The feis-fixing scandal that rocked Irish dancing

In July 2022 a very public scandal erupted in the normally relatively closed world of Irish dancing. An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha (CLRG), the oldest and largest governing body for competitive Irish dancing, was informed of allegations that at least 12 Irish dancing teachers in Ireland and overseas were involved in the “fixing” of competitions.

And that was the tip of a very grubby iceberg as further allegations emerged – including stories of “unwanted behaviours”, tales of sexual impropriety among the adults and a lack of trust among dancers, parents and teachers. Now 44 individuals are facing disciplinary hearings as the global organisation tries to rebuild trust in the highly competitive world of Irish dancing.

Irish Times reporter Shauna Bowers spoke to North Carolina-based Sandra Connick who has taken over as chair of CLRG. Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Suzanne Brennan and Declan Conlon.

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