Cairde Uí Fhiaich
Friends of the Cardinal Tomás Ó Fiaich Memorial Library & Archive
Trustees Report 2023
1. Background
At a meeting held on 20 November 2013 the concept of a ‘Friends of’ society was outlined and support was sought from those who would be prepared to assist with the setting up and running of such a venture. The aim of the venture was outlined as being exclusively in support of the work of the Cardinal Ó Fiaich Library and Archive. A working group of four was established to draw up a constitution and open a bank account.
Cairde Uí Fhiaich, Friends of the Cardinal Tomás Ó Fiaich Memorial Library & Archive (Cairde) was officially launched in Armagh on 5 September 2014. A large audience of more than one hundred people attended including individuals and bodies that had supported the library and archive’s work over recent years.
2. Charity Registration
Cairde Uí Fhiaich is registered with the Charity Commission of Northern Ireland on the charity register, NIC100535.
3. HMRC Giftaid
Cairde Uí Fhiach is registered with HMRC and has been issued with a tax reference for charitable purposes and for reclaiming Giftaid
Fundraising and Public Benefit
During the year ended 31 March 2023 the Cairde Uí Fhiach accounts showed a balance of £45,048. The charity had made a contribution to the Cardinal Tomás Ó Fiaich Memorial Library & Archive of £17,500 as a contribution to support its work in raising its profile and developing audiences in the post Covid environment. It was agreed that although the accounts remain healthy that a cautious approach should be maintained in in year ahead. A further £98.00 was paid in bank charges.
4. Plans for 2023-24
At the Annual General Meeting held on 12 September 2023 the outgoing committee were returned un-opposed and unanimously. It was agreed that greater support would be required in the year ahead to support the work of the Library & Archive which had recently lost is funding from
government. A renewed emphasis would be required to raise additional funds in support of the charity for this purpose.
Mr Turlough Trainor was reappointed as the independent examiner for the accounts for the coming year.
Roddy Hegarty, Secretary, 13 September 2023.