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ICRI: Professional Accreditation in Ireland

The Institute of Conservator-Restorers in Ireland (ICRI) has been the accrediting body for the profession in Ireland since 1993.

The Accreditation Committee

Chair: Susannah Kelly A-ICRI, freelance Archaeological Conservator.

Committee Secretary: Clodagh Neligan A-ICRI, Senior Paper Conservator at Trinity College Library.

Committee Members:

  • Grellan D. Rourke A-ICRI, Conservation Architect with OPW
  • Noureen Qureshi A-ICRI, Preventative Conservator at the National Gallery of Ireland and freelance Paper Conservator

Contact: neliganc@tcd.ie

What is ICRI Accreditation?

Accreditation is a professional qualification awarded to those Conservator-Restorers, resident in Ireland, who meet recognised standards and competences in the preservation, conservation and restoration of cultural heritage.

Accredited professionals must demonstrate high levels of technical skill, ethical practice, sound judgment and decision-making within their chosen specialisation.

ICRI's Accreditation process has three essential elements:

  • Application: A comprehensive peer-reviewed assessment process that comprises an in-depth professional discussion evaluating practical and ethical decision-making. The assessment involves both in situ observation and a portfolio review.
  • Continued Professional Development (CPD): An ongoing review process that measures and maintains the professional competence of Accredited Conservator-Restorers.
  • Withdrawal of Accredited Status: A review process for Accredited Conservator-Restorers who fail to meet a minimum standard of best practice and ethics.

Why is Accreditation Important?

Accreditation provides personal and professional benefits, which include:

Quality Assurance for Employers

Accredited status builds public trust and credibility for the profession by ensuring all work meets best practice standards.

Professional Status

ICRI's exclusive accredited post-nominals (A-ICRI) helps you promote your business and expand your job opportunities.

Improving Professional Standards

Ongoing peer-reviewed assessment encourages Accredited Conservator-Restorers to regularly review, maintain and improve their conservation practice and knowledge.

Boosts Confidence and Motivation

Accreditation validates individual competence and stimulates motivation through responsibility, knowledge exchange and professional mentorship.

Testimonials

"The Heritage Council is a strong supporter of professional standards within heritage professions, including for Conservator-Restorers. The accreditation provided by ICRI is a quality mark that denotes the professional status of a conservator. ICRI Accreditation indicates to members of the public and other heritage professionals that a conservator has achieved the highest standards of professional practice within their work."
Aalia Kamal - Cultural and Inclusive Heritage Officer, Heritage Council of Ireland
"Accreditation has only been positive for me: it ensures I operate at a professional level; others can trust my advice and speaks volumes to those I work with. I work with many curators who wish there was something similar in place for their profession."
Claire Magill ACR - Regional Conservator for Northern Ireland, National Trust

Who is Eligible to Apply?

An ICRI Conservator-Restorer (C-R) member may apply regardless of the route they have taken in their career, their specialisation or the context in which they practice, provided they comply with the necessary requirements noted in the ICRI Byelaws.

Applicants must meet the following criteria before applying:

  • ICRI C-R members wishing to apply for Accreditation must be resident in Ireland.
  • ICRI C-R members must be in good standing with all dues paid.
  • ICRI C-R members who hold a recognised degree in Conservation and have a minimum of 5 years practical experience in their chosen specialisation.
  • ICRI C-R members who do not hold a formal degree in Conservation, but who have a minimum of 10 years practical experience in their chosen specialisation.

Thinking of Applying?

Summary of the Accreditation Process, Key Stages and Timeline

1. Preparation

Read Guidelines, Constitution, Bye-Laws and Code of Conduct

2. Registration

Submit by 30th Sept. Pay €150 fee

3. Mentorship

Choose mentor, arrange studio visit

4. Application

Submit by 31st March. Pay €350 fee

5. Review

Committee reviews application

6. Assessment

1-day assessment with 3 assessors

7. Outcome

Board approval and notification

8. CPD

Ongoing professional development

Getting Started

If you are a C-R member interested in becoming accredited, first read ICRI's Accreditation Guidelines for Candidates, Constitution, Bye Laws and Code of Conduct. Also consult E.C.C.O. Competences for Access to the Conservation-Restoration Profession.

Complete the Registration of Intent form and send to secretary@icriconservation.ie by 30th September. Pay the non-refundable €150 registration fee. You will then be assigned 3 potential mentors to choose from.

The Assessment

  • Assessment takes place over 1 day with professional discussion of your selected projects (at least 3 must be viewable)
  • 3 assessors: 2 ICRI accredited + 1 Icon-qualified external assessor
  • Assessors compile a joint report for Committee and Board review

The accreditation process is confidential.

Outcome & CPD

If successful, you receive a confirmation letter and invoice for membership fee (up to €100). You may then use the post-nominals A-ICRI.

To maintain accredited status, members must continue Professional Development and pay the annual €100 membership fee. CPD is assessed after year one, then on a 3-year cycle.

Ready to Begin Your Accreditation Journey?

Contact the Accreditation Committee Secretary to start your application process.

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