Safety & Legal Issues

Public Collections

You need a Garda permit to collect funds on the street or in a public place. While the owners of some private properties, including pubs and shopping centres, may allow collections on site, you should always check with the Gardaí on the need for a permit. Permits may take a few weeks or even months to obtain, so advance planning is necessary.

Raffles and Lotteries

Simple raffles at events usually do not require a license, but raffles involving tickets sold in advance may do so. Check with your local Garda station.

Health and Safety

Plan your event for efficiency and safety. Make sure that all involved are fully aware of all aspects of the event, including any risks, fitness requirements, special equipment or clothing required - and standards of behaviour expected.

Always check if a hired venue has adequate safety procedures in place. Trained first aid personnel may be required particularly for outdoor venues. Outdoor events may also require you to notify local authorities or to obtain special permissions

Supervision

Your event must be adequately supervised. Where children are involved, this includes proper adult supervision at all times in a safe and secure environment, as well as checking that parents have given permission for their child to take part.

Insurance

Consider what insurance coverage you need for your event. Owners of venues with public access should have adequate cover in place, but certain categories of events such as large scale outdoor events or adventure pursuits may demand additional or specified insurance cover. Contact Third Age at fundraising@thirdage.ie for additional information if you need event insurance coverage.

Transparency

A breakdown of costs and income should be available if members of the public request these details.