MEMBERSHIP of Scouting Ireland has topped more than 40,000 for the first time in its 100-year history.
Chief scout Michael John Shinnick says the recession is only helping to boost numbers. “Parents remember what the scouts stood for when they were children and I think they want to instil those good values in their children.”
“Being a member of the scouts is not costly with uniforms costing about €70 and compared to many other groups, that compares well.
“This is the greatest number of scouts we have ever had and the organisation is in really good condition at present,” he said.
More than 850 scouts yesterday packed their rucksacks after a two-day programme at Camp Portlick in Athlone. The group was preparing for their visit to next year’s World Jamboree in Sweden.
There are now 450 groups across the 32 counties with five sections in each group including beavers, cubs, scouts, ventures and rovers according to age.