Amateur golf in Ireland will now fall under a single governing body after two landmark votes cleared the way for the amalgamation of the Irish Ladies Golf Union and the Golfing Union of Ireland.
Those bodies will become a single entity - Golf Ireland - meaning the game will now, for the first time in this country, have an all-inclusive governing body.
The Irish Ladies Golf Union approved a special resolution at their AGM, while simultaneously the Golfing Union of Ireland passed a motion at a Special General Meeting.
At the GUI meeting, 94% were in favour of the proposal, while the ILGU had a vote 100% in favour.
It's the outcome of a three-year process of discussion and consultation between the two Unions, internally with their respective clubs and regional bodies, and externally with key national and international stakeholders.
They now begin a transition period and aim to hold a first AGM towards the end of 2020.
"We are delighted with the outcome of the votes at our respective meetings, and thank everyone who has given this proposal their support," a joint statement read.
"Bringing two strong organisations, the ILGU and GUI together to create a stronger, more influential organisation, Golf Ireland, will not only enhance golf in Ireland but will enhance Irish golf worldwide. The result today indicates that members of both Unions are in support of creating a new organisation which will be built around promoting core principles of equality, diversity, inclusion and excellence.
"The result today is a validation of the work put in by everyone involved. The input which has been received from our member clubs, our staff and volunteers, and everyone else who has in some way contributed to the final proposal should be recognised.
"The result of their efforts will be a new dynamic organisation, charged with the promotion of the game of golf, with a commitment to excellence and inclusivity."
