On May 4th, 2024, Irish Handball News exposed issues surrounding the multiple board positions of the Olympic Handball Ireland Association (OHI), which functions as a federation. Secretary Michael Moloney described it as "a human error," which allowed him and other board members to continue holding their positions to this day, as none of them have stepped back.
For the past years, OHI has been able to receive government funding through Sport Ireland, governmental funds from Northern Ireland as OHI is responsible for it even so is part of the UK, and support from the European and International Handball Federations, thanks to the five clubs registered in the senior league, which have kept the sport alive in the country.
Even so, the dissatisfaction within the community has persisted for years, not just since recent illegalities came to light, individuals in various roles within the sport have discussed their complaints among themselves but avoid voicing them openly. An example is when they observed that elections were not taking place at AGMs, likely to avoid controversy or due to fear of negative labelling or exclusion from opportunities within OHI, given the lack of standard recruitment processes.
With the presidency continuing into its 16th year and other board members serving for over 10 years, the board operates on its own terms, disregarding its responsibilities as a governing body. Moreover, they brought in a new board member without informing the clubs, raising concerns as open positions remain unknown to the handball community. Ultimately, there should be a reason why it operates as an association, shouldn’t there?
If this silence continues from clubs and sport organizations, what positive changes can we realistically anticipate? Should we learn from past mistakes to avoid making them again, or will clubs keep hoping that the current board, Sport Ireland, and other international organizations will eventually understand and follow their ethical guidelines?
The failure to conduct elections legally, as mandated by the OHI constitution and government regulations, has not been addressed, even though these issues were publicly announced over two months ago. Sport Ireland was informed, but has taken no remedial action. Instead, they continue to engage with OHI, as confirmed by the still-active Secretary Moloney in an email dated May 31st. The same passive engagement is seen with the European and International Handball Federation, raising questions about whether these interactions aim to restore legality or protect long-standing board members.
Despite not being elected as president for the past seven years, Fintan Lyons appeared at the June 20th medal ceremony to hand out medals and trophies. He even gave a short speech without mentioning his role, smiling confidently and seemingly unaffected by the situation. Was his smile due to his belief that his 16-year leadership could continue for another three years, or because of the protection that he got from sport organizations? Even considering these three-year mandate and other aspects of the constitution could face changes, as mentioned in Moloney's announcement on May 31st. The present board plans for a constitutional review, which is worrying. Reviewing the OHI constitution in this situation appears hypocritical, as those leading the board have maintained their positions illegally and have no right to review it. This action will not help rebuild the trust that has been lost for a long time, rather, it will further erode confidence and deepen the sense of disillusionment within the community.
We are left wondering: Is anyone listening and acknowledging the impact of the current OHI board on the sport and the community? Where is Sport Ireland? Shouldn't members of the IHF and EHF set a better example? Is Irish Handball News the one to be blamed for exposing the truth?
The silence of club members regarding these issues continues to be confusing. Why are they not clearly asking for re-elections? How informed are their club members about the current situation and their potential role in ensuring their voices are heard? Isn't it crucial that everyone understands the importance of their participation and support in shaping the future of the clubs and the sport? Lots of questions, but no answers yet.
Over the years, many club members have been unaware of the happenings within Olympic Handball Ireland, primarily because their clubs have failed to educate them.
The clubs should educate each member once they join, even if some come only for social reasons. It's important for everyone to understand what is happening in Olympic Handball, the opportunities available, decisions made by the club and OHI, and the responsibilities required to run the club. Educating each new member gives the club and OHI the chance to engage interested individuals who might have the necessary skills or the curiosity to learn and get involved in the sport's management.
Handball in Ireland is not just a social gathering, a way to pass the time, or about parties, gossip, and social media posts to impress friends. It is a community of people who have a passion for handball, invest in it financially or through their time to improve their skills, and work diligently to develop it. I have had the privilege of talking with key figures involved since the 2000s and have witnessed many passionate individuals actively contributing since I became involved in handball. They have seen the potential for growth, but the question remains: Who among those holding positions in the clubs and OHI truly wants it?
You are part of a sport in Ireland that is still developing after almost 50 years, with no development seen so far, yet it holds a vote in the EHF and IHF as strong as those of powerhouses like Spain, France, Germany, or Norway. You have the opportunity to help the sport grow, be part of its development, and have fun along the way. Achieving things is enjoyable, not only for yourself but also for others, and most importantly, for an entire nation and children who can find joy in practising the sport of handball, just as you do. Furthermore, proper development can pave the way for careers within the sport, as has happened in other federations, through step-by-step collaboration as a true community.
However, achieving this requires legal stability, a community that is well-educated, people who are not afraid to speak up, who prioritize the community over personal interests, and who can serve as role models on the Olympic Handball Ireland board and in the clubs. The organization should not be built through a lack of transparency, friendships and connections to take positions, but through talent, passion, fair recruitment, inclusivity, and a desire to learn.
We need leaders who are dedicated to the sport's integrity and growth, ensuring decisions are made for the benefit of all members, that everyone can be listened to, and that actions are taken towards better outcomes. These leaders must be capable of addressing the serious challenges that Olympic Handball in Ireland has faced for years. They should have the ability to include all clubs, fostering unity and collaboration without any preconceived biases formed over the years. Such inclusive leadership is essential for restoring trust, encouraging participation, and driving the sport towards a sustainable future.
Each one of you plays a crucial role in the development of this sport and in ensuring legal compliance. This can only be achieved through cooperation, education, and making your voices heard by speaking up—not just to your friends or to me. Irish Handball News supports transparency and presents the reality without influence from anyone, enabling the truth to be known. However, the necessary actions must be taken by the clubs and sport organizations.
Without direct involvement and adequate education of all members, how can progress be made?
The clubs can make sure Irish handball follows the rules because without them, there would be no Olympic Handball Ireland Association. The big question is: Do they really want things to change, or are they okay with how things are under the current board?
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