Members clear way for IFA’s new disciplinary bylaw

The changes, which took effect at the start of this month, will see the IFA take stronger ownership of the complaints process, with the body pursuing complaints rather than the aggrieved client.

"This is what you expect of a professional body," said president Lyn McMorran. "The bylaw was passed by our membership" and wasn't just rubber-stamped by the council body, she said.

The Complaints Committee will now be known as the Professional Conduct Committee, and have a greater emphasis on seeking remedial action rather than punishment for less serious charges.

The Disciplinary Committee will become the Disciplinary Tribunal and will deal with more serious matters in hearings open to the public. The tribunal will be able to limit access to the hearings and suppress the publication of members' names if it chooses.