Over 37,000 members of the two Irish-based accountancy bodies first voted on an amalgamation proposal in February 2024 with a majority of members voting in favour of uniting the two organisations to create a single Institute to better represent the interests of its members, the wider public, and the accountancy profession in Ireland, north and south of the border.

From 1 September, CPA Ireland members, students, staff and services have been incorporated into those of Chartered Accountants Ireland creating the largest professional body on the island of Ireland. This follows a comprehensive process of engagement between representatives from both organisations as to the legal, regulatory and staffing requirements of the move.

The new entity will operate using the Chartered Accountants Ireland brand.

Chartered Accountants Ireland president Barry Doyle said: “Today Chartered Accountants Ireland welcomes new members, students, and staff to the Institute. This is the culmination of close member engagement and strong collaboration between both Institutes towards a shared vision for the future of the profession.

“I want to thank members for their support and feedback which has laid the foundations for a new chapter in our history, and I look forward to working closely with all members in the coming months.”

Northern Ireland Economy Minister Conor Murphy welcomed the new amalgamation. He said: “My department has worked closely with Chartered Accountants Ireland over recent months to help facilitate this change and we have now paved the way for the creation of the only Irish-based accountancy body.

“The accountancy profession in Ireland is amongst the best in the world. I welcome this move, and the stage is now set for strengthening and growing our accountancy profession even further.

“A strong, healthy and more united accountancy profession helps to underpin my strategic priorities of creating good jobs, promoting regional balance and increasing productivity.”

Mr Doyle added: “Earlier this year, Chartered Accountants Ireland and CPA Ireland members voted in favour of amalgamating as Chartered Accountants Ireland to better position the profession for the future. Our members support every facet of the economy, in cities, towns and villages across the island.

“I want to thank Minister Murphy and his department for their extremely positive engagement in recent months as we worked to implement this on behalf of members.”