Garda Vetting

Garda Vetting

At our FAI and DDSL affiliated football club, the safety and wellbeing of all children and vulnerable persons is our highest priority. Garda Vetting is a mandatory requirement for all adults who work with underage players, including coaches, managers, assistant coaches, committee members, and volunteers who have regular access to children.

Garda Vetting is carried out through the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) and is a legal requirement under the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012–2016 and the Children First Act 2015. All vetting applications must be completed before an individual can begin working with children or vulnerable persons. (fai.ie)

Who Needs Garda Vetting?

Any adult involved in a role that includes regular contact with players under the age of 18 must be Garda Vetted. This includes:

• Team Managers
• Coaches and Assistant Coaches
• Club Child Welfare Officers
• Committee Members involved with underage football
• Volunteers assisting with underage teams
• Any other person with regular access to children

Please note that Garda Vetting completed through another organisation cannot be transferred to the FAI. A separate application must be completed through the FAI system. (fai.ie)

How to Apply for Garda Vetting

All Garda Vetting applications are processed online through the FAI COMET system.

1. Follow the steps outlined in the GFC Garda vetting guide above.
2. Complete the required forms and upload your proof of identity documents.
3. Submit your application through the FAI COMET system.
4. The National Vetting Bureau will process your application.
5. Once approved, your vetting status will be updated with the FAI and the club.

If you are aged 16 or 17, a signed Parent/Guardian Consent Form is required as part of the application. (fai.ie)

Documents Required

Applicants may be asked to provide:

• Valid photo identification (Passport or Driving Licence)
• Proof of address dated within the last six months
• Completed consent forms (where applicable)
• Parent/Guardian Consent Form for applicants aged 16–17

How Long Does Garda Vetting Take?

Processing times can vary depending on the accuracy of the information provided and whether you have lived outside Ireland. The National Vetting Bureau notes that most electronic applications are processed quickly, although delays can occur during busy periods. (Garda)

Re-Vetting

In line with FAI safeguarding requirements, Garda Vetting must be renewed at least every three years. The FAI or the club may require re-vetting sooner if a person's role changes or if safeguarding concerns arise. (fai.ie)

Important Information

• Garda Vetting is confidential and managed in accordance with data protection legislation.
• A vetting disclosure does not automatically prevent a person from volunteering; each case is assessed in line with FAI safeguarding policies.
• No individual may commence working with children until the club has received confirmation that their Garda Vetting is complete.

Need Help?

If you need assistance with your Garda Vetting application, please contact our Club Child Welfare Officer or Club Secretary, who will be happy to guide you through the process.

For more information, visit the FAI Garda Vetting Information Page or the National Vetting Bureau.