Fencing Ireland Policies

Like all governing bodies, Fencing Ireland has rules and regulations which it and its members must follow. All fencers should take the time to read and familiarise themselves with the information below, as well as checking the related links on this page.

Competitions and discipline

Competitions are primarily governed by FIE rules. Where there is no specific alternative Fencing Ireland policy or rule FIE rules apply. The FIE rules were adopted in June 1914 by the international congress of National Olympic Committees for use in all events at the Olympic Games. They were first codified in 1914 by the Marquis de Chasseloup-Laubat and M. Paul Anspach. They have been revised and restructured by various FIE Congresses.

Please note that if you intend to compete you must make it your business to be familiar with FIE regulations. Individuals who wish to take part in fencing competitions in Ireland must hold a valid Fencing Ireland licence. Overseas fencers may present a current licence from their home jurisdiction together with a Fencing Ireland 'Associate' membership.

Children in Sport and Child Protection

Children are the lifeblood of any sport as they are the competitors of tomorrow. If it is not enjoyable for them or they have a bad experience of it, they will not continue. Fencing Ireland is a signatory of the Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children in Sport to ensure that participation is an enjoyable and fulfilling experience for all children who are involved. The Children’s Officer is Ulla Kappus and she may be contacted through the Honorary Secretary.

Fencing Ireland: Child Safeguarding Statement (updated August 2023)
Sport Ireland: Code of Ethics & Good Practice for Children’s Sport
Fencing Ireland : Child Safeguarding Policy

Transgender & Non-Binary Inclusion Policy

Transgender & Non-Binary Inclusion Policy - Feb 2025

Anti-Doping

Fencing Ireland supports the work of the Sport Ireland anti-doping unit and the World Anti-Doping Agency and condemns the uses of any substance or method to achieve improved results in competition.

All anti-doping matters and concerns may be directed to our Anti-Doping Officer Cahir Davitt Submit a Query

Sport Ireland - Anti Doping
FIE: Clean Sport
World Anti-Doping Agency: Clean Sport
Sport Ireland - Med Check Click to Check
Global Dro - Click for Information

Background

At our Annual General Meeting held on Sunday March 26th 2000, it was unanimously agreed that the following object be added to the Memorandum of Association of Fencing Ireland.

“(w) to provide by Rules, Regulations and Bye-Laws or otherwise to control doping in the sport of fencing and to take such action, including testing, to combat doping in the sport of fencing.”

Your Responsibility

It is very important for each and every participant, particularly those who intend to compete abroad, to familiarise themselves with the advice of Sports Ireland, World Anti Doping Agency ( WADA) and the FIE.

Please remember that external Doping Control Officers may be present at any fencing competition. While it is not envisaged that there will be any intentional infractions, many ‘over the counter’ and prescription medicines (as well as vitamins, herbal and nutritional supplements) may contain prohibited substances. There has been so much negative publicity about doping in sport that it is no longer possible to plead ignorance, so we strongly advise you to have your doctor check on the status of all drugs.

FIE: List of Prohibited substances
WADA Prohibited List 2024 Click for More Information
WADA Prohibited List 2025 Click for more information
Summary of Major Modifications and Explanatory Notes for the 2025 Prohibited List Click for more information

Anti-Discrimination & Anti-Harassment

Policy Statement
Fencing Ireland has in place practices which are designed to ensure that all staff and members are protected from discrimination and harassment, and that claims of discrimination and harassment are dealt with speedily and constructively.