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« on: September 08, 2006, 14:04:02 PM »
Lads, firstly sorry for joining the topic late but I would like to point out a few things.
Firstly I would like to applaude Fred for a wonderful site and for stirring things up in the gliding community here.
I have only been flying for 19 years now (not a long time compared to my other friends in Cork) and have seen many things happen within the MACI, I have been glider sec several times within the 19 years.
MACI is of huge importance to ALL flyers in Ireland!
Yes MACI has rules but they are to promote and protect its members and their interests. The reason the world Ireland is not encouraged (not banned, I might add) is because a group (jets if I remember correctly) presented themselves as the offical Irish Aero Club group for an international competition. These people were not chosen by anyone other than themselves to represent Ireland at this event.
MACI offers many things to ALL of it's members.
1) Insurance cover this is the most obvious one we all see.
2) Representation to govenrment bodies seeking funding for the development of this sport.
3) Representation to govenrment bodies seeking new frequncies for its members to operate on. note he have another 5or six legal channels to operat on.
4)Representation to govenrment bodies on committees with regard to legislation concerning our use of the air.
I could go on and on but I wont, I realise that it appears they are a bunch of old fogies but in reality they are our representatives, we put them their and we are responsible for their action/inaction.
If we are really interested in promoting our activities to all, we all need to unify and work together.
I suggest that all ISR members should join the MACI, come to the MACI AGM in November and get someone elected who will represent you at nationl level.
Recently we had a glider towing session, but I was afraid to contact anyone here as MACI insurance is a prerequisite for all events in Ireland.
To date the Clubs have looked the other way with regard to insurance, but now I feel all flyers need insurance. Insurance from other flying bodies are not suitable for flying in Ireland, i.e. if you are resident (for a period of more than 6 months) in Ireland you need Insurance that is based in Ireland.
The Cork model Aero club intends to host an aerotow and winching day over the next few months so if you are interested you are welcome but please MACI Insurance.
Before you all fall asleep one more little thing ISR is not the only gliding club in Ireland, the original rebels were the Association of Southern Soarers were here first! (long story but mail me if you want to know about it)
Please I hope that this does not insult or aggrivate anyone it it just I feel strongly about safe flying in Ireland, hopefully this will generate some useful debate on these important topics.
Clear skies and good winds
Ralph McCarthy
Cork Model Aero Club
Association of Southern Soarers (ASS)