The 59th Annual General Meeting will be held in the Lagan Valley Leisure Plex, Lisburn Leisure Park, Governor Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim, on Saturday 7th March 2009 @ 2.00 p.m. sharp.
Agenda:
1 Minutes of the 2008 A.G.M. 2 Secretary’s report. 3 Convoyers Race Reports 2008. 4 Passing of accounts. 5 Election of Officers. 6 Notices of motion.
Submitted by Wray & McFadden membership number 1158.
6.1 20 bird limit will apply in all national races.
Submitted by committee New race rule.
6.2 A code of conduct for convoyers and official liberators.
2 Before commencing his convoying duty he shall obtain from the INFC secretary:
A The exact racepoint at his charges are to be liberated, that is to say the name and address of the racepoint.
B The name and telephone number of any race advisor appointed by the INFC.
C Any special conditions which have to be observed at the racepoint.
D An animal transport certificate for all journeys.
3 He will ensure that all stowage of pigeons confirms to the requirements of the law. That is to say that all containers will be properly secured within racking of the transporter.
4 He will inspect their charges at each stop, but will not be less than once every eight hours.
5 He will ensure that adequate food and water is available for the race, or alternatively has instructions as to how and where they are to be obtained. He will be solely responsible for the welfare of the pigeons in their charge and will ensure that they are adequately fed and watered as deemed appropriate for their well being.
6 He will position the vehicle in order to ensure a perfect liberation, bearing in mind the wind conditions. The convoyer/liberator is fully responsible for checking that all crates remaining in the transporter at the racepoint and on return to its depot are individually inspected in order to ensure that no live pigeons have been left therein.
7 He will obtain weather forecasts and in conjunction with the race advisors, will agree liberation time.
8 The convoyer/liberator will be entirely responsible for liberation, whether he has a race advisor or not.
9 In the event of pigeons escaping he must contact the INFC secretary regarding emergency action to be taken.
10 The correct time of the liberation should be known to the INFC secretary and race advisors. A full report on the race and liberation should be handed to the secretary on return along with a certificate indicating that all crates have been inspected after liberation.
11 The racepoint should be left clean and tidy and all loose materials disposed of.
12 He will conduct himself at all times as to avoid any complaint.
13 Only with the full permission of the INFC secretary will pigeons be liberated at any point other than that which they are scheduled to be liberated.
14 He will report the the secretary whilst at the racepoint and subsequently in his report any item which places at risk, either the safety of the vehicle, the welfare of the pigeons or the fairness of the release.
15 He will comply with the liberation site conditions and regulations.
16 For overseas races he will ensure that he is in possession of the full documentation necessary which will be provided to the INFC secretary.
17 Juniors or others (excluding drivers) are not permitted to travel on transporters.
Submitted by J Beck membership number 360.
6.3 That in all INFC races there are three race advisors, one from the south and two from the north to work with the convoyer in keeping him informed of weather conditions on line of flight. The convoyer to have an input in the decision to liberate. Submitted by the committee.
6.4 Inland old and young bird nationals have open and section pools and prize money.
Submitted by the committee.
6.5 Members may time their birds electronically by union approved systems. ( see enclosed rules for adoption)
Submitted by the committee.
6.6 Members may use timing clocks which have been modified by the manufacturer and have union approval for use without thimbles. (see enclosed rules for adoption)
Submitted by the committee
6.7 Race marking and liberation dates can be changed on advice or race advisors to avoid periods of unfavourable weather.
Accounts, 2008 - Queries in respect of those Accounts should be in the secretary’s hands, in writing, at least three days before the AGM. Only queries in writing will be considered at the AGM.
AGM - Lisburn on Saturday 7th March
-
willie reynolds
- Posts: 6810
- Joined: Sun Nov 09, 2008 4:44 pm
-
willie reynolds
- Posts: 6810
- Joined: Sun Nov 09, 2008 4:44 pm
Re: AGM - Lisburn on Saturday 7th March
The 59th Annual General Meeting was held in the Lagan Valley Leisure Plex, Lisburn Leisure Park, Governor Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim, on Saturday 7th March 2009, a very good attendance was present and the start was slightly delayed due to the room not being open. We were soon underway and Chairman Syd Collins took a number of apologies and then asked the members to stand and observe a moments silence in respect of those members deceased in the previous year. The Secretary Trevor Topping was invited to read the minutes of the previous AGM which were passed, the Convoyer’s Race Reports for 2008 were on the table and available for the members. A request was made that they read the report concerning the Kings Cup race. Following a bit of discussion covering this race, the weather problems, transporter, air conditioning, and race crates the meeting moved on. The Secretary then read his report for the season.
Secretary's Report
The 2008 season membership was 2,014 with 613 members in the south and 1,401 in the north. Members who left totaled 266 this is 12.5%. New members joining were 141.
I wish to thank the following sponsors for the 2008 season Bamfords Top Flight, Samuel McCausland Ltd, Bucktons Premium Pigeon Feeds, Versele-Laga, Natural Granen, Harkers Hormoform, and Veterinary Service for Birds, Gem Supplements Ltd and Sawyers Estate Agents. Each race had sponsors prizes which were greatly appreciated by the members and thanks to those members who obtained the sponsorship. Also the BHW with a discount on publishing rates for race results.
Electronic Timing Systems were presented as free nominations by the following companies Tauris, Unikon 2 systems, Bricon and Tipes. Again this generous gesture is appreciated by the members of the INFC.
The 2008 season will go down in history as possibly the worst in living memory. Holdover after holdover members not competing due to poor weather forecasts resulting in low birdage. Concerns have been raised by members on the wisdom of race marking when the prospects for racing for several days were nil. The committee have received written complaints and myself numerous phone calls raising concerns. The biggest disappointment and controversy of the year was the return of the Kings Cup pigeons made all the more disappointing by the fact the 2007 was also cancelled. The facts were the pigeons welfare came first and the convoyer had the wisdom due to his experience of many years on Sunday to advise the pigeons be returned home after considering all health and safety issues and incoming weather. I hope I never have to attend a meeting of the committee like that held on Sunday 6th July which was unacceptable and a disgrace to get permission to bring the pigeons home.
The convoyer's policy is pigeons welfare first which is correct and I endorse it, and if the club members or any committee members want it any different please let me know and I will step down as I would not be a party to such decisions. It is long overdue that race management for all races is put in place and whilst it is not going to be 100% accurate every time it will help convoyer’s, secretaries, members and the pigeons. A replacement for the King's Cup was arranged but the weather was not in our favour once again.The last few weeks have been spent putting in place arrangements for this years Kings Cup with the help of the site agent in France, and I hope it all falls into place.
Congratulations to all national winners and prize winners during 2008 season. It was good to see Donnelly Bros, Newry City receive nationwide recognition for their performance from Quimper. It was a big lift to the club to have Gloria Hunniford and Steven Way present the trophies at the annual dinner which included John Patterson receiving the new Charles Hunniford Memorial Trophy. The prize distribution will be remembered for years to come for the presence of Gloria and Stephen and the time they spent with those present.
I wish to thank the committees of the East Down Combine and Ulster Federation for assistance with the transport during the 2008 season. Also thanks to the INFC Charity committee and fanciers who donated pigeons and purchasers at the Kings Hall Show for the INFC transport fund.
On behalf of the members I wish to thank all of those committee members and members who helped at the race markings, clock settings, and checking's, also the race controllers, convoyers and drivers.
This season ETS may be introduced, if so it has to work smoothly and the members using will have to give the club, every assistance.
I wish to thank the officials, the committee members, press officer and any members who helped me during the past difficult season.
The 2009 season is fast approaching and I appeal for help at the marking centre if only for a few hours and hope we have a successful season.
No questions had been asked prior to the meeting on the Annual Accounts and former Secretary Allan McDonald from Portadown gave the yearly report before they were adopted.
Auditors Report
The financial aim of the club each year is too break even. The club set membership fees, race entry fees and provide guarantied prize money. However, the number of members can change and the number of birds entered can go up or down and this will affect our income.
In addition the extra costs due to holdovers and in the case of the King's cup a cancelled race can severely affect our expenses.
Last year we had a surplus of £8000 and this year we had a small loss of £358 which of course is close to break even and in that sense we achieved our financial objective.
Now what is the difference between the two seasons.
1. A big influence on costs was the 5 x Holdovers. 2 days in the Skibbereen Old Bird, 1 day in Yearling, 1 day in Friendship, 2 days in YB Sennen Cove and of course the cancelled Kings Cup with 8 days expenses incurred.
2. Membership also dropped by 120 and therefore £1,800 less income. In my opinion membership is the single most important factor as it has dropped from 2,700 in the year 2000 to 2,000 this year. Every effort should be made to attract new members.
3. Birdage was down from 16,387 to 15,051. However 838 of this were in the Friendship National due to changing from Portsmouth to Quimper.
4. The single biggest was the Friendship National where the difference between 2007 and 2008 was over £4000 from the surplus of £816, to a loss of £3,223. Part of this was of course was £2,886 due to an entry fee of £6 per bird which may have been set at £4 if the race had been originally proposed to be from Portsmouth. It is clear that with an entry of 605 we cannot afford to send a transporter to France and the committee has agreed that we will convoy with another organisation this year...
5. Now I will take a quick look at each race.
Skibbereen Old Bird Loss of £1,139. I would say this was due to the poor forecast before the race and this led to a reduced entry of 2,413 birds down from 3,600 the previous year and we had a 2 day holdover.
Yearling National
A brilliant entry of 4,173 compared with 3,298 in 2007. This again is our best supported race and with a surplus of £4,913 it was necessary to cover the deficits in the other races.
Kings Cup
Again the race cancelled. The expenses were higher than 2007 and a loss of £1,454. I am sure we all do not want any more cancelled races and In my opinion this should not happen again. The very poor weather this last 2 years was something we did not expect and the future plans will be set in place to have weather forecasts before race marking and surely within a possible 7 to 10 days we can get a race.
Friendship National - I have already covered.
Sennen Cove Young Bird and Old Hens.
This very difficult race is reflected in only 351 members sending although there was a bigger entry of 1,856 compared with 1,399 in 2007. The loss at £3,659 is very high and may need to be looked at. It is however reduced by £719 of a surplus on the Old Hens. If all costs were spread over the birds in both races it would reduce the loss in the young birds to about £2,800 and a loss of £100 in the old hens. If the committee feels this change is required I do not see any problem in doing this way.
Skibbereen YB
A small surplus of £823 due to reduced costs on transporters, although a smaller entry of 3,489 compared with 4,011 in 2007.
General Revenue Account
Surplus of £2,655 compared with £4,926 in 2007. Membership down 120. Expenses increased 5%. The Building Society interest of £1,942 is excellent and reflects on the hard work of the Treasurer. Unfortunately the rates as we all know are greatly reduced and there will be a big reduction this year.
Balance Sheet.
We still in a strong financial position and have £58,000 in the Bank and Building Society. £16,000 of this is set aside for a trailer if this is to proceed.
I thank the Secretary and Treasurer for all their hard work on behalf of the club and wish you all good racing this year and of course a Kings Cup race, with plenty of birds home.
All officers were then declared vacant and Ken McConaghie was invited to conduct the election, it was a case of same again for all the top places to serve their final term having been first elected in 2007 to serve 3 years. The posts of President, Sen Vice President and Jun Vice President rotate.
Office Bearers 2009
Patron – Mr Ronnie Johnston, President – Mr K en McConaghie (IHU), Senior Vice President Mr Syd Collins (RPRA), Junior Vice President – Mr Eugene Fitzgerald (IHU), Life Vice-Presidents – Mr L Boyle, Mr J Doheny, Mr J Hughes, Mr R Johnston, Mr S Thompson. Chairman – Mr S Collins.
Secretary Mr Trevor Topping, 74 Causeway End Road, Lisburn, BT28 2ED. Tel/Fax: (028) 9294 1265. ROI (048) 9264 1265. Treasurer – Mr Davy Mawhinney, Press Officer – Mr Willie Reynolds, Auditor – Mr Allan McDonald.
INFC Management Committee 2009:
RPRA Representatives - P Smith (Ind RPRA), W Knowles (Kingsmoss), A Darragh (Cullybackey), D Black (Dromara), P Gault (Kingsmoss), R Duddy (Ballyclare), C O’Hare (Ballyholland), D Suitters (Doagh), W Reynolds (Ballymena), C Lyons (Hills & Maze), M Wray (Harryville), L Woodside (Ballyclare), G Shaw (Colin), G McDowell (Kells & Dist) and R Stevenson (Dromara). Reserve G Delaney (Dromore). INFC Appeals Committee: S Cairns (Gilford), J Burrows (Eastway) and R McCracken (Banbridge).
IHU Representatives – L McCavery (Annalong), S Rea (Dundonald), G Gaw (East End), T Marshall (Newtownbreda), A McFarland (East End), B Marshall (Newtownbreda), M Mullan (Alexandra), W Sawyers (Ind IHU), M Irvine (Tyrella), J Erwin (Fortfield), H Muckle (Millisle), S Duffy (Donaghadee), C Browne (Bangor), R Taylor (Shankill), R Trimble (Ballynahinch HPS). IHU Appeals Committee: J McCavanagh (Balbriggan), N Grant (Balbriggan) and J Albert (Ballylesson).
Race Advisors: W Hore (Wexford), D Black (Dromara) and T Marshall (Newtownbreda).
Item 6 Notices of Motion.
Submitted by Wray & McFadden, Membership Number 1158.
6.1 A 20 bird limit will apply in all national races. For 46 votes, against 26.
Submitted by committee, New Race Rule.
6.2 (1) A code of conduct for convoyer’s and official liberators.
(2) Before commencing his convoying duty he shall obtain from the INFC secretary:
A The exact race point at his charges are to be liberated, that is to say the name and address of the race point.
B The name and telephone number of any race advisor appointed by the INFC.
C Any special conditions which have to be observed at the racepoint.
D An animal transport certificate for all journeys.
3 He will ensure that all stowage of pigeons confirms to the requirements of the law. That is to say that all containers will be properly secured within racking of the transporter.
4 He will inspect their charges at each stop, but will not be less than once every eight hours.
5 He will ensure that adequate food and water is available for the race, or alternatively has instructions as to how and where they are to be obtained. He will be solely responsible for the welfare of the pigeons in their charge and will ensure that they are adequately fed and watered as deemed appropriate for their well being.
6 He will position the vehicle in order to ensure a perfect liberation, bearing in mind the wind conditions. The convoyer/liberator is fully responsible for checking that all crates remaining in the transporter at the racepoint and on return to its depot are individually inspected in order to ensure that no live pigeons have been left therein.
7 He will obtain weather forecasts and in conjunction with the race advisors, will agree liberation time.
8 The convoyer/liberator will be entirely responsible for liberation, whether he has a race advisor or not.
9 In the event of pigeons escaping he must contact the INFC secretary regarding emergency action to be taken.
10 The correct time of the liberation should be known to the INFC secretary and race advisors. A full report on the race and liberation should be handed to the secretary on return along with a certificate indicating that all crates have been inspected after liberation.
11 The race point should be left clean and tidy and all loose materials disposed of.
12 He will conduct himself at all times as to avoid any complaint.
13 Only with the full permission of the INFC secretary will pigeons be liberated at any point other than that which they are scheduled to be liberated.
14 He will report the the secretary whilst at the race point and subsequently in his report any item which places at risk, either the safety of the vehicle, the welfare of the pigeons or the fairness of the release.
15 He will comply with the liberation site conditions and regulations.
16 For overseas races he will ensure that he is in possession of the full documentation necessary which will be provided to the INFC secretary.
17 Juniors or others (excluding drivers) are not permitted to travel on transporters.
This passed unanimously.
Submitted by J Beck, Membership Number 360.
6.3 That in all INFC races there are three race advisors, one from the south and two from the north to work with the convoyer in keeping him informed of weather conditions on line of flight. The convoyer to have an input in the decision to liberate. For 74 votes, against 3.
Submitted by the Committee.
6.4 Inland old and young bird nationals have open and section pools and prize money. For 55 votes, against 7.
Submitted by the Committee.
6.5 Members may time their birds electronically by union approved systems. (see the enclosed rules for adoption). This passed unanimously.
Submitted by the Committee.
6.6 Members may use timing clocks which have been modified by the manufacturer and have union approval for use without thimbles. (see the enclosed rules for adoption). For 66 votes, against 4.
Submitted by the Committee
6.7 Race marking and liberation dates can be changed on advice or race advisors to avoid periods of unfavourable weather. For 71 votes, against 1.
Rule changes to facilitate members using ETS and thimble less clocks.
Racing Rule 2
All birds must carry at least one intact recognised union ring. All members must fill in all particulars required on a race sheer or entry form before marking and complete a verification envelope. The outside number of the race ring must be entered on same by officials of club. All duplicates must be carefully sealed in race envelopes immediately after marking.
Birds marked by ETS race entry report to be printed and all copies signed by marking officials and competitor or his authorised agent. The race entry report to contain members name, loft number, race, date, clock serial number, authorisation code and race entries. Copies of the race entry report retained by the club and competitor.
Racing Rule 5
No member shall be allowed to mark or race ring his/her own bird. Or assist in the ETS marking procedure of his/her own pigeons or any other competitors pigeons he presents for marking.
New Racing Rule
No electronic rings will be allowed at race marking.
Clock Rules 1
All members must time in their birds by means of a timing clock which has approval per current union list, or union approved Electronic Timing System (ETS) Members are not permitted to use two methods of recording arrivals in any one race.
Clock Rule 3
Should a clock have varied more than at the rate of 5 seconds per hour, a fast clock shall be regarded as correct, a slow clock shall have double the lost time added. Should a member's clock stop after timing in through not being properly set or wound up the competitor shall have his pool monies returned in full. Any ETS clock which carries more than 3 seconds in any race to be returned to manufacturer for investigation and report given for consideration before pigeon's race arrival times are included in race result.
Clock Rule 6
No member of the clock committee or clock setter shall be allowed to set or check his own clock or assist in obtaining a progress report or strike off under ETS.
Clock Rule 9
If a second bird arrives while a member is away with his clock it may be timed into the nearest available clock which which then becomes a station clock as per union rule. ETS loft base units may continue to record arrivals.
Clock Rule 10
The Irish National Flying Club shall not be held liable to any clock owner for damage or loss that may occur whilst the clocks is in their custody, Or failure of any ETS system to race mark, record bird arrival times or produce progress report or strike off. The committee reserve the right to race mark pigeons by rubber race rings.
Clock Rule 11
Where a member has more than one clock set he/she must clearly label them one (1) clock etc, before they will be accepted for setting. If the number one nominated clock is in transit to or from the clock station for or after checking, the clock nominated 2 may be used to time arrivals.
Clock Rule 12
Delete present rule Were required containers must be used in clocks no limit on rings contained. Where open containers are used these must be inserted open end down and failure to comply with this condition will entail disqualification. Rubber race rings can be directly inserted into all conventional timing clocks, no limit per chamber, provide they have been modified by manufacturer and such modifications must have union approval.
Clock Rule 17
Delete present rule, One rubber per thimble and one thimble per chamber.
New Clock Rule
The club officials, committee or their appointed agents may inspect ETS antenna pads at members lofts to establish that they are within the confines of the loft at any time, and may require a member to provide a copies of the electronic rings allocation list on request from the club or officials who carried out the allocation of the rings. Members must produce a certificate of worthiness if requested. Any ETS equipment showing visible damage to the casing or seal will be refused for marking or checking. Failure to comply will result in disqualification.
New Clock Rule
Marking officials and clock centre managers to obtain time signal for ETS equipment before starting to race mark, obtaining progress report or strike off.
All electronic timers set with ETS radio clock shall be deemed correct.
New Clock Rule
All ETS clocks presented at race marking must be cleared of previously flown races.
ETS chip ring must correspond to the life ring of the pigeon.
New Rule
The committee reserve the right to implement any race rules deemed necessary for ETS.
Ken McConaghie gave the INFC Charity Show report, another record attendance at the Kings Hall last December. He thanked everyone who assisted, the group he said was getting smaller and any additional help would be appreciated. It had been agreed earlier that the monies raised this year would be donated to the INFC Transporter Fund, Patron Ronnie Johnston who has been involved with the annual show from the start and the Hon Auctioneer presented a cheque for £10,000. Fancier who donated birds and those who made a purchase were thanked, the quality of birds every year is of the highest standard.
Discussions are going on to get back to Penzance and a decision on that is imminent, arrangements are being put in place to have the Friendship Nat birds transported to Picauville. This will be confirmed later, there was also a big discussion on the progress of purchasing a new transporter, a proposal from the floor was turned down as all implications need firstly to be addressed by the committee before going to the membership. A question was raised about members having some input to the race programme, this and other items of concern can be put forward for discussion and will if in order be put to the membership.
The next committee meeting will be held in the Lisburn & District HPS on Wednesday 18th March at 7.30pm. A full report will follow this.
Secretary's Report
The 2008 season membership was 2,014 with 613 members in the south and 1,401 in the north. Members who left totaled 266 this is 12.5%. New members joining were 141.
I wish to thank the following sponsors for the 2008 season Bamfords Top Flight, Samuel McCausland Ltd, Bucktons Premium Pigeon Feeds, Versele-Laga, Natural Granen, Harkers Hormoform, and Veterinary Service for Birds, Gem Supplements Ltd and Sawyers Estate Agents. Each race had sponsors prizes which were greatly appreciated by the members and thanks to those members who obtained the sponsorship. Also the BHW with a discount on publishing rates for race results.
Electronic Timing Systems were presented as free nominations by the following companies Tauris, Unikon 2 systems, Bricon and Tipes. Again this generous gesture is appreciated by the members of the INFC.
The 2008 season will go down in history as possibly the worst in living memory. Holdover after holdover members not competing due to poor weather forecasts resulting in low birdage. Concerns have been raised by members on the wisdom of race marking when the prospects for racing for several days were nil. The committee have received written complaints and myself numerous phone calls raising concerns. The biggest disappointment and controversy of the year was the return of the Kings Cup pigeons made all the more disappointing by the fact the 2007 was also cancelled. The facts were the pigeons welfare came first and the convoyer had the wisdom due to his experience of many years on Sunday to advise the pigeons be returned home after considering all health and safety issues and incoming weather. I hope I never have to attend a meeting of the committee like that held on Sunday 6th July which was unacceptable and a disgrace to get permission to bring the pigeons home.
The convoyer's policy is pigeons welfare first which is correct and I endorse it, and if the club members or any committee members want it any different please let me know and I will step down as I would not be a party to such decisions. It is long overdue that race management for all races is put in place and whilst it is not going to be 100% accurate every time it will help convoyer’s, secretaries, members and the pigeons. A replacement for the King's Cup was arranged but the weather was not in our favour once again.The last few weeks have been spent putting in place arrangements for this years Kings Cup with the help of the site agent in France, and I hope it all falls into place.
Congratulations to all national winners and prize winners during 2008 season. It was good to see Donnelly Bros, Newry City receive nationwide recognition for their performance from Quimper. It was a big lift to the club to have Gloria Hunniford and Steven Way present the trophies at the annual dinner which included John Patterson receiving the new Charles Hunniford Memorial Trophy. The prize distribution will be remembered for years to come for the presence of Gloria and Stephen and the time they spent with those present.
I wish to thank the committees of the East Down Combine and Ulster Federation for assistance with the transport during the 2008 season. Also thanks to the INFC Charity committee and fanciers who donated pigeons and purchasers at the Kings Hall Show for the INFC transport fund.
On behalf of the members I wish to thank all of those committee members and members who helped at the race markings, clock settings, and checking's, also the race controllers, convoyers and drivers.
This season ETS may be introduced, if so it has to work smoothly and the members using will have to give the club, every assistance.
I wish to thank the officials, the committee members, press officer and any members who helped me during the past difficult season.
The 2009 season is fast approaching and I appeal for help at the marking centre if only for a few hours and hope we have a successful season.
No questions had been asked prior to the meeting on the Annual Accounts and former Secretary Allan McDonald from Portadown gave the yearly report before they were adopted.
Auditors Report
The financial aim of the club each year is too break even. The club set membership fees, race entry fees and provide guarantied prize money. However, the number of members can change and the number of birds entered can go up or down and this will affect our income.
In addition the extra costs due to holdovers and in the case of the King's cup a cancelled race can severely affect our expenses.
Last year we had a surplus of £8000 and this year we had a small loss of £358 which of course is close to break even and in that sense we achieved our financial objective.
Now what is the difference between the two seasons.
1. A big influence on costs was the 5 x Holdovers. 2 days in the Skibbereen Old Bird, 1 day in Yearling, 1 day in Friendship, 2 days in YB Sennen Cove and of course the cancelled Kings Cup with 8 days expenses incurred.
2. Membership also dropped by 120 and therefore £1,800 less income. In my opinion membership is the single most important factor as it has dropped from 2,700 in the year 2000 to 2,000 this year. Every effort should be made to attract new members.
3. Birdage was down from 16,387 to 15,051. However 838 of this were in the Friendship National due to changing from Portsmouth to Quimper.
4. The single biggest was the Friendship National where the difference between 2007 and 2008 was over £4000 from the surplus of £816, to a loss of £3,223. Part of this was of course was £2,886 due to an entry fee of £6 per bird which may have been set at £4 if the race had been originally proposed to be from Portsmouth. It is clear that with an entry of 605 we cannot afford to send a transporter to France and the committee has agreed that we will convoy with another organisation this year...
5. Now I will take a quick look at each race.
Skibbereen Old Bird Loss of £1,139. I would say this was due to the poor forecast before the race and this led to a reduced entry of 2,413 birds down from 3,600 the previous year and we had a 2 day holdover.
Yearling National
A brilliant entry of 4,173 compared with 3,298 in 2007. This again is our best supported race and with a surplus of £4,913 it was necessary to cover the deficits in the other races.
Kings Cup
Again the race cancelled. The expenses were higher than 2007 and a loss of £1,454. I am sure we all do not want any more cancelled races and In my opinion this should not happen again. The very poor weather this last 2 years was something we did not expect and the future plans will be set in place to have weather forecasts before race marking and surely within a possible 7 to 10 days we can get a race.
Friendship National - I have already covered.
Sennen Cove Young Bird and Old Hens.
This very difficult race is reflected in only 351 members sending although there was a bigger entry of 1,856 compared with 1,399 in 2007. The loss at £3,659 is very high and may need to be looked at. It is however reduced by £719 of a surplus on the Old Hens. If all costs were spread over the birds in both races it would reduce the loss in the young birds to about £2,800 and a loss of £100 in the old hens. If the committee feels this change is required I do not see any problem in doing this way.
Skibbereen YB
A small surplus of £823 due to reduced costs on transporters, although a smaller entry of 3,489 compared with 4,011 in 2007.
General Revenue Account
Surplus of £2,655 compared with £4,926 in 2007. Membership down 120. Expenses increased 5%. The Building Society interest of £1,942 is excellent and reflects on the hard work of the Treasurer. Unfortunately the rates as we all know are greatly reduced and there will be a big reduction this year.
Balance Sheet.
We still in a strong financial position and have £58,000 in the Bank and Building Society. £16,000 of this is set aside for a trailer if this is to proceed.
I thank the Secretary and Treasurer for all their hard work on behalf of the club and wish you all good racing this year and of course a Kings Cup race, with plenty of birds home.
All officers were then declared vacant and Ken McConaghie was invited to conduct the election, it was a case of same again for all the top places to serve their final term having been first elected in 2007 to serve 3 years. The posts of President, Sen Vice President and Jun Vice President rotate.
Office Bearers 2009
Patron – Mr Ronnie Johnston, President – Mr K en McConaghie (IHU), Senior Vice President Mr Syd Collins (RPRA), Junior Vice President – Mr Eugene Fitzgerald (IHU), Life Vice-Presidents – Mr L Boyle, Mr J Doheny, Mr J Hughes, Mr R Johnston, Mr S Thompson. Chairman – Mr S Collins.
Secretary Mr Trevor Topping, 74 Causeway End Road, Lisburn, BT28 2ED. Tel/Fax: (028) 9294 1265. ROI (048) 9264 1265. Treasurer – Mr Davy Mawhinney, Press Officer – Mr Willie Reynolds, Auditor – Mr Allan McDonald.
INFC Management Committee 2009:
RPRA Representatives - P Smith (Ind RPRA), W Knowles (Kingsmoss), A Darragh (Cullybackey), D Black (Dromara), P Gault (Kingsmoss), R Duddy (Ballyclare), C O’Hare (Ballyholland), D Suitters (Doagh), W Reynolds (Ballymena), C Lyons (Hills & Maze), M Wray (Harryville), L Woodside (Ballyclare), G Shaw (Colin), G McDowell (Kells & Dist) and R Stevenson (Dromara). Reserve G Delaney (Dromore). INFC Appeals Committee: S Cairns (Gilford), J Burrows (Eastway) and R McCracken (Banbridge).
IHU Representatives – L McCavery (Annalong), S Rea (Dundonald), G Gaw (East End), T Marshall (Newtownbreda), A McFarland (East End), B Marshall (Newtownbreda), M Mullan (Alexandra), W Sawyers (Ind IHU), M Irvine (Tyrella), J Erwin (Fortfield), H Muckle (Millisle), S Duffy (Donaghadee), C Browne (Bangor), R Taylor (Shankill), R Trimble (Ballynahinch HPS). IHU Appeals Committee: J McCavanagh (Balbriggan), N Grant (Balbriggan) and J Albert (Ballylesson).
Race Advisors: W Hore (Wexford), D Black (Dromara) and T Marshall (Newtownbreda).
Item 6 Notices of Motion.
Submitted by Wray & McFadden, Membership Number 1158.
6.1 A 20 bird limit will apply in all national races. For 46 votes, against 26.
Submitted by committee, New Race Rule.
6.2 (1) A code of conduct for convoyer’s and official liberators.
(2) Before commencing his convoying duty he shall obtain from the INFC secretary:
A The exact race point at his charges are to be liberated, that is to say the name and address of the race point.
B The name and telephone number of any race advisor appointed by the INFC.
C Any special conditions which have to be observed at the racepoint.
D An animal transport certificate for all journeys.
3 He will ensure that all stowage of pigeons confirms to the requirements of the law. That is to say that all containers will be properly secured within racking of the transporter.
4 He will inspect their charges at each stop, but will not be less than once every eight hours.
5 He will ensure that adequate food and water is available for the race, or alternatively has instructions as to how and where they are to be obtained. He will be solely responsible for the welfare of the pigeons in their charge and will ensure that they are adequately fed and watered as deemed appropriate for their well being.
6 He will position the vehicle in order to ensure a perfect liberation, bearing in mind the wind conditions. The convoyer/liberator is fully responsible for checking that all crates remaining in the transporter at the racepoint and on return to its depot are individually inspected in order to ensure that no live pigeons have been left therein.
7 He will obtain weather forecasts and in conjunction with the race advisors, will agree liberation time.
8 The convoyer/liberator will be entirely responsible for liberation, whether he has a race advisor or not.
9 In the event of pigeons escaping he must contact the INFC secretary regarding emergency action to be taken.
10 The correct time of the liberation should be known to the INFC secretary and race advisors. A full report on the race and liberation should be handed to the secretary on return along with a certificate indicating that all crates have been inspected after liberation.
11 The race point should be left clean and tidy and all loose materials disposed of.
12 He will conduct himself at all times as to avoid any complaint.
13 Only with the full permission of the INFC secretary will pigeons be liberated at any point other than that which they are scheduled to be liberated.
14 He will report the the secretary whilst at the race point and subsequently in his report any item which places at risk, either the safety of the vehicle, the welfare of the pigeons or the fairness of the release.
15 He will comply with the liberation site conditions and regulations.
16 For overseas races he will ensure that he is in possession of the full documentation necessary which will be provided to the INFC secretary.
17 Juniors or others (excluding drivers) are not permitted to travel on transporters.
This passed unanimously.
Submitted by J Beck, Membership Number 360.
6.3 That in all INFC races there are three race advisors, one from the south and two from the north to work with the convoyer in keeping him informed of weather conditions on line of flight. The convoyer to have an input in the decision to liberate. For 74 votes, against 3.
Submitted by the Committee.
6.4 Inland old and young bird nationals have open and section pools and prize money. For 55 votes, against 7.
Submitted by the Committee.
6.5 Members may time their birds electronically by union approved systems. (see the enclosed rules for adoption). This passed unanimously.
Submitted by the Committee.
6.6 Members may use timing clocks which have been modified by the manufacturer and have union approval for use without thimbles. (see the enclosed rules for adoption). For 66 votes, against 4.
Submitted by the Committee
6.7 Race marking and liberation dates can be changed on advice or race advisors to avoid periods of unfavourable weather. For 71 votes, against 1.
Rule changes to facilitate members using ETS and thimble less clocks.
Racing Rule 2
All birds must carry at least one intact recognised union ring. All members must fill in all particulars required on a race sheer or entry form before marking and complete a verification envelope. The outside number of the race ring must be entered on same by officials of club. All duplicates must be carefully sealed in race envelopes immediately after marking.
Birds marked by ETS race entry report to be printed and all copies signed by marking officials and competitor or his authorised agent. The race entry report to contain members name, loft number, race, date, clock serial number, authorisation code and race entries. Copies of the race entry report retained by the club and competitor.
Racing Rule 5
No member shall be allowed to mark or race ring his/her own bird. Or assist in the ETS marking procedure of his/her own pigeons or any other competitors pigeons he presents for marking.
New Racing Rule
No electronic rings will be allowed at race marking.
Clock Rules 1
All members must time in their birds by means of a timing clock which has approval per current union list, or union approved Electronic Timing System (ETS) Members are not permitted to use two methods of recording arrivals in any one race.
Clock Rule 3
Should a clock have varied more than at the rate of 5 seconds per hour, a fast clock shall be regarded as correct, a slow clock shall have double the lost time added. Should a member's clock stop after timing in through not being properly set or wound up the competitor shall have his pool monies returned in full. Any ETS clock which carries more than 3 seconds in any race to be returned to manufacturer for investigation and report given for consideration before pigeon's race arrival times are included in race result.
Clock Rule 6
No member of the clock committee or clock setter shall be allowed to set or check his own clock or assist in obtaining a progress report or strike off under ETS.
Clock Rule 9
If a second bird arrives while a member is away with his clock it may be timed into the nearest available clock which which then becomes a station clock as per union rule. ETS loft base units may continue to record arrivals.
Clock Rule 10
The Irish National Flying Club shall not be held liable to any clock owner for damage or loss that may occur whilst the clocks is in their custody, Or failure of any ETS system to race mark, record bird arrival times or produce progress report or strike off. The committee reserve the right to race mark pigeons by rubber race rings.
Clock Rule 11
Where a member has more than one clock set he/she must clearly label them one (1) clock etc, before they will be accepted for setting. If the number one nominated clock is in transit to or from the clock station for or after checking, the clock nominated 2 may be used to time arrivals.
Clock Rule 12
Delete present rule Were required containers must be used in clocks no limit on rings contained. Where open containers are used these must be inserted open end down and failure to comply with this condition will entail disqualification. Rubber race rings can be directly inserted into all conventional timing clocks, no limit per chamber, provide they have been modified by manufacturer and such modifications must have union approval.
Clock Rule 17
Delete present rule, One rubber per thimble and one thimble per chamber.
New Clock Rule
The club officials, committee or their appointed agents may inspect ETS antenna pads at members lofts to establish that they are within the confines of the loft at any time, and may require a member to provide a copies of the electronic rings allocation list on request from the club or officials who carried out the allocation of the rings. Members must produce a certificate of worthiness if requested. Any ETS equipment showing visible damage to the casing or seal will be refused for marking or checking. Failure to comply will result in disqualification.
New Clock Rule
Marking officials and clock centre managers to obtain time signal for ETS equipment before starting to race mark, obtaining progress report or strike off.
All electronic timers set with ETS radio clock shall be deemed correct.
New Clock Rule
All ETS clocks presented at race marking must be cleared of previously flown races.
ETS chip ring must correspond to the life ring of the pigeon.
New Rule
The committee reserve the right to implement any race rules deemed necessary for ETS.
Ken McConaghie gave the INFC Charity Show report, another record attendance at the Kings Hall last December. He thanked everyone who assisted, the group he said was getting smaller and any additional help would be appreciated. It had been agreed earlier that the monies raised this year would be donated to the INFC Transporter Fund, Patron Ronnie Johnston who has been involved with the annual show from the start and the Hon Auctioneer presented a cheque for £10,000. Fancier who donated birds and those who made a purchase were thanked, the quality of birds every year is of the highest standard.
Discussions are going on to get back to Penzance and a decision on that is imminent, arrangements are being put in place to have the Friendship Nat birds transported to Picauville. This will be confirmed later, there was also a big discussion on the progress of purchasing a new transporter, a proposal from the floor was turned down as all implications need firstly to be addressed by the committee before going to the membership. A question was raised about members having some input to the race programme, this and other items of concern can be put forward for discussion and will if in order be put to the membership.
The next committee meeting will be held in the Lisburn & District HPS on Wednesday 18th March at 7.30pm. A full report will follow this.