[1] Founded in 1927,[2] CLRG is responsible for creating a standardised system of Irish dance, music and competition for its member organisations in 26 countries.

In 1969, a group of Irish dance teachers, frustrated with what they perceived to be a lack of influence in the growing organisation, broke from CLRG and formed Comhdháil na Múinteoirí le Rincí Gaelacha (The Congress of Irish Dance Teachers) to compete with CLRG.

Following the Split, CLRG decided to host Oireachtas Rince na Cruinne (the World Championships) for the first time in 1970.

Over the following 20 years, the number of competitors at the World Championships increased dramatically, and the percentage of dancers from outside Ireland and the U.K. lifted to nearly 50%.

[6] The rapid increase in the number of dancers across the world accelerated the globalisation, and led to the election of Peter Smith in 2004 as the first president resident outside Ireland.

The introduction of movements from Spanish flamenco, ballet and other styles led to concerns about the erosion of traditional Irish culture.

Particularly controversial was the use in competition of tight curled wigs, fake tan and crystal embellishment, ostensibly to draw attention to a dancer on stage.

[10] The new rules included a prohibition on the use of makeup or false eyelashes in competition for dancers under the age of 10, as well as a restriction on "carriage aids", which assisted competitors to maintain a rigid posture.

CLRG stated that appointed a former Court of Appeal judge to investigate the allegations and would take action against members found to have breached its policies.

[14] Australian Irish Dancing Association (AIDA)[15] North American Feis Commission[16]/Irish Dancing Teachers Association of North America (IDTANA)[17] CLRG organises two major competitions each year: Oireachtas Rince Na Cruinne (the World Championships) and Oireachtas Rince na hÉireann (the All Ireland Championships).

Since 2000, however, they have been held in a number of countries each year,[20] and have taken place in Northern Ireland, Scotland, England, the United States and Canada.

Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in a variety of solo and ceilí dances, and are marked on timing, footwork, execution and carriage, as in competition.