Irish Blind Sports General FAQ's

What is Irish Blind Sports?

Irish Blind Sports is the National Governing Body tasked with provided sport and recreational opportunities to blind, visually impaired and partially sighted people across Ireland. Our mission is to enable blind, visually impaired and partially sighted people to participate in the sport and/or recreation activity of their choice.

Is Irish Blind Sports a registered charity?

Yes.

How does Irish Blind Sports work?

Irish Blind Sports is made up of three part time staff, a Board of Directors and a group of volunteer Sports Coordinators. In the office there is an Executive Director, who is responsible for the general development of IBS; an Office Manager who runs the administrative side of things; and a Sports Development Officer who develops sporting new opportunities and maintains existing structures. Each sport is run by a volunteer Sport Coordinator. These coordinators are made up of coaches and sporting enthusiasts who give their time freely. Because of this structure, the availability of each sporting activity can vary from time to time.

What sports does Irish Blind Sports offer?

We have had the following sports available to members:
Angling – Judo – Tandem Cycling – Athletics – Swimming – Goalball – Chess – Snow Skiing – Ten pin Bowling – Equestrianism – Water Skiing – Golf – Football – Walking

What sports are currently active?

As of 2008 all sports are currently active with the exception of Equestrianism and Goalball.

Where are these sporting activities held?

At present, the majority of our sports take place in the Greater Dublin Area. We do have members however, who participate in their own local clubs all across the country and our Sports Development Officer is currently working with groups across the country to increase the sporting opportunities available.

Does Irish Blind Sports Provide transportation to the sporting activities?

Unfortunately no, we do not. We do however provide travel subsidies to groups wishing to participate in away games.

I am the parent of a blind/visually impaired/partially sighted child; can my child participate in these sports?

Yes. Although Irish Blind Sports typically targets people aged 18-55, we realise that there is a need for sporting opportunities for young people as well. As the majority of our members are adults, we ask that parents accompany their children when participating in our activities.

I am a senior citizen, are there any sporting opportunities for me?

Yes! If you would like more information on what sports may suit your needs, please contact the office.

Becoming a member of Irish Blind Sports FAQs

How do I become a member?

Becoming a member of Irish Blind Sports has never been easier. At present there are two ways to get your membership form: You can ring the office and request a form be posted out to you, in your choice of regular or large print or, you can request a form be sent to you by email. It is our intention to make all forms available on our website for download in the future.

Do I have to be blind to become a member?

No. Our membership is open to all people, no matter what their level of sight, and welcomes friends and families of blind and visually impaired people to get involved with our organisation.

What age do I have to be to become a member?

There are no age limits to becoming a member. Young people under the age of 18 must accompanied by an adult.

How much does it cost?

The membership fees cover membership for a period of one year and as of 2008 breakdown into the following:
Senior member (18+) €10
Junior member (Up to 18) €5
Lifetime member Please contact the office for more information

I belong to a group; can we join as an affiliate member?

Yes. The fee structure for this category is currently under review. At present the fee to join as an affiliate group is €10.

How do I pay my membership fee?

Irish Blind Sports will accept the following methods of payment for membership fees:
Cheque
Bank Giro
Electronic Transfer
Postal money order

All can be made payable to Irish Blind Sports. If you would like to pay by electronic transfer, please contact the office for our bank details.

What are the benefits of becoming a member?

There are many benefits of becoming a member including, but not limited to the following:
Access to all Irish Blind Sports Activities and events A right to vote at the Annual General Meeting Eligibility to receive funding toward travel for participation in your sport Access to qualified coaches when available A copy of the NCBI news sent to your address An opportunity (subject to qualification) to represent Ireland in international events An opportunity to meet other blind, visually impaired and partially sighted people An opportunity to get active while learning a new skill

Does membership include insurance cover?

Yes. All members are covered by Irish Blind Sports insurance for sports included in our program. For more information, please contact the office.

Does Irish Blind Sports have any volunteer opportunities?

Yes! Irish Blind Sports is always looking for dedicated and enthusiastic people to volunteer with us. There are many opportunities from Sports Coordinator, to fundraiser. Contact the office for more details.