As President of the Irish Soccer Referees Society, I am writing to remind all branches and members of the
importance of exercising caution, professionalism, and responsibility in the use of social media platforms. I also ask
members to refer to our social media guidelines published online and as part of our current Constitution.
While social media can be a valuable tool for communication and engagement, it also presents significant legal risks
where content is published without due regard for accuracy, fairness, and respect for others. In particular, I wish to
draw your attention to the serious issue of defamation.
Defamatory statements—whether written, shared, reposted, or endorsed—can expose both the individual member
and, in certain circumstances, the Society and its branches to legal action. It is essential to understand that liability
may arise not only from original posts but also from comments, replies, or the sharing of third-party content that
could reasonably be considered damaging to another person’s reputation.
The financial and reputational consequences of such actions can be severe. Defending a defamation claim can
impose a substantial financial burden on any organisation, particularly a voluntary one such as the ISRS, where
resources are limited and must be carefully stewarded. Legal costs associated with investigating, defending, or
settling such claims can be significant, regardless of the eventual outcome.
Members should also be aware that individuals can be held personally liable for defamatory content they publish.
Membership of the Society does not shield any individual from potential legal consequences arising from their
personal actions online. Furthermore, it is not always possible for the Society to assume responsibility for, or to provide indemnity against such actions.
In light of the above, I strongly urge all branches to:
1. Remind members to exercise caution, restraint, and professionalism in all online communications.
2. Avoid posting or sharing any content that could be considered defamatory, misleading, or unsubstantiated.
3. Refrain from engaging in public disputes or commentary that could harm the reputation of individuals,
organisations, or the Society itself.
4. Ensure that official branch accounts are managed responsibly and that appropriate oversight mechanisms
are in place.
The ISRS is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
This extends to all forms of communication, including those conducted in digital and public domains.
Your cooperation in reinforcing this message at branch level is essential. By acting responsibly, we can protect both
the reputation of the Society and the wellbeing of our members.
Should you require further clarification on this matter, please do not hesitate to contact the Officer Board.
Eugene Deering
ISRS President
importance of exercising caution, professionalism, and responsibility in the use of social media platforms. I also ask
members to refer to our social media guidelines published online and as part of our current Constitution.
While social media can be a valuable tool for communication and engagement, it also presents significant legal risks
where content is published without due regard for accuracy, fairness, and respect for others. In particular, I wish to
draw your attention to the serious issue of defamation.
Defamatory statements—whether written, shared, reposted, or endorsed—can expose both the individual member
and, in certain circumstances, the Society and its branches to legal action. It is essential to understand that liability
may arise not only from original posts but also from comments, replies, or the sharing of third-party content that
could reasonably be considered damaging to another person’s reputation.
The financial and reputational consequences of such actions can be severe. Defending a defamation claim can
impose a substantial financial burden on any organisation, particularly a voluntary one such as the ISRS, where
resources are limited and must be carefully stewarded. Legal costs associated with investigating, defending, or
settling such claims can be significant, regardless of the eventual outcome.
Members should also be aware that individuals can be held personally liable for defamatory content they publish.
Membership of the Society does not shield any individual from potential legal consequences arising from their
personal actions online. Furthermore, it is not always possible for the Society to assume responsibility for, or to provide indemnity against such actions.
In light of the above, I strongly urge all branches to:
1. Remind members to exercise caution, restraint, and professionalism in all online communications.
2. Avoid posting or sharing any content that could be considered defamatory, misleading, or unsubstantiated.
3. Refrain from engaging in public disputes or commentary that could harm the reputation of individuals,
organisations, or the Society itself.
4. Ensure that official branch accounts are managed responsibly and that appropriate oversight mechanisms
are in place.
The ISRS is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
This extends to all forms of communication, including those conducted in digital and public domains.
Your cooperation in reinforcing this message at branch level is essential. By acting responsibly, we can protect both
the reputation of the Society and the wellbeing of our members.
Should you require further clarification on this matter, please do not hesitate to contact the Officer Board.
Eugene Deering
ISRS President
