It has been disappointing to read reports of significant angst over the recent proposed changes to the ACS legal structure and governance, and concern about the more outward looking ACS strategy.
Whilst I share concern at the flawed process that was provided for consideration and approval of these changes, I note that that such concerns, and some queries as to the implications of some of the mooted constitutional and operational changes, do not constitute a repudiation of the ACS strategy, nor do they necessarily represent a lack of confidence in the ACS leadership.
Whilst ACS strategy is the responsibility of the members of ACS Congress and MC elected to develop and approve it, I am also personally quite comfortable with ACS reinforcing its relevance and its operations by continuing to broaden its innovation focus in a practical way.
My main disappointment is that a number of unrelated queries, and demands for resignations, published and distributed by a small group of, mostly retired, members have been represented, or interpreted as representing, the views of a majority of ACS Fellows and HLM’s.
I can only advise that, as a Fellow, and an HLM, and a 50+year ACS member, I do not share in these queries, or endorse these peremptory demands, and nor do most of the many senior ACS colleagues with whom I have discussed them.
Those of the published queries related to financial investments simply appear to display a misunderstanding of the ACS financial report, and/or the accounting standards required.
I am also aware, however, of a number of ACS members, whose opinions I respect, having legitimate concerns as to the content of any new constitution, and changes to Board nomination and selection processes, and some wanting a more detailed explanation justifying the suggested change to ACS legal structure from that of an Incorporated Association registered in the ACT, to a national Company Limited by Guarantee (a change which I personally consider overdue, very sensible, and quite common as Incorporated Associations outgrow single States).
It is my hope that calm and intelligent discussion will answer the legitimate concerns, establish an acceptable change process, and allow the ACS to continue to serve its members and the broader community even more effectively in the future.
