Belfast, Northern Ireland – The Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) has today voted overwhelmingly to disaffiliate from the International Boxing Association (IBA), marking a defining moment in the history of Irish boxing. The motion was passed at the Association’s Annual General Meeting in Belfast, with 81% of members present voting in favour.
This landmark decision paves the way for Ireland’s re-affiliation with the Olympic Federation of Ireland (OFI), ensuring that Irish boxers can continue to compete at future Olympic Games under the Irish flag.
Speaking after the vote, IABA Chairperson Niall O’Carroll hailed the decision as a testament to the strength and unity of Irish boxing clubs across the country:
“Today’s vote reflects the collective commitment of our members and clubs to protect the future of Irish boxing on the world stage. This is a historic step that secures our Olympic pathway and reaffirms our dedication to the highest standards of governance, transparency, and athlete welfare. I want to pay tribute to our clubs and volunteers, whose passion and integrity have brought us to this point.I have said all along our members will decide our future and that is true today.”
The IABA’s decision follows a period of extensive consultation and reflection among members regarding the future direction of Irish boxing at both national and international levels. By aligning with the Olympic movement’s recognised governing structures, the Association reinforces its mission to support athletes at every stage — from grassroots to the global arena.
The IABA will now work closely with the Olympic Federation of Ireland and World Boxing to ensure a smooth transition and continued success for Ireland’s boxers in upcoming international competitions.
CEO Report
IABA CEO Gary Stewart delivered a presentation reflecting on his first three months in the role and outlining his vision for the future of Irish boxing.
Gary began by sharing insights from his personal journey in sports governance, recalling his tenure with Volleyball Ireland, where he led the organisation to become National Governing Body of the Year and a Good Governance Award recipient. He emphasised that the lessons learned from that experience — building trust, strengthening governance, and driving collaboration — are directly relevant to the IABA’s next phase of development.
Reflecting on his initial months with the Association, Gary identified several key themes that will underpin the IABA’s progress:
- Clarity and Strategic Direction: He stressed the importance of setting out clear strategies and roles across all levels of the Association to ensure alignment and accountability.
- Changing Perceptions of Boxing: Gary spoke about the need to reshape how boxing is viewed — highlighting its values of discipline, respect, and community — and to showcase the sport as a positive force in society.
- Improving the National Stadium: He acknowledged the importance of upgrading and enhancing the appearance of the National Stadium, both as a symbol of Irish boxing’s heritage and as a modern, welcoming venue for athletes, members, and fans. It should be a crown jewel.
- Enhancing Systems and Support for Volunteers: Recognising the vital role of volunteers, he committed to improving the IABA’s operational systems — particularly membership software and digital tools — to make administration simpler and more efficient.
- Engagement and Communication: Gary emphasised that the IABA’s strength lies in its people, underscoring his commitment to more open, consistent, and two-way communication with clubs, members, and stakeholders.
- Pathway: Gary emphasised the need for a coherent pathway and investment in youth boxing.
In closing, he thanked the clubs and members for their ongoing commitment to Irish boxing, the warm welcome he’s received and expressed optimism about the opportunities ahead following today’s decisive steps for the sport’s Olympic and governance future.
Our thanks to scrutineers Kevin Duffy (St. Joseph’s), Alan Donnellan (Monivea) and Trish McLoughlin (St. Catherine’s) and speakers on the Ordinary Resolution: Dino Dallat Ballymote, Darren McGavin of Neilstown, Garry Fay of Phoenix of Ballyboughal, Paddy Gallagher of Maynooth BC, Charlie Toland of Ormeau Road BC and Jimmy McGrath of St. Agnes BC.
High Performance Report
High Performance Director, Jon Mackey, delivered an over-view of his first 6 months in post.
This has included a Sport Ireland facilitated independent culture review, a root and branch evaluation of all aspects of the selection process. This evaulation will “fundamentally change how the HP programme is populated and how teams are selected”
Jon has also emphasised the importance of reconnecting with the membership – being available, being present and building on existing collaboration with Central Council.
Reports
Safeguarding, Anti-Doping and Financial reports were delivered as part of today’s AGM