents Branches shall also be members of the Council.
6.4 The Joint Club shall elect a President annually at the AGM. He or She can only serve one term. This office shall be held 1 year in 4 by Lady members.
6.4 All club officers referred to above shall assume office on the day following
the A. G. M. of the joint club.

7. MANAGEMENT

7.1 Allocation of Functions and Business:

7.1.1 The financial affairs of the Club shall be under the jurisdiction and control of the Council.
7.1.2. The Council has the sole right to engage/dismiss employees and to define their duties.
7.1.3 The Council has such administrative powers as may be necessary for properly carrying out and furthering the objects of the Club in accordance with its rules.
7.1.4 The Council shall recommend for adoption to the AGM rates for Entrance fee (if any), Annual Membership Fee and levies if any.
7.1.5 The Council shall set rates for Green Fees and Societies together with any other charges applicable in the day to day running of the club.
7.1.4 The Council shall meet at least once a month.
7.1.5 Minutes recording all decisions of the Council shall be kept and every minute signed by the Chairman shall be sufficient evidence of the facts therein contained
7.1.6 The Council may at it’s discretion formulate, initiate and direct the implementation of any policy or programme by any employee, member, officer or committee including the Secretary Manager and may direct or require the attendance of any member, committee member, or Club Officer to it,s deliberations.
7.1.7 The Council shall be the sole body entitled to expend monies or authorize the expenditure of monies on behalf of the Club. No member, officer or committee shall do any act or thing purporting to incur any financial liability on behalf of the club without the prior formal written approval of the Council.
7.1.8 The Council shall deal with breaches of discipline in accordance with clauses 17 and 18.
7.1.9 Any casual vacancy on the council shall be filled by the council and any member(s) so chosen shall retire at the following annual general meeting but shall be eligible for re-election.
7.1.10 The Golf course shall not be altered, changed or modified in any way without the prior express approval of the Council.
7.1.11 The Council shall have power to introduce such Rules and Bye-laws as it considers appropriate for the proper management of the Club and it’s affairs and for the furtherance of the Clubs objects and aims and the Members shall be bound by such Rules and Bye-laws which should be introduced only at a AGM or an EGM, duly convened in the proper fashion.

7.1.12.The Council shall not be entitled without the passing of a Special Resolution of the Ordinary Members at a General Meeting of the Club to:

(a) Wind up the affairs of the Club
(b) Acquire land or property
(c) Dispose of any part of any lands or property owned by the Club
(d) Alter, amend, revoke and/or vary any part of this Constitution, save as indicated in clause 26.5

7.1.13 The Council shall not be entitled without the prior approval of the Ordinary Members at a General Meeting of the Club to involve the Club in any one year in any expenditure of a non-recurring nature exceeding a sum to be agreed by the Ordinary Members at a General Meeting of the Club

7.1.14 The business and affairs of the Men's Branch shall be under the jurisdiction and control of a General Committee (hereinafter referred to as "the Men's Committee") consisting of the Officers of the Men's Branch and six other members of the Men's Branch elected under Sub - Clause 7.2.4 and Clause 21.7.

7.1.15 The business and affairs of the Ladies' Branch shall be under the jurisdiction and control of a General Committee (hereinafter referred to as the "Ladies Committee") consisting of the Officers of the Ladies' Branch and eight other members of the Ladies' Branch elected under Sub-Clause 7.2.4 and Clause 21.7.

7 .1.16 The business and affairs of the Joint Club shall be under the jurisdiction and control of Council.

7.1.16.1. Ladies and Gents Branches shall each appoint a Junior Convenor to promote junior golf within the club.
7.1.17 Each of the aforementioned Committees may exercise it's powers notwithstanding that there might be a vacancy or vacancies in it's Membership
7.1.18 Nothing in this rule shall preclude a member or either the Men's or Ladies' Committees being also a member of the Council or vice versa.
7.1.19 At Meetings of any of the foregoing Committees 50% plus one of those entitled to attend and vote shall form a quorum.
7.1.20 At Meetings of the Men's' and Ladies' Committees the Chair shall be taken by the Captain or, if absent, by the Vice Captain of the Club concerned. At Meetings of the Council the Chair shall be taken by the Chairperson or, if absent, those in attendance having votes shall elect a Chairperson.
7.1.21 The Chairperson at a Meeting shall, in addition to a deliberative vote, have and shall exercise, a casting vote

7.2 Elections – Council, Ladies and Gents Branch Officers and Committees

Council.
7.2.1 Nominations (with the consent of the nominee) for vacancies on the council shall be made by any ordinary voting Member of the Club.
By the following method
(i) Nominations must be with the Honorary Secretary of the Club with one proposer and two seconders at least 8 days prior to the Annual General Meeting.
(ii) Nominations shall be placed on the nomination forms which shall be placed by the Honorary Secretary on the Clubhouse notice board 21 days prior to the A.G.M. Nominations close 8 days prior to the AGM.
7.2.2 The Secretary of the Club shall post all valid nomination papers on the clubhouse notice board 7 days prior to the AGM.

Gents and Ladies Branch Officers

7.2.3 The Captain of each of the Men's Branch and the Ladies' Branch shall retire after one year’s service and be succeeded by the Vice Captain. The outgoing Captains shall be Members of their respective Committees for the following year, without requiring election, if they so wish.
7.2.4 All Honorary Officers of the Ladies and Gents Branches shall retire annually and shall be eligible for re-election provided that the same office shall not be held by the same Officer for a period exceeding four consecutive years,
7.2.5 The election of Office Bearers, and Members of Committee shall be made at their respective Annual General Meetings.
7.2.6 The Vice-Captains in Office shall each have the right to nominate for election the Vice-Captain for the ensuing year of their respective Clubs subject to the approval of the Men's and Ladies' Committees concerned.
7.2.7 Nominations (with the consent of the nominee) for election to any Honorary Office or as an Ordinary Member of the Committee shall be made, except as heretofore provided:-
(i) By the General Committee of the particular Club or
(ii) By any two ordinary voting Members of the particular Club
7.2.8 All nominations shall be given to the Honorary Secretary of the particular Club concerned at least 8 days prior to the Annual General Meeting of that Club
7.2.9 A complete list of nominees (Officers and Committee) together with the names of their proposers and seconders must be posted on the Club Notice Board for at least seven days prior to the date of the particular Annual General Meeting.
7.2.10 The respective Committees shall have power to fill vacancies in any of these Offices (including Membership of its Committee) during the year. Any person so appointed shall hold office in an acting capacity.
7.2.11 No candidate shall be eligible for election unless they have been a Full Ordinary Member for a minimum of 3 years immediately prior to the date of the election.

7.3 Committee Meetings
7.3.1 Stated meeting of the Men's and the Ladies' Committees shall be held at least in every two months.
7.3.2 Upon a requisition signed by not less than 50% of members of a Committee, stating the nature of the business to be transacted, the Captain, Chairperson or Honorary Secretary of the Committee concerned shall call a Special Meeting of such Committee for the consideration thereof; and if the Officers designated above neglect or refuse to call such Meetings within seven days the same may be convened by notice signed by not less than 50% of Members of such Committee.

Council Meetings
7.3.3 Stated meetings of the Council shall be held at least once a month on at least 7 days notice.
7.3.4 Special Meetings may be held for the transaction of urgent business at the discretion of the Chairperson.

7.4 Management Regulations
7.4.1 In consultation with both the Men's and the Ladies' Committees the Council is also empowered to make such Local Rules (provided same are not at variance with the Rules of Golf) and regulations for the use of the Course as are required in the interest of all Members.
7.4.2 Every member of every category and every visitor or other person using the Clubhouse or Course shall be subject to, and must comply with all Rules, Bye-Laws and Regulations in force.

7.5 Appointment of Sub-Committees
7.5.1 The Men's and the Ladies' branches and the Council shall each have power to appoint Sub-Committees and to define the scope of their authority and to delegate and confer upon such Sub-Committees the powers necessary for the discharge of the function or functions for which the Sub-Committees were formed. Decisions of Sub-Committees must be approved by the appointing committee before implementation.
7.5.2 Each Sub-Committee shall retire annually on the date of the relevant Annual General Meeting Club or when the function is completed, whichever is the sooner.
7.5.3 The Quorum of each Sub-Committee shall be defined at the time of appointment
7.5.4 The Chairperson of each Sub-Committee shall, in addition to a deliberative vote, have and shall exercise a casting vote.

8. ADMINISTRATION

8.1 The three sections of the Club shall be administered as follows:-
8.1.1 The Hon. Secretary of the Men's Branch shall be responsible for the every-day affairs of that Branch except such duties which are specifically assigned to another member of the Men's Branch.
8.1.2 The Hon. Secretary of the Ladies' Branch shall be responsible for the every-day affairs of that Branch except such duties which are specifically assigned to another member of the Ladies Branch.
8.1.3 The Chairperson of the Council shall be responsible for the every-day affairs of that Club except such duties which are specifically assigned to another member of the Club or to the Secretary- Manager, if any.
8.1.4 All written complaints concerning matters under the jurisdiction and control of the Committee of the Branch concerned shall be referred primarily to the Hon. Secretary of that Branch who, if unable to resolve same, shall place the complaint on the agenda for the next Meeting of the Committee of such a Branch for investigation and decision.
8.1.5 The Honorary Secretary of the Council shall also act as Liaison Officer between the Council and each of the Men's and the Ladies' Committees and the Secretary Manager if any.

9. FINANCE

9.1 The financial affairs of the Joint Club shall be operated as follows:

9.1.1 The Honorary Treasurer of the Council shall keep full and detailed ` accounts, books and records, showing the financial affairs, receipts and disbursements of the Council.
9.1.2 The Banking account shall be kept in the name of the joint club (and shall be clearly identified as such) in such Bank as the Council may from time to time determine. All cheques shall have two signatures, one of which must be Honorary Treasurer.
9.1.3 The Honorary Treasurer of the Council shall issue an audited statement of the affairs of the Joint Club for the financial year ended 30th September for consideration by the Council and for presentation and approval by the members at the following Annual General Meeting of the Joint Club.
9.1.4 The Council shall take control of all income generated by the Ballinrobe Golf Club.
9.1.4 (a). In the event that either the Mens or Ladies Branch generates surplus funds in their respective accounts from time to time it shall be the responsibility of the respective Branch Treasurers to return such funds to the main Club account in consultation with the Council Treasurer.
9.1.5 The Council shall have sole power to borrow for the purpose of the Club by way of overdraft, term loan, loan account guarantee or otherwise from the Clubs Bankers with interest in the category of the accommodation granted, such amount of monies either at one time or from time to time as they may deem proper and to give security for the such borrowing and the interest thereon by the issue of Bills of Exchange, Promissory Notes, or other obligations or securities of the Club or by mortgage or charge or guarantee upon all or any part of the property of the Club and thereupon the Trustees shall ask the direction of the Council to make all such dispositions of the property of the Club or any part thereof and enter into such agreements in relation thereto as the Council may deem proper for giving such security.

9.2 The Financial affairs of the Men’s Branch shall be operated as follows:

9.2.1 The Hon treasurer of the men’s Branch shall perform his duties under the jurisdiction and control of the Hon Treasurer of the Council.
9.2.2 The Honorary Treasurer of the Men's Branch shall keep full and detailed accounts, books and records, showing the financial affairs, receipts and disbursements of the Men's Branch.
9.2.3 The Banking account shall be kept in the name of the Men's Branch (and shall be clearly identified as such) in such Bank as the Men's Committee may, in consultation with the Council from time to time determine. All cheques shall be signed as authorised by resolution of the Committee.
9.2.4 The Honorary Treasurer of the Men's Branch shall issue a statement of the affairs of the Men's Branch for the financial year ended 30th September for consideration by the Men's Committee and for presentation and approval by the members at the Annual General meeting of the Men's Branch which shall be held not later than 16th November following.
9.2.5 Following the Meeting of the Men's Committee at which the accounts are considered and approved the Honorary Treasurer shall immediately forward a copy of the accounts to the Honorary Treasurer of the Council.
9.2.6 The Men's Committee shall be responsible for the payment to The Golfing Union of Ireland of the annual per capita subscription and Provincial levy on Members as required by the Bye-Laws of that Union

9.3 The financial affairs of the Ladies’- Branch shall be operated as follows:

9.3.1 The Hon treasurer of the Ladies Branch shall perform her duties under the jurisdiction and control of the Hon Treasurer of the Council.
9.3.2 The Honorary Treasurer of the Ladies' Branch shall keep full and detailed accounts, books and records showing the financial affairs, receipts and disbursements of the Ladies Branch
9.3.3 The Banking account shall be kept in the name of the Ladies' Branch (and shall be clearly identified as such) in such Bank as the Ladies' Committee may, in consultation with the Council from time to time determine. All cheques shall be signed as authorised by resolution of the Committee.
9.3.4 The Honorary Treasurer of the Ladies' Branch shall issue a statement of the affairs of the Ladies' Branch for the financial year ended 30th September for consideration by the Ladies' Committee and for presentation and approval the members at the Annual General Meeting of the Ladies' Branch which shall be held not later than 16th November following.
9.3.5 Following the Meeting of the Ladies' Committee at which the accounts are considered the Honorary Treasurer shall immediately forward a copy of the accounts to the Honorary Treasurer of the Council for information.
9.3.6 The Ladies' Committee shall be responsible for the payment to The Irish Ladies Golfing Union of the annual per capita subscription on Members as required by the Constitution of that Union.

10 ELECTION OF MEMBERS

10.1 The maximum number of Members electable to the different categories shall be decided at an AGM of the Joint Club.
10.1.1 The election of all Male Playing Members shall be in the hands of the Men's Committee.
10.1.2 The election of all Female Playing Members shall be in the hands of the Ladies' Committee.
10.1.3 The election of all Social or House Members shall be in the hands of the Council.

10.2 The procedure for the election of Members shall be as follows:
10.2.1 Each candidate for election (except in the case of Honorary Members) must be proposed by one voting Member and seconded by two other voting Members of the Club.
10.2.2 A member proposing or seconding a candidate for Membership must be a voting Member of at least 3 years standing.
10.2.3 The Proposer and Seconder must each know their candidate personally and shall if required write a letter addressed to their Committee stating their personal knowledge of their candidate.
10.2.4 A list of applicants for Membership shall be kept by the Secretary of the Council and their names shall be put forward for election in the order of application. The Council may however by a majority of three quarters of those present at any meeting, give priority to any candidate whose early election they consider to be of advantage to the Club.
10.2.5 The Council shall forward all applicants with recommendations to the Hon. Secretary of the appropriate Branch whose committee shall make the final decision by a simple majority of those members present and voting.
10.2.6 The name and address of the candidate shall be posted on the Clubhouse Notice Board for at least 7 days before the meeting to consider the application.
10.2.7 Any omission from or inaccuracy in the particulars relating to any candidate shall render election void.
10.2.8 Immediately on election of a candidate to Membership of the Men's Branch or Ladies Branch the Branch concerned shall notify the Council of the name, address and category of the elected candidates. Notice in writing shall be dispatched to all elected candidates by the Hon. Secretary, together with a copy of the club constitution and Rules. Appropriate fees must be paid on ratification to the Club or it's Bankers within one calendar month from the date of such request. The candidate shall become a Member of the Club on payment of the fees and shall be entitled to the benefits and privileges of such membership and be bound by it's rules
10.2.9 Should the requested payment not be made within one calendar month of the date of such request as aforesaid, the election shall be void unless the candidate shall satisfy the Committee concerned that the delay in payment was due to some unavoidable cause

11. CATEGORY OF MEMBERS

11.1 The following shall be the category of Members which may be elected to the Club:
11.2. Full Ordinary Members shall comprise of Men and Women who having paid the entrance fee (if any), annual subscription or life membership subscription and capital levy (if any) shall be entitled to attend and vote at all Annual General and Special General Meetings of the Joint club. Only a Member of this category shall have an interest in the Club property which interest shall cease on such member leaving this category unless the Member has been elected an Honorary Member of the Club.

11.2. Junior Members shall comprise of young persons whose ages at the date of election shall not be less than 8 years or more than eighteen years. Such membership shall cease on 31st December next after such Junior has attained the age of 18 years.

11.3 Student Members shall comprise of persons in full time education and as the Council may decide provided that student membership should cease on the member reaching their 26th birthday.

11.4 Junior and Student Members on ceasing to be eligible for these categories and wishing to be elected to Full Ordinary Member shall be given priority at the discretion of the Branches.
Any other category of playing member wishing to become a Full Ordinary Member shall likewise be given such priority

11.5 Country Members shall comprise of persons who are voting members of another affiliated golf club which is more than 80Kilometres from Ballinrobe Golf Club.

1 1.6 Overseas Members shall comprise of persons whose permanent residence is outside Ireland. Such Membership shall terminate as and when the Member comes to reside permanently in Ireland

11.7 Honorary Members shall comprise of persons whom the Committee concerned wish to acknowledge as having rendered exceptional service to the Club or to the game of golf or whose distinguished position or public service would render their membership of special advantage to the Club. No one shall be appointed an Honorary Member until:
a) Recommended by at least two-thirds of the entire Committee concerned voting in secret ballot and:
b) Subsequently ratified by a simple majority of the Annual General Meeting of the Joint club voting by secret ballot.
11.8 Honorary Members who have been Full Ordinary Members shall have all the entitlements of Full Ordinary Members. Honorary Members who have not been Full Ordinary Members shall have all the entitlements of Ordinary members except that they shall not have voting rights nor any interest in the Club's property‚

12. ENTRANCE FEE

12.1 Any entrance fee to be applied to any category of membership shall be the decision as decided at the AGM of the Joint Club.
12.2 Student and Junior Members shall not be required to pay an entrance fee
12.3 When a student or Junior Member is obliged to relinquish either category within the Club, an appropriate entrance fee shall be payable on election, as decided at an AGM of the Joint Club.
12.4 Should a Country Member apply to become a Member of another category it should be a matter for the Joint Club and Council to decide in their absolute discretion as to what the appropriate amount payable shall be for the election of that member to the new category.

13. ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION

13.1 All Categories of members, except Honorary Members and Life Members shall be required to pay an Annual Subscription
13.2 The amount payable by the different categories shall initially be fixed by the Council and ratified or altered at the next Annual General Meeting of the Joint Club.
13.3 All subscriptions shall become payable on 1st January in any year.
13.4 A member whose subscription shall be unpaid on the 1st March, shall not be entitled to use the Clubs facilities or compete in any Club Competition.
The Council may re-elect such a member without entrance fee, re-nomination or re-posting, within 12 months from the date when the subscription became due, on payment of all subscriptions and other monies due to the Club.

14. CAPITAL LEVY

14.1 A Capital levy shall only be imposed by a resolution at a General Meeting of Club.

15. MODIFICATION OF ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION

15.1 The Council has the right to waive or modify the subscription, or levy of any member as they see fit.

16. VISITORS AND TEMPORARY MEMBERS

16.1 Any Full Ordinary or Honorary Member may introduce Visitors
16.2 It shall be a condition that the Member effecting the introduction shall enter each Visitors name, address and date of visit immediately on entering the Clubhouse in a book kept for the purpose called a "Visitors Book" and such entry must be attested by the signature of the introducing Member.
16.3 No Visitor shall be supplied with excisable liquor in the Club premises unless on the invitation of and in the company of, the introducing Member.
16.4 The charge for Visitors shall be fixed from time to time by the Council who are also empowered to make regulations for the admission of non-playing Visitors.
16.5 Every playing Visitor must procure a numbered Green fee voucher bearing the Visitors name and the date on which the visitor can use the facilities of the Course and Clubhouse.
16.6 On the issue of each Green Fee Voucher the name of the Visitor and introducing Member must be immediately entered in a "Green Fee Book"_
16.7 In addition the Secretary Manager or his/her representative or any past or present member of the Men's or Ladies' Committees or of the Council having made and attested the necessary entry in the visitors' Book, may permit a person or a group not having an introduction from a Member, to play on the Course and use the Clubhouse on payment of the current Green Fee
16.8 The payment of the Green Fee shall entitle the Visitor to temporary Membership of the Club for the day
16.9 A Member who fails to enter a Visitor's name in the Visitor's Book may be liable to a fine to be decided by Council and shall be personally responsible for the payment of the appropriate Green Fee where applicable
16.10 The Council shall have power to suspend the rules permitting the introduction of visitors or temporary members at any time and refuse permission for any particular visitor or temporary member to use the Clubhouse or Course.
16.11 Competitors in Club Open Competitions held on the course and extending for more than one day shall, on payment of the entrance fee and the green fee, if any, for the competition and on such fee being accepted by the Committee in charge of the Competition, be eligible to use the course and the Clubhouse, without further payment or nomination for election as Temporary Members and for every day during the continuance of such competition
16.12 Competitors in Club Competitions limited to one day shall likewise be eligible for Temporary Membership status on the day of the competition only.
16.13 Any Office Bearer or any two Members of the Council may (and without assigning any cause if they so think right) cancel the admission of any Day Visitor or Temporary Member whose admission may be irregular or whose presence or conduct they may deem objectionable, or who deliberately breaks any of the Rules, Bye-Laws, or regulations of the Club.
16.14 The fee paid by any such Visitor or Temporary Member may, at the discretion of the Secretary Manager be either forfeited or refunded

17. FINES AND SUSPENSIONS

17.1 The Council is empowered to impose fines for breaches of the Rules, Bye-Laws and Regulations of the Joint Club in force for the time being or for breaches of the etiquette of golf, and may also at any time (either instead of, or in addition to, fines) temporarily withdraw the use of the Clubhouse and Course from any Member whose conduct or breaches of the Rules, Bye-Laws or regulations may, in the opinion of the Council justify this course.
17.2 Any Member refusing or failing to pay a fine so imposed within 4 weeks after notification thereof, shall be suspended from the use of the club- house and Course until such a fine has been paid.
17.3 Each of the Men's and the Ladies' Committee shall report any member of their Branch to the Council for investigation and penalty under this Rule if they, in their absolute discretion, consider the breach warrant it.

18. TERMINATION AND SUSPENSION OF MEMBERSHIP

18.1 If any allegation of misconduct by a Member be submitted to the Hon Secretary of the Council in writing. The Hon Secretary shall make such enquiries as are considered necessary to obtain all relevant details. Such information shall be placed before the Council which shall, in meeting, enquire into such conduct.
18.2 If in the opinion of the Council the conduct in question may warrant the suspension (by temporary withdrawal of the privilege of Membership) or expulsion of such Member, he or she shall be so informed in writing. The Member shall have the right to make an oral or written submission to any subsequent meeting at which the conduct in question shall be considered.
18.3 If after making such further enquiries as it considers necessary into the conduct of the Member and hearing such explanation, if any, as he or she may offer, the Council decides that his or her conduct has not been explained or accounted for, to its satisfaction, but was not such as to warrant expulsion of the Member, the Council may instead, by a majority, suspend the member for a period not exceeding 3 months, the Council shall notify the Men's or Ladies' Branch that elected such Member of it's decision, with which such Branch shall abide. Should the majority of the Council present at a meeting not be satisfied that the charges of misconduct has been proved, no further action shall be taken.
18.4 If no explanation of his or her conduct shall be given by the Member, or if such explanation shall be considered unsatisfactory, the Council may, provided that not less than three-quarters of the Members present at a meeting vote for such course of action:
(i) Recommend to the Branch concerned that such Member be expelled by the Branch which may, in its' absolute discretion, decide to act upon or reject such recommendation. The Branch shall notify the Council of its' decision and if it rejects the recommendation it shall request the Council to proceed in accordance with Clause 18.3.
18.5 If on taking a vote under Clause 18.4 less than three-quarters of the Members present vote for expulsion, the Council shall make a decision in accordance with clause 18.3.
18.6 When the Branch concerned has resolved that a Member be suspended or expelled, such a member shall, within seven days of the date of the decision, be given notice, in writing by the Honorary Secretary, or other authorized officer, of his or her club of the decision, by registered post or be delivery of such notice to his or her last known address. Such a person shall have the right of appeal against the decision within fourteen days of the date of the decision. The appeal shall be made, in writing, to the Honorary Secretary of the Council.
18.7 Notice of an appeal under clause 18.6 having been given, the decision shall not take effect for a period of twenty-one days from the date of the decision and the relevant Men's or Ladies' Branch notified of such an appeal.
18.8 The Member shall have the right to have the appeal heard at an Extraordinary General Meeting requisitioned or procured either by the Member in question or by any other Full Ordinary Member. This meeting shall, by a majority decide whether the expulsion shall be confirmed or repealed, or whether the period of suspension shall be confirmed, reduced or repealed. Should the signatures provided for in sub-clause 19.5.1 not be obtained within twenty-one days from the date of decision, the Council shall have the power to deem the appeal to have lapsed and to enforce the decision forthwith.
18.9 A decision by the Council under this rule shall stand unless and until an appeal is received by the Hon Secretary of the Council against it. Provided an appeal has been received, and an Extraordinary General Meeting duly requisitioned, the expulsion or suspension shall not then take effect pending the holding of the E.G.M.
18.10 During the period of suspension the Member shall NOT be entitled:
(i) To enter upon the Club property, whether in the company of another Member or otherwise, save only to collect his or her property or for the purposes of attending any General Meeting which may be held during the period of suspension.
(ii) To the refund or rebate of the whole or part of his or her annual subscription or other sum paid or payable by him, or her to the club in respect of the year during which the suspension occurs.
18.11 A person who has been expelled from Membership shall not be entitled:
(i) To enter upon the Clubs property, whether in the company of another Member or otherwise, save only to collect his, or her property.
(ii) To the refund or rebate of the whole or part of his or her annual subscription or other sum paid or payable by him or her to the club in respect of the year during which the expulsion occurs.

19. GENERAL MEETING

19.1 The Men’s Branch
19.1.1 The Annual General Meeting of the Men's Branch shall, save in exceptional circumstances, be held in the month of October for receiving the Men’s Branch Committee's Annual Report and the Financial Statement for the year ended the previous 30th September for electing Office Bearers, Members of committee, Auditors, revising (subject to approval of the Joint Club) it's rules and transacting such other business of the Men's Branch as may be on the Agenda.
9.1.2 Fourteen days notice, at least, of such Annual General Meeting shall be given to the Male Ordinary Members of the Branch who are the only persons entitled to attend and vote at an Annual General Meeting of the Men's Branch.
9.1.3 Such notice shall be accompanied by the Financial Statement referred to in part 19.1.1.
9.1.4 Notices of Motion and nominations of Officers and members of Committee of the Men's Branch must be made to the Hon. Secretary in writing at least seven days before the date of such Meeting.

19.1.5 Such notices and nominations shall be promptly posted on the Club notice board.
19.1.6 Should there be insufficient nominations for Officer or Committee posted as in sub-section 19.1.4. all those properly proposed and seconded candidates shall be automatically elected. The Chairman at the meeting shall call for and accept nominations for the remaining vacancies.

19.2 The Ladies Branch
19.2.1 The Annual General Meeting of the Ladies' Branch shall, save in exceptional‚ circumstances, be held in the month of October for receiving the Ladies' Branch Committee's Annual Report and the Financial Statement for the year ended the previous 30th September, for electing Office Bearers, Members of Committee, Auditors, revising (subject to approval of the Joint Club), it's rules and transacting such other business of the Ladies' Branch as may be on the Agenda.
19.2.2 Fourteen days notice, at least, for such Annual General Meeting shall be given to the Female Full Ordinary Members of the Branch who are the only persons entitled to attend and vote at an Annual General Meeting of the Ladies' Branch.
19.2.3 Such notice shall be accompanied by the Financial Statement referred to in 19.2.1
19.2.4 Notices of Motion and nominations of Officers and members of the Committee of the Ladies' Branch must be made to the Hon. Secretary in writing at least seven days before the date of such Meeting.
19.2.5 Such notices and nominations shall be promptly posted on the Club notice board.
19.2.6 Should there be insufficient nominations for Officer or Committee posted as in sub-section 19.2.4, all those properly proposed and seconded candidates shall be automatically elected. The Chairwoman at the meeting shall call for and accept nominations for the remaining vacancies.

19.3 The Joint Club
19.3.1 The Annual General Meeting of the Joint Club shall, save in exceptional circumstances, be held in the month of November. The Notice convening such Annual General Meeting shall specify the Meeting as such.
19.3.2. In the case of an Annual General Meeting the Notice of Meeting shall specify the matters for consideration at the Meeting and the names of those persons who are proposed for election to the Council or to the Office of President or Trustee.

The following business shall be transacted at every Annual General Meeting of the Club:

(1) The draft minutes of the previous Annual General Meeting, and the draft minutes of any other General Meeting of the Club held in the interim (that shall have been distributed with the Notice of Meeting to the Ordinary Members of the Club) shall be read by the Club Secretary if present or if the Club Secretary be absent by any other person as may be appointed by the Chairman of the Meeting, or they may be taken as read on a proposal from the Meeting, and when the Meeting confirms the minutes as read or as altered by the Meeting, they shall be signed by the Chairman.
The above draft minutes shall be posted on the Notice Board in the Clubhouse for at least 14 days prior to the date of the Meeting.

(2) The Audited Accounts including Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Accounts for the preceding financial year shall be read and adopted, if approved by the Members.

(3) The appointment of Auditors shall be approved.
(4) The Chairman of the Meeting or such Officer appointed by him/her shall present the reports on the activities of the Club since the last Annual General Meeting, including the following, Council Report/Plans, Course Report, Facilities Report and Treasurer’s Report, which fall within the aegis of the Council.
(5) The election of persons, duly proposed and seconded, to any vacancies that exist on the (Council), other than the Gents Captain, and Lady Captain.
(6) The election of person to the Office of President, or Trustee, as and when necessary.
(7) The consideration of the Operating and Financial Budgets for the forthcoming year.
(8) Motions properly before the Meeting.

(9) Motions concerning the business affairs and the running of the Club may be submitted by the Council, Trustees or by any ordinary member of the Club for consideration at the Annual General Meeting. Every Motion shall be in writing and shall be signed by the Ordinary Member proposing it and seconded by an Ordinary Member entitled to attend and vote at such Meeting. No Motion will be laid before an Annual General Meeting unless it is addressed to the Hon Secretary and received at the Clubhouse not less than 8 days prior to the date fixed for the holding of the Meeting. A copy of Motion with the names of the proposer and seconder shall be posted on the Notice Board in the Clubhouse for at least 7 days prior to the date of the Meeting.

(10) The only exception to the above rule is, in the event that a Motion is passed at either the Men’s and/or Ladies’ Annual General Meeting, then such a Motion may be considered at that Club Annual General Meeting.

(11) Any other business properly notified at the opening of the Meeting.

(12) Where the Chairman of the Meeting rules a question raised by a Member present at the Meeting to be appropriate and where the (Council) are unable to provide a full response at the Meeting, the Chairman shall direct the (Council) to provide a response to that Member in writing, within two weeks.

19.4 Extradinary General Meeting (EGM)

19.4.1 Special General Meeting of any of the Club and or Branches may be called at any time by direction of the Council or the Committee concerned or on a requisition to the Secretary of the particular club, signed by at least 20% of members entitled to vote at such Meeting, stating the business to be brought forward.

19.4.2 On receipt of such requisition it shall be the duty of the Committee of such Club to have a General Meeting called without delay and in the event that the said meeting is not called by the Committee within 14 days after receipt of the requisition by the Secretary, two members who have signed the requisition may issue notice of a General Meeting, which notice shall be sufficient if published in an issue of the Western People - Connacht Tribune - Mayo News and also posted on the Clubs notice board at least ten days before the date fixed for such a meeting.

19.5 Chairperson at General Meetings
19.5.1 The Captain, or if absent, the Vice Captain shall preside at all General Meetings of the Mens' Branch and the Ladies' Branch respectively.
19.5.2 The Chairperson of the Council shall preside at all General Meetings of the Joint Club.
19.5.3 If any of the foregoing Officers are absent or decline to preside any other Chairperson may be appointed at the Meeting.
19.5.4 Each Chairperson in addition to a deliberative vote shall have and shall exercise a casting vote.
19.5.5 Standing Orders for every General Meeting must be adopted at the start of the meeting and shall bind that meeting unless suspended by vote of two-thirds of those present and voting.

20. NOTICES OF GENERAL MEETINGS

20.1 Seven days notice of every General Meeting convened by order of a Committee (except Meetings called under Clause 19.5.4 when ten days are required) shall be given to the members entitled to attend and vote at such meetings, by a circular specifying the time and place of such meeting and business to be transacted.
20.2 All notices calling Meetings must be sent by post and addressed to Members at such addresses as may be recorded in the Club books.

21. MODE OF VOTING AT GENERAL MEETINGS

21.1 No proxies shall be allowed
21.2 Voting shall be either by a show of hands or by ballot
21.3 Ballot shall mean a vote on voting paper
21.4 A majority of one shall be sufficient to decide any question under discussion unless a greater majority is required by some other Club rule
21.5 In the event of a tie the Chairperson shall have and shall exercise a casting vote as provided in Sub-Clause 19.5.4.
21.6 If any member at a General Meeting propose that the mode of voting on any particular matter should be by ballot and this is seconded by another member, then the question of whether voting should be by a show of hands or by ballot shall be decided by a show of hands.
21.7 An election of candidates for membership of the Committee of either the Mens' or Ladies' Branches or for membership of the Council shall be by ballot and all members voting must vote for the full number of candidates for whom there are vacancies otherwise such voting paper is invalid.

22. MINUTE BOOKS

22.1 The Men's Branch, the Ladies' Branch, Joint Club and the Council shall each keep:
22.1.1 A Minute Book in which shall be recorded the Minutes of Annual and Special General Meetings and also
22.1.2 A Minute Book in which shall be recorded the Minutes of all Committee meetings held in compliance with clause 7.3.
22.1.3 The respective minutes shall be read out at the next General or Statutory Committee Meeting and, when approved as being a correct record, shall be signed and dated by the Chairperson.
22.1.4 The Men's Branch and the Ladies' Branch shall each submit it's Minute Books to the Council when required.

23. PLAYING FACILITIES:

23.1 The Council in consultation with the Men's and Ladies' Committees, shall prescribe the days and times when the Members of the Men's or Ladies' Branch shall have use of the Course for competitions or when the course is reserved for team matches or Union Branch or District events.
23.2 It shall also decide on the facilities to be afforded to societies subject to the proviso that the 1st tee shall be reserved for Club members on any day a Society Outing is permitted for such periods as are considered necessary for the convenience of the members
23.3 The Council shall also be empowered to direct the days and times when four balls or singles shall have priority, commencing play on the 1st or 10th tees, and generally regulate the use of the Course for the benefit of members.

24. PERSONAL PROPERTY

24.1 Any personal belongings of Members, Visitors and others, brought to, or kept at, or left on the premises of the Club (either Clubhouse or outside in the Car park or on the Course) shall be at the sole risk of the owners, and neither the Club nor any of the Council shall be responsible for any loss or damage thereto however arising; but this rule shall not prejudice any claims by the Club or the owners against Insurance Companies in case of fire, or when otherwise covered by Insurance.

25. REGISTRATION OF CLUBS ACTS, 1904-1988
INTOXICATING LIQUOR ACT 1988 and 2000 as amended

25.1 No person other than a Member or invited guest as defined in Clause 25.2. Clause 3.3 and Clause 16 shall order or pay for refreshments in the Clubhouse.
25.2 No visitor shall be supplied with excisable liquor on the club premises unless on the invitation of and in the company of a Member, and that Member shall, upon the admission of visitor to the Club premises or immediately upon his being supplied with such liquor, enter his or her own name and the name and address of the visitor in a book which shall be kept for the purpose and which shall show the date of such a visit.
25.3 The Council may prohibit the admission of any visitor to the Club premises and no member shall bring any person whose admission is prohibited into the club premises.
25.4 No excisable liquor shall be sold or supplied for consumption outside the premises of the Club, except to Members of the Club, between the hours of eight o'clock in the morning and ten o'clock at night.
25.5 No excisable liquor shall be sold or supplied in the Club premises to any person under the age of eighteen years.
25.6 No Member of the Council or Officer and no Manager or Servant employed by the Club, shall have any personal interest in the sale of the Club of supplies of excisable liquor, or in the profits arising from such sale.
25.7 Subject to the exceptions contained in Clause 25.8 no excisable liquor shall be supplied for consumption on the Club premises to any other person (other than a member of the Club lodging in the Club premises) or be consumed on the Club premises by any person (other than a member of the Club lodging on the Club premises).
25.7.1 On any day before the hour of 10.30a.m.in the morning or after the hour of 11.30 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, or after the hour of 12.30a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, or on Sundays before the hour of 12.30p.m. or after the hour of 11.00p.m.
25.7.2 On St. Patrick's Day, where that day falls on a weekday, before the hour of half-past twelve o'clock in the afternoon or after the hour of eleven o'clock in the evening or,
25.7.3 On St. Patrick’s Day, where that day falls on a weekday, before the hour of half-past twelve o'clock in the afternoon or after the hour of eleven o'clock in the evening, or
25.7.4 At any time on Christmas Day or Good Friday.
25.8 Nothing contained in the Registration of Clubs Acts 1904-1988, or contained by virtue only of the operation of clause 25.7 hereof, shall operate to prohibit the supplying for consumption of excisable liquor to any person or the consumption of excisable liquor on the club premises by any person:
25.8.2 During a period which is not a period of summertime, between the hours of eleven o'clock in the evening on any weekday and half past twelve o'clock in the morning of the following day
25.8.3 On any Sunday, between the hours of two o'clock and three o'clock in the afternoon, or
25.8.4 On Christmas Day, between the hours of one o'clock and three o'clock in the afternoon or the hours of seven o'clock and ten o'clock in the evening if, in each case the excisable liquor is
(i) Ordered by the person at the same time as a substantial meal is ordered by him or her
(ii) Consumed at the same time as and with the meal
(iii) Supplied and consumed in the portion of the club premises usually set apart for the supply of meals, and
(iv) Paid for at the same time as the meal is paid for
25.9 In Clauses 25.7 and 25.8 hereof 'period of summer time', 'weekdays', and 'Sunday' have the meanings assigned to them by section 1 of the Intoxicating Liquor act 1988.
25.10 The Constitution of Ballinrobe Golf Club is hereby deemed to include in full the provisos of section 7 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2000 in so far as
the Act refers to the Registration of Clubs Acts 1904 to 1999.

26. CHANGE OF CONSTITUTION AND RULES

26.1 No rule of either the Men's or Ladies' Branch shall be repealed or altered or new rule made except at a General Meeting of such Branch and by consent of at least two-thirds of the members present and entitled to vote at such meeting and written notice of the proposed changes must be sent to the Hon. Secretary with the names of the proposer and seconder attached, at least 8 days previous to the meeting at which same is to be considered.
26.2 No rule of the Joint Club, to include any proposal in relation to a sale, transfer, lease, licence or acquisition of lands or premises shall be repealed or altered or new rule made except at a General Meeting or Extraordinary General Meeting by consent of at least two thirds of the members present and entitled to vote at such meeting and written notice of the proposed change must be sent to the Hon. Secretary of the Council with the names of the proposer and Seconder attached at least eight days previous to the meeting at which same is to be considered.

26.3 The Hon. Secretary shall place the proposal on the club notice board and put item on the agenda of the next General Meeting of the Club concerned.

26.5 The Council may alter or add to this Constitution for the purpose of complying with the provisions of the Registration of Clubs (Ireland) Acts, 1904-2004 or of any Act which may be passed amending same, or for the purpose of complying with the Rules of Registration of the GUI, Connaught Branch of the Union, ILGU, Connaught District of the ILGU.
26.6 Any change in the rules of the Men's Branch shall not be in conflict with the Constitution of the Golfing Union of Ireland.
26.7 Any change in the rules of the Ladies' Branch shall not be in conflict with the Constitution of the Irish Ladies Golfing Union

27. RULES OF GOLF AND LOCAL RULES

27.1 The rules of the game of golf for the Men's and the Ladies' Branches shall be the Rules of the Golf as approved by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews.
27.2 In addition the Council in consultation with the Men's and the Ladies' Committees, in compliance with sub-clause 7.5.2, shall from time to time prescribe such local rules as it considers necessary, having regard to the nature of the course, or otherwise provided such local rules are not contrary to or at variance with the Rules of Golf or directives issued by the respective Union to which the Men’s Branch or the Ladies' Branch is affiliated.

28. BYE-LAWS

28.1 The Council shall have power from time to time in compliance with sub-clause 7.5.1 to make such bye-laws, as it considers necessary and to alter and repeal same.
28.2 Each of the Men's and the Ladies' Committees shall have power from time to time, to make such Bye-Laws that shall be subject to ratification, or otherwise, by the Council.