Boxing Ireland is honoured to announce the appointment of John Farrelly as Independent Chair of the Board of Directors of Ireland’s most successful Olympic sport.
John is the Chief Executive of the Mental Health Commission and previously served as Ireland’s Charities Regulator. John is recognised as an expert in governance and management and has introduced national governance codes, standards and regulation for both the mental health and charities sectors. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in governance-focused reform and innovation, with an emphasis on collaborative, results-driven culture.
Boxing Ireland is an all-island, volunteer-led organisation, home to over 370 clubs with a membership of 30,000 people from a wide variety of heritages and cultural traditions. The Board of Directors drives corporate governance and strategic leadership, supporting the volunteer-led Central Council in its work administering and overseeing amateur boxing across the island of Ireland.
Incoming Chair, John Farrelly, said “I’m very pleased to have been appointed Chair of the Boxing Ireland Board of Directors and to have the opportunity to contribute to the next chapter of the organisation. Boxing has a unique place in communities across the island of Ireland, with clubs and volunteers playing a vital role in providing opportunities for people of all ages to participate and compete. “
John adds “I look forward to working with Gary, the Board, Central Council and members. There is a strong foundation to build upon, and I hope to bring my experience to bear in supporting Boxing Ireland as it continues to evolve and realise its ambitions. Most importantly, I want to ensure that the organisation remains focused on serving its clubs and members and creating the conditions for Irish boxing to thrive.
CEO Gary Stewart said “John brings extensive governance and leadership experience gained across a range of sectors, and we’re delighted to welcome him as Chair. His understanding of effective governance, strategic oversight and organisational leadership will be vital as Boxing Ireland continues to develop and deliver for our clubs, boxers, coaches, officials and volunteers. “
Gary adds ‘This is an important period for Boxing Ireland as we build on the progress of recent years and focus on long-term sustainability, strong leadership and continued development across the organisation. I welcome the opportunity to work closely with John, the Board, Central Council and the wider boxing community as we take the organisation forward“
John Farrelly succeeds Niall O’Carroll, who is stepping down following a period of significant organisational and governance change at Boxing Ireland. During his tenure, O’Carroll led the Board through a period of significant change in international boxing governance, including the constitutional process that enabled Boxing Ireland to join World Boxing and secure a pathway to the LA 2028 Olympic Games. He also oversaw the strengthening of Boxing Ireland’s senior leadership and organisational structures, including the appointment of new executive and high-performance leadership.
CEO Gary Stewart said “On behalf of everyone at Boxing Ireland, I want to thank Niall for his contribution and service as Chair. He provided strong leadership during a period of considerable change, helping to guide the organisation through important developments in governance, leadership and our international position. Niall gave significant time and energy to Boxing Ireland and to the development of Irish boxing, and his contribution has been greatly appreciated. We wish him every success in his role with Rowing Ireland and look forward to continuing the progress made during his tenure.”
About Boxing Ireland
Boxing Ireland the is governing body of amateur boxing on the island of Ireland. Formed in 1911 as Irish Athletic Boxing Association and rebranded in 2026 to Boxing Ireland, the NGB is home over 360 clubs and unit throughout the island. We are immensely proud of the role we play for young people across the island, and the impact Boxing Ireland clubs have on their members and local communities. Ours is a long and proud sporting tradition, where clubs spanning generations open their doors daily to new members from all walks of life and newer clubs strive to build their own legacie