One of the largest Irish dance bodies in the world has suspended 44 people from judging competitions and is set to hold full disciplinary hearings over allegations of involvement in wrongdoing.
Individuals were also suspended from adjudicating competitions pending proceedings.
It follows allegations earlier this year of violations of the code of conduct by An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha, allegedly related to alleged anti-competitive practices.
The allegations made in October are accompanied by evidence.
In a letter sent to dance teachers this afternoon, the Coimisiún said that an independent inquiry led and supervised by Judge Michael Peart had thoroughly investigated all the complaints, allegations and supporting evidence.
It said it had recommended that 44 cases undergo a full disciplinary hearing, that all those involved are notified and that the cases are reviewed by an independent panel.
The letter states that recruitment for this body is now underway.
In a statement tonight, Coimisiún said the 44 people were also suspended from deciding who is responsible while the disciplinary process is ongoing.
The development has been welcomed by some in the Irish dance community.
Sorcha Ní Chéide, an Irish dance teacher from Galway, said: “I was definitely shocked at the news, 44 people being investigated does seem like a lot of people. But I think its definitely going to be to be welcomed by teachers all over the world, in the interest of fairness for everyone involved,” report RTE.
A culture minister spokesperson, Catherine Martin, welcomed the development and stressed the importance of restoring public confidence in the fairness of Irish dance competitions, which he says are a key expression of Irish identity.
In its letter and statement, Coimisiún also said that it takes all allegations of wrongdoing very seriously and wanted to reassure members that he is fully committed to bringing about “positive change”.
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