Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 May 2022
788. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she intends to exempt voluntary community-based organisations from the need to register with the Charities Regulator; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24547/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Charities Regulator was established in October 2014 pursuant to the Charities Act 2009. The Regulator is the State organisation responsible for registering and regulating all of Ireland’s charities. The Department of Rural and Community Development has been assigned responsibility for the Charities Regulator. It is important to note however, that the Regulator is fully independent in the performance of its statutory functions.
Any organisation that meets the definition of a charitable organisation under the Charities Act 2009 must comply with the provisions of that Act.
Proper regulation of the sector and the provision of guidance to the sector, operated independently through the Charities Regulator, protects the charities sector and gives citizens the confidence needed to continue to give generously to many worthy charitable causes.
It is important that we strike the right balance between necessary regulation and proportionate governance, ensuring that a reasonable and fair approach applies.
The draft General Scheme of the Charities (Amendment) Bill was recently approved by Government and published. The Bill proposes to update existing charity law to improve the ability of the Charities Regulator to carry out its statutory functions and ensure greater public trust and confidence in the sector.
