THE public are asked to be vigilant for bogus house-to-house collections in the lead-up to Christmas.
The Charities Regulator and An Garda Síochána are warning members of the public to be vigilant if they wish to donate to charity through house-to-house collections.
People will be familiar with bags and stickers coming through their letterboxes asking for donations of unwanted clothing or other items.
“What people may not realise is that many of these collectors are not registered charities,” a Garda spokesperson said.
“The message from the Charities Regulator and An Garda Síochána is to remember that only registered charities are regulated.
“So far this year the Charities Regulator has 75 reports from the public expressing concern about people and/or organisations operating house-to-house collections for unwanted clothing and other goods.
“There is a quick and easy way to check whether or not an organisation is a registered charity. You can check the online Register of Charities at www.charitiesregulator.ie.
“Leaflets and bags received for clothing collections from registered charities should clearly display the following information: The charity’s name; The charity’s logo; The charity’s Registered Charity Number; Contact details for the charity.
If you think a caller or collection is bogus please report it to your local Garda Station.
