by Ger Hennessy
As her term as Scouting Ireland's Chief Scout came to an end last weekend, we sat down with Jill Pitcher Farrell to ask about her feelings, memories, and plans for the future.
"I'm feeling emotional," she says, "but I'm not sure which set of emotions!"
"I'm happy my term has ended, excited to start a new chapter, but sadder than expected to be giving up the role."
Jill has known for some time that she would not be running for re-election. "I knew I didn't want to spend the majority of my twenties as Chief!".
As a Youth Member and Scouter, Jill has a unique perspective for the role. "I've been a Scouter since I turned 18, so I could understand difficulties encountered in dealing with issues such as procedures, finances, forms and ratios.", she says, "As a Youth Member, I think I also had interesting insights, because I could make reference to my own journey through Adventure Skills and the Chief Scout Award".
The job has come with unique opportunities to represent Scouting Ireland at home and abroad, whether discussing the Korean weather with Morning Ireland or dining with royalty in Dublin. "I've been invited to speak at a women's caucus, the NYCI and a school in Kilmacud!".
Scouting Ireland's profile might be well known to us, but Jill has been pleased to dispell a few myths such as it's 'just for boys', or that it's all about knots. She was surprised at one point that one of her housemates didn't know that Scouting still existed, so she was glad to tell them that it's thriving, and she was the Chief Scout!
So why did she put her name forward all those years ago? "I had role models growing up in Scouts and I feel strongly about 'can't see, can't be'", she says "so I thought it was something I could do". Having stood for election she says she was "shocked" to have won. "I hope I have been a role model be one for the female patrol leaders, and the next generation".
The role of Chief Scout was redefined in 2018 with the restructuring of Scouting Ireland at National level, but Jill has noticed a strengthening of the role in her term. "The role is much clearer," she says, "lines have been defined." "The Chief Scout now has direct links with the International Commissioner, National Youth Rep.s and the Provincial Commissioners", with a strong connection to the Board." There's "Still work for Eoin", the new Chief Scout, in shaping the role, she says.
What has Jill learned about herself during the term? "Don't be afraid to ask for help and support", she says, "in running for the role, and in office, I have been helped a lot." In advising future would-be candidates she says, "Go for it. I was shocked when I was elected, but you are far more competent than you would ever believe!".
Duty done, what's next for Jill? "Travelling, having a few more weekends to hike and kayak", she says "and continuing Scouting, but in minor capacity".
Thanks Jill.
