Scouting Ireland Chief Scout

The Chief Scout is the most senior appointment of Scouting Ireland. As Chairperson of the National Council and National Management Committee the Chief Scout is responsible for co-ordinating the activities of the Association with the help of the National Team for Policy Implementation and Co-ordination.

The first Chief Scout elected was Martin Burbridge, a former member of Scouting Ireland (CSI). His term was scheduled to end in 2010 but he stepped down in September 2008.

The Chief, like all members of the National Management Committee is elected by secret ballot at the annual National Council for a term of three years. The Chief Scout may be re-elected for one further term of three years.

Martin Burbridge is a native of County Kildare and is a qualified accountant. He holds the Wood Badge is a member of the Order of Cú Chulainn. As the first Chief Scout of the association, his term of office has been both ground breaking and controversial. Burbridge had previously been the National Treasurer of Scouting Ireland (CSI) and one of the steering forces behind the formation of Scouting Ireland. Once the wheels had been set in motion in May 2003, Burbridge's appointment was seen by many Scouters as a fait accompli, with neither Peter Dixon nor Donald Harvey (the outgoing Chief Scouts of Scouting Ireland (CSI) and Scouting Ireland S.A.I. respectively) seeking nomination. He became Chief of the Interim National Management Committee, a new leader for a new era in Irish Scouting, and at the first National Council in The Helix in 2004 his position at the helm was confirmed.

Initiatives during his term included the adoption of a new uniform, an entirely new administrative structure and the programme review. Apart from minor teething problems with the uniform, its adoption has been a success. The new Province and County structure and the administrative reshuffle have also been efficient and were welcomed by grassroots members. All other issues, however, have been overshadowed by the debate on the possible implications of the programme review and proposed changes to the age ranges for sections. A new youth programme was adopted at National Council in Ballinasloe in June 2008.

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