The Charities Regulator has appointed inspectors to carry out a statutory investigation into the company behind the Bóthar charity.

The regulator’s main functions are to maintain the public register of charitable organisations operating in Ireland and to ensure their compliance with the Charities Act.

It has stressed that the opening of a statutory investigation is not, in itself, a finding of any wrongdoing.

Engagement

Bóthar is involved in sending livestock to families and communities as a way of overcoming hunger and poverty in a sustainable way.

The regulator says it has been engaging with Bóthar since early in 2020 after concerns were raised about the charity in late 2019.

“While the Charities Regulator acknowledges Bóthar’s engagement with it on the concerns raised, the Charities Regulator has determined that a statutory investigation into the charity is warranted,” chief executive Helen Martin (pictured) said.

The inspectors will now prepare a report on their investigation and findings. The regulator says it will not be making any further comment while the investigation is ongoing.