Galway auctioneer Gerry Coffey has stepped down as president of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers.
Mr Coffey stepped down on Friday evening, saying CEO Pat Davitt set out to “frustrate and suppress” him.
According to today's Irish Times, in his resignation letter, Mr Coffey said he tried to settle issues from the outset but believed his representations prompted an ''orchestrated campaign to damage his name and reputation''.
The institute, which represents 1,500 auctioneers, promotes professional standards for estate agents and property valuers.
His departure comes seven weeks after Co Louth auctioneer Joanne Lavelle stood down from her role as senior vice-president, saying she had no wish to become the next president and that IPAV governance structures lacked cohesion and accountability.
