The Association of Forged In Ireland

Article I: Name

The name of the association shall be "Forged In Ireland".

Article II: Purpose

The purpose of Forged In Ireland is to promote traditional, heritage and historic metal crafts in Ireland. The association aims to:

• Provide training, advice, and educational resources:
  Organize workshops, classes, and seminars led by experienced blacksmiths and metalworkers.
  Develop and distribute instructional materials and guides.
  Offer one-on-one mentoring and advice to members.
• Offer a social network for blacksmiths and metalworkers:
  Maintain platforms for members to connect, share experiences, and collaborate on projects.
  Host regular social events, meetups, and networking opportunities.
  Foster a sense of community and support among members.
  
• Assist with research and public awareness for all traditional metal crafts:
  Conduct and support research projects related to historic and traditional metalworking techniques.
  Publish research findings and articles in newsletters, journals, and online platforms.
  Promote awareness of traditional metal crafts through exhibitions, demonstrations, and public events.
  By employing these methods, Forged In Ireland will create a vibrant and supportive environment for blacksmiths and metalworkers, preserving and advancing the rich heritage of traditional metal crafts in Ireland.

Article III: Membership

Section 1: Eligibility

Membership is open to all individuals interested in traditional, heritage, and historic metal crafts, whether professional, part-time, or amateur. Members are expected to contribute towards the group and represent the association in a respectful and positive manner.

Section 2: Membership Categories

The Board of Directors shall determine the membership categories, fees, and application processes. Membership categories may include, but are not limited to:

• Professional Members
• Part-Time Members
• Amateur Members

Section 3: Rights and Responsibilities

All members have the right to participate in association activities, access educational resources, and attend meetings. Members are expected to:

• Contribute to the association's goals through participation, sharing knowledge, and supporting events.
• Represent the association in a professional and courteous manner.
• Abide by the association's code of conduct and policies.

Section 4: Member Conduct and Expulsion

The Board of Forged In Ireland reserves the right to suspend or expel any member whose actions are deemed harmful to the association or contrary to its values. Grounds for expulsion include, but are not limited to:

• Harassment, discrimination, or abusive behavior.
• Actions that bring the association into disrepute.
• Repeated failure to follow safety guidelines or association policies.
• Neglecting membership obligations, including participation requirements.

A member facing expulsion will be notified and given an opportunity to respond. The Board will conduct a review and may expel a member by majority vote. Expelled members may only reapply at the Board’s discretion.

Article IV: Governance

Section 1: Board of Directors

The association shall be governed by a Board of Directors consisting of a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and up to five other board members.

Section 2: Election and Terms

Board members shall be elected by the membership at the Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Board members shall serve a term of two years and may be re-elected for consecutive terms.

Elections shall be conducted by secret ballot.

Section 3: Expulsion of Board Members

A board member may be expelled for misconduct, neglect of duties, or any action detrimental to the association.

A motion for expulsion must be submitted in writing and supported by at least three board members. The board member in question shall be given the opportunity to address the board before a vote is taken. A two-thirds majority vote of the remaining board members is required for expulsion.

Section 4: Conflict of Interest and Financial Gain

No member of the Board shall personally profit from any activity, contract, or venture undertaken by the association. Board members must disclose any potential conflict of interest and recuse themselves from decisions where such a conflict exists.

All financial transactions and business dealings involving the association must be conducted transparently and in the best interests of the association and its members.

Any breach of this clause may result in disciplinary action, including removal from the Board.

Article V: Meetings

Section 1: Annual General Meeting (AGM)

The AGM shall be held annually at a time and place determined by the Board of Directors.

All members shall be notified of the AGM at least 30 days in advance.

Section 2: Board Meetings

The Board of Directors shall meet at least four times a year.

Special board meetings may be called by the President or by a majority of board members.

A quorum for board meetings shall be a majority of the board members.

Article VI: Committees

The Board of Directors may establish committees as needed to carry out the work of the association. Committee members shall be appointed by the President with the approval of the board.

Article VII: Finances

Section 1: Fiscal Year

The fiscal year of the association shall be from January 1 to December 31.

Section 2: Financial Management

The Treasurer shall be responsible for the financial management of the association.

The Board of Directors shall approve an annual budget.

An annual financial report shall be presented to the membership at the AGM.

Article VIII: Amendments

This constitution may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote of the members present at the AGM. Proposed amendments must be submitted in writing to the Secretary at least 30 days before the AGM.

Article IX: Dissolution

In the event of dissolution, the assets of the association shall be distributed to a nonprofit organization with similar objectives, as determined by the Board of Directors.