[council] Observers at NC meetings
Cary,
you raise an excellent issue and indeed one faced by all
constituencies from time to time. Although as elected representatives we have a
duty to be more than directed automatons, there may be circumstances where more
consultation is needed.
There are ways to minimise the problem:
- the chair in writing the agenda should be clear and
explicit on the issues.
- issues, papers etc should be posted well in advance to
facilitate constituency debate (we have guidelines on this).
Your proposed interim solutions have merit but also cost. One
of the reasons we suspended observer posts on calls was their cost. Once we knew
we could post - usually in 30 minutes - an audio of the meeting - it satisfied
the requirement for transparency at minimal cost. Sadly, today, of
the seven constituencies, only three have paid their 2002 fees and others still
owe for past years.
As you mention, the reform process has forced upon us an
obligation to meet more regularly than our usual monthly timetable. Under these
circumstances deferring an issue may be an option where the external deadline
allows us to do so.
Philip
NC Chair
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