Student Representative Assembly Meeting 13G Sunday, September
Student Representative Assembly Meeting 13G Sunday, September 29, 2013 at 6:30 pm Council Chambers, GH 111
Called to Order at 6:38 pm CALL OF THE ROLL Present
Absent Excused Absent Late Others Present
Chair
Abbas, Abdelrahman, Brodka, Campbell, Candemir, A. D’Angela, D. D’Angela, Dicenzo, D’Mello, Doucet, Garasia, Gillis, Graham, Guarna, Harper, Jeyasingham, Leslie, Long, MacKinnon, Mallon, Morrow, Narro Perez, Palczewski, Paul, Pullen, Rheaume, Sparrow, Tichenkov, Wolwowicz
Loewig, Milani Miranda Clayton (McMaster Marching Band), Jacqueline Nowoselski (McMaster Marching Band), Ruth Green (Westdale Resident), Kathryn Chan (EWB), Stephen Woo (EWB), Souzan Mirza (EWB), Alexandra Sproule (SASS Observer), David Drake (McMaster Solar Car Project), David Rios (MSU Member), Abed Wahoush (MSU Member), Dave Moore (MSUAA), Gabriel Cicchi (MSU Member), Carly Hunter (YCL), Teddy Saul (self), Jacob Klugsberg (TAC Coordinator), Lindsey Huff (Chief Returning Officer), Krystina Ali (SOCS), Nathaniel Loranger (OPIRG), Mel Napeloni (OPIRG), Ana Qarri (Diversity Services Assistant Director), Timothy Swampillai (EWB), Randy Kay (OPIRG), Sam Godfrey (Incite Magazine/The Silhouette), Kojo Damptey (OPIRG), Amina Suhruraty (OPIRG), Yuvreet Kaur (OPIRG), Alish Sundergi (OPIRG), Victoria Scott (Recording Secretary) Maria Daniel
ADOPTION OF AGENDA Moved by Graham, seconded by Sparrow that the agenda be adopted as amended. Amendments Moved by Sparrow, seconded by Tichenkov to move Committee Business before Business.
Sparrow explained that there are a lot of people to present for Bylaw 5 – Financial Affairs, so the section should be moved to hear these concerns sooner.
Vote on Amendment In Favour: 28 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 0 Motion Passes Moved by Gillis, seconded by Campbell to add “Open Nominations for SRA seat on Ad-Hoc Committee on Democratic Reform” to Business. Passes Unanimously Moved by D. D’Angela, seconded by Brodka to add “Open Seats for SRA Members on Standing Committees: Finance (2) and Services (1)” to Business Passes Unanimously
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Vote to Adopt Agenda Passes by General Consent ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
The Speaker announced that there was a request for a ruling on whether or not regrets that are submitted after an SRA meeting from which a member of the Assembly was absent would be accepted. The ruling of the Speaker is as follows: Regrets that are submitted after an SRA meeting from which a member of the Assembly was absent will not be accepted. The Speaker reminded the Assembly that the members are asked address all remarks through the Chair, and that should members wish to rise on a point or order or privilege, to please wait to be recognized by the Chair before proceeding. The Speaker also asked that during debate to please confine comments to the merits of the pending question only. The Speaker also noted that the Observers List was being circulated, and could all Observers please fill this out with the relevant information.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES Moved by Mallon, seconded by D. D’Angela that the Assembly adopt the minutes from SRA 13F – September 15, 2013 as presented. In Favour: 30 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 0 Motion Passes DELEGATIONS FROM THE FLOOR Set Parameters for Delegations Moved by Campbell, seconded by Guarna to set parameters for Delegations from the Floor to be 10 minutes for presenting, and five minutes for questions each. Passes Unanimously 1.
OPIRG-McMaster – Randy Kay and Alecia Sundergi presented (presentation attached)
OPIRG went over their presentation with the Assembly.
Questions Rheaume asked if the AGM was open to McMaster students, and what was the seating capacity of the room where it was held. Sundergi responded that it was open to everyone. Kay replied that that it was held in a room in Togo Salmon Hall, and they didn’t know the seat capacity. Sundergi added that they usually try to get students out by offering incentives. Brodka asked them to share the average number of those who have opted-out of the fees from previous years. Kay responded that around 747 students opted out. Morrow asked what type of promotion they use for the opt-out. Kay responded that they advertise it on the MSU and the McMaster websites and it is put in the Almanac, the Welcome Week preview, and the Silhouette. Guarna asked if they considered increasing the monetary contribution to the working groups. Kay responded that it’s amazing how little money it takes for students to fill the mandate, but some need more funding so the groups can apply for it. Sundergi explained that OPIRG isn’t just about money, it’s about supporting the community.
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2.
Engineers Without Borders – McMaster – Kathryn Chan and Alexandra Sproule presented (presentation attached)
EWB went over their presentation with the Assembly.
Moved by Sparrow, seconded by Graham to allow the presentation to exceed the time limit until it was finished. Passes Unanimously Questions Graham asked them to speak to their governance structure and how to get involved. Chan responded that they hold their elections in March for the next year’s executive. She added that anyone can join and try to advertise as much as possible. Graham asked if any student could run for EWB President. Chan responded that they could. Klugsberg asked if they receive external funding other than the student levy. Chan responded that they do receive money from the Faculty of Engineering and through fundraising. She added that they sometimes get donations from external groups. REPORT PERIOD 1.
Health Sciences Caucus – Harper presented
2.
Harper summarized the report. Humanities Caucus – Wolwowicz presented
Wolwowicz summarized the report.
Questions Abbas asked what the task groups were. Wolwowicz responded that there is one for community involvement, first year experience, beyond first year, and reimagining and re-visioning Humanities. Abbas asked if this will be made public to the SRA. Wolwowicz responded that he could do that, and will try to find the reports. 3.
Kinesiology - no report
4.
Operations Commissioner – Pullen presented
5.
Pullen summarized the report. She explained that the meeting time has changed, please take note. Finance Commissioner – D. D’Angela presented
6.
D. D’Angela summarized the report. Executive Board – Milani presented
7.
Milani summarized the report. Vice-President (Administration) - A. D’Angela
A. D’Angela summarized the report.
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INFORMATION PERIOD
Sparrow informed the Assembly that the Solar Car Project has announced that they are working on achieving highway speeds, and that this group would be one of those affected by Bylaw 5. D. D’Angela ceded to David Drake. Drake thanked Sparrow for mentioning the Solar Car project. He stated that they have also been working on a series of tutorials that are held four days a week. He thanked everyone for bringing this up and allowing him to speak. Campbell informed the Assembly that often conversations at the SRA level are heated, and that disagreement is good but sometimes it occasionally goes beyond that. He addressed a post that was made by a student on Facebook, and stated that when he read it he was disheartened. Campbell explained that sometimes you get exposed and criticized when going into a public position, but that it comes with the job. He wanted to encourage the SRA to make sure that they argue points critically and not attack personally, and to try and stick to the issues. Doucet informed the Assembly that the opt-out for the MSU Health and Dental plans closes tomorrow. He asked everyone to please promote this. He stated that the Sponsorship & Donations Committee has been meeting regularly. Doucet informed the Assembly that he has been trying to get a polling station on campus for the For Ward 1 initiative. A. D’Angela commended the Arts & Science and Health Sciences Caucuses for having their VLOGS up on the website. She explained that all VLOGS needs to be in by the end of September. Paul informed the Assembly that Social Sciences Society is having a State of the Union and will be talking about plans and the annual budget. Information will be posted on the MSSS website. Graham informed the Assembly that OUSA General Assembly will be held November 1-3 and he will be choosing delegates to attend. This week Advocacy ran the edYOUcation campaign during Quality of Education Week. It was a big success; they had over 100 users for the online chat with the Provost and President of McMaster University. Graham added that they do have plans for the puzzle pieces after. Pullen ceded to Sam Godfrey. Godfrey reported that she was one of the Editors of Incite Magazine, one of the groups that would be affected by the amendments to Bylaw 5. She explained that Incite is an alternative magazine that comes out six times a year. Godfrey stated that the magazine is all volunteer run, and a lot of students are interested in helping out. Abdelrahman ceded to Miranda Clayton. Clayton announced to the Assembly that she does not agree that repeated referendums are the way to being fiscally responsible. Referendums take a lot of time and work, and she disagreed with the fact that this would be the only way to be fair. She added that if Bylaw 5 passed, the groups affected may not be able to budget long-term and they need to do so to thrive as a group. Clayton stated that the changes to Bylaw 5 have the right intentions but that it should be looked at again. Huff reported the Electoral Schedule. She stated that the report will be up on the Elections website. Harper ceded to Ruth Green. Green announced that it was privilege being there at the meeting. She stated that as a past member of the OPIRG Board, it was a moving experience for her to see young people who are dedicated to their community and being involved in a positive way. Green stated that she agrees with the transparency that everyone is looking for but to please consider how it will be done. She explained that from the perspective as a community member, she can only see integrity and that the organization is the heart and soul of the community and would hate to see them disappear for lack of funding.
QUESTION PERIOD
Gillis asked the Board to respond to an article in the Silhouette about raising tuition. He was wondering if there was consensus amongst the Board. Graham responded that he wasn’t sure what Gillis was asking but that he can speak to the drive behind the campaign and why they put it together. The campaign is ‘You’ve Paid Enough’ and it’s being run by the Advocacy Street Team. This was meant to highlight unfair fees that students are paying in their courses, as they are only supposed to be paying of what is outlined in the Ministry guideline. Graham added that there is a new tuition framework as well, where it has been
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lowered to three per cent. Graham stated that this wasn’t optimal but it was progress. Under the OUSA policy there is still a strong stance on freezing tuition. Moore asked if anyone could inform him if the 2010, 2011, and 2012 Marmors have been mailed out. Doucet explained that he didn’t have an answer at that time. Harper asked if there was any information on reporting services on fees. Graham explained that six per cent have reported, and they are currently going through the reports and following up with the appropriate people
Moved by Milani, seconded by Morrow that the Assembly recess for 10 minutes. In Favour: 20 Opposed: 2 Abstentions: 2 Abstained: MacKinnon, Jeyasingham Motion Passes Recessed at 7:57 pm Called to Order at 8:09 pm CALL OF THE ROLL Present
Absent Excused Absent Late Others Present
Chair
Abdelrahman, Brodka, Campbell, Candemir, A. D’Angela, D. D’Angela, Dicenzo, D’Mello, Doucet, Garasia, Gillis, Graham, Guarna, Harper, Jeyasingham, Leslie, Long, MacKinnon, Mallon, Milani, Morrow, Narro Perez, Palczewski, Paul, Pullen, Rheaume, Tichenkov, Wolwowicz
Abbas, Loewig, Sparrow Miranda Clayton (McMaster Marching Band), Jacqueline Nowoselski (McMaster Marching Band), Ruth Green (Westdale Resident), Kathryn Chan (EWB), Stephen Woo (EWB), Souzan Mirza (EWB), Alexandra Sproule (SASS Observer), David Drake (McMaster Solar Car Project), David Rios (MSU Member), Abed Wahoush (MSU Member), Dave Moore (MSUAA), Gabriel Cicchi (MSU Member), Carly Hunter (YCL), Teddy Saul (self), Jacob Klugsberg (TAC Coordinator), Lindsey Huff (Chief Returning Officer), Krystina Ali (SOCS), Nathaniel Loranger (OPIRG), Mel Napeloni (OPIRG), Ana Qarri (Diversity Services Assistant Director), Timothy Swampillai (EWB), Randy Kay (OPIRG), Sam Godfrey (Incite Magazine/The Silhouette), Kojo Damptey (OPIRG), Amina Suhruraty (OPIRG), Yuvreet Kaur (OPIRG), Alish Sundergi (OPIRG), Shelley Porteous (OPIRG), Rebecca McDougall (Advocacy Coordinator), Inemesit Etokudo (Maroons Coordinator), Scott Hastie (The Silhouette), John McGowan (MSU General Manager), Kyle Johansen (MAPS Acting Executive Director), Victoria Scott (Recording Secretary) Maria Daniel
COMMITTEE BUSINESS 1.
BYLAW 5 - FINANCIAL AFFAIRS
Moved by Campbell, seconded by Doucet to set parameters for discussion at 40 minutes.
Campbell explained that he doesn’t mean to limit the discussion, but that the intention was to make everyone conscious of the time. There can always be a motion to extend the discussion if needed.
Vote on Parameters In Favour: 25 Opposed: 5 Abstentions: 1
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Opposed: Milani, Abbas, Abdelrahman, Sparrow, Gillis Abstained: Pullen Motion Passes Moved by D. D’Angela that the SRA approve the changes to BYLAW 5 – FINANCIAL AFFAIRS, as circulated and attached.
D. D’Angela went over the memo and bylaw changes with the Assembly. Doucet thanked everyone who came to partake in the discussions, and to those who presented to the SRA. He spoke to why he asked the Finance Committee to do this, and it was due to meeting with members of the Department of Finance from McMaster University. They were discussing issues pertinent to student fees, and they had a lot of questions of who the student groups were and what they did. The department was trying to infer that these fees were for MSU groups, and were asking about their activities and how the money was spent. When told that they weren’t MSU groups ,the department was put on the defensive and was concerned about the amount of money being paid without the knowledge of spending and publicly available budget. The University finds it troubling because they can’t see how the money is being spent. Doucet stated that some of the groups haven’t even picked up their money over the years and yet students are still paying these fees. Doucet felt that this would be the best option to pursue financial accountability and transparency, but did mention that he was open to other ideas and solutions. He added that he disagreed with the notion that a referendum passed in the 1990’s should be passed on to students and still be binding in 2020. Sparrow stated that he received a lot of letters from students and their concerns about this. He stated that there were a lot of concerns about transparency but there aren’t any concerns about being transparent from these groups. All the student groups are in favour of working on solutions if needed. He felt that the process wasn’t transparent as some of the groups felt that they weren’t consulted about this. He felt that the students should be consulted about the fees being collected from them but it should also be up to the students to decide when this takes place. Sparrow felt that having a referendum every three years doesn’t allow them to focus on their issues. Sparrow stated that the students had a referendum in 1979 for the MSU and they still collect that fee. He pointed out that the MSU isn’t free from financial transparency as they had a campus bar that was renovated and still keeps losing money. He encouraged the SRA to vote the changes down and let actual consultation happen. Jeyasingham felt that the first misconception of a referendum question would be just a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question. He explained that it would be up to the SRA or the Elections Committee to decide what the question would be, and they can make it so that there is more than one option. Jeyasingham clarified that the bylaw won’t be giving any power to the Vice-President (Finance) and Finance Commissioner to control the funding of the groups. He explained that section 4 of the bylaw is just to ensure that the groups have reporting standards. Abdelrahman asked if they really thought that transparency issues will be resolved by a referendum. He stated that he didn’t see that happening. He didn’t have an answer on how to resolve the situation but added that these organizations should have been consulted on this. Most of the groups felt that there wasn’t enough time to get items put together for this motion. He asked for this to be put back to the committee and have them consult the groups properly. Milani wanted D. D’Angela to respond to the allegations brought up against him for not consulting these groups. She ceded her remaining time to him. D. D’Angela explained that he consulted with each group at the beginning of the summer, and based on their answers the Finance Committee came up with the changes. Klugsberg stated that he was impressed with the presentations but felt that the purpose of the bylaw had been misconstrued. He felt that it wasn’t up to the SRA to decide who gets the funding; it’s about a democracy and the decision going to the students who pay these fees. Klugsberg felt that the only way to give students a voice would be to go to referendum. Guarna felt that they could do better, and that the students deserve to be heard. She understood though that it would be difficult to get the word out. Guarna stated that they need to take steps in order to hold these organizations accountable to the fees that they are receiving.
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Sproule felt that EWB or other groups didn’t get a chance to give any feedback on the bylaw itself and wanted to express their views. She explained that they would have preferred to be told about this before it happened. She asked for this to be sent back to committee or not be passed at all. Gillis explained that the Finance Commissioner came to the Bylaws and Procedures meeting stated that he consulted with each of the groups. Gillis stated that the Finance Commissioner explained that this wouldn’t be a burden on the groups at all, yet the groups are stating that they didn’t feel as though they were consulted. Pullen ceded to Kathryn Chan. Chan felt that the referendum wouldn’t be the best way to give students a voice as there wouldn’t be space on the ballot to voice their thoughts or opinions on the matter. She hoped that they find a solution that is beneficial to everyone.
Moved by Campbell, seconded by A. D’Angela to extend the discussion by 20 minutes. Passes Unanimously Discussion on Main Motion Jeyasingham explained that he had a problem with people thinking that referendums are ineffective. He pointed out that all of the fees were approved by referendum in the first place, and now the groups are criticizing the process of the referendum. Jeyasingham wanted to know why it was effective before, but not now. Jeyasingham stated that he represents over 700 Health Sciences students and felt that they would love the opportunity to decide whether they would like to pay a fee or not. He added that there are a lot of concerns that a referendum could lead to defunding, but he wanted to know why these groups think they felt they would be defunded. He felt that students are smart and can make smart decisions. Pullen wondered if according to the bylaws or general referendum rules that the choice of ‘no’ would have to be on the referendum. Jeyasingham responded that the interpretation of the bylaws is up to the Speaker. He felt that since the SRA would be deciding on the question when putting forth a motion they could possibly leave out the option of ‘no’. He explained that MSU referendums always give students the option of ‘no’ to see what the students’ opinions are. Abdelrahman ceded to David Rios. Rios stated that these fees exist because students were willing to pay for fees if they were relevant to the student body. The referendum would keep this relevant, as some student may not want to pay for some fees that were passed 18 years ago. Rios pointed out that he kept hearing about a fear of a referendum, but he felt that if something didn’t pass that meant that students don’t want to pay for those fees. This shouldn’t be about the SRA and the groups, but should be about the student body. D’Mello ceded to Kathryn Chan. Chan appreciated the comments about the referendum, but stated that she would like to focus on the larger issue at hand and that would be the groups doing valuable things for students. She felt that the referendum would affect that, and would take away time from the things that they would like to do. Chan stated that EWB would be more interested in holding forums and having conversations with students. D. D’Angela clarified that section 4 of the Bylaw is not to bring fees to referendum every year. It states that it would have to go to the SRA if there were any problems in the third-party group. He explained that this being brought up as an attack on groups each year is incorrect. This is not an effort to defund on all groups but just asking that every three years this would go to the students to ask them if they would like to continue to pay those fees. Mallon felt that having a referendum once every three years isn’t that hard for groups to prove to students that their fee is worth students to pay for. He added that if the referendum does fail then the onus is on the organization as students may feel they weren’t informed and/or felt that the organization wasn’t relevant to their student life at university. D. D’Angela stated that the Committee looked at different models in place at other universities and the one they are basing it off of was at Queen’s University. He added that at some schools there are hundreds of dollars in fees but over 92% of the groups who received funding were reapproved. Some schools have
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opt-outs online for items like this. He stated that it wasn’t fair to students to not give them a voice on where their money was going. Guarna ceded to Kathryn Chan. Chan stated that she disagreed about referendums being the place for student voices being heard. She felt that not everyone turns out for them. The results aren’t necessarily a reflection of how students feel.
Moved by Campbell, seconded by Morrow to extend the discussion by 15 minutes. Amendment to Parameters Moved by Milani, seconded by Gillis to continue the discussion indefinitely. Discussion on Amendment to Parameters Milani explained that they should just let everyone have a chance to speak and not limit debate. Doucet explained that the timing wasn’t in the spirit of limiting debate, it was making it a time control mechanism. Campbell disagreed with the idea of limiting the discussion as being undemocratic if they do it democratically. Vote on Amendment In Favour: 4 Opposed: 18 Abstentions: 4 Opposed: Campbell, Doucet, Graham, Loewig, Leslie, Morrow, Garasia, Guarna, Brodka, Narro Perez, D’Mello, MacKinnon, Jeyasingham, Harper, Pullen, Palczewski, Mallon, Long Abstained: Wolwowicz, Abbas, Candemir, Abdelrahman Motion Fails Amendment to Parameters Moved by Gillis, seconded by Milani to extend the discussion by 30 minutes.
Gillis explained that he didn’t think 15 minutes The Mover and Seconder found the motion to be friendly
Parameters Moved by Campbell, seconded by Morrow to extend the discussion by 30 minutes.
Abbas explained that while he appreciated what Campbell was trying to do, but having the discussion being shortened each time makes them have to keep extending the discussion. This maintains the spirit of the discussion.
Vote on Parameters Passes Unanimously
Milani felt that they were having a great informed discussion but that she would like to move a motion for Bylaw 5 to be brought back to the Finance Committee to look over.
Moved by Milani, seconded by Campbell that BYLAW 5 – FINANCIAL AFFAIRS be brought to the Finance Committee to include individual MSU fees in Section 3 to ensure these fees are brought to referendum every three years. Discussion to Recommit Milani felt that this conversation would have more of an impact. They are not holding themselves to a standard if this doesn’t happen.
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Campbell explained that he was hoping to recommit the discussion, and suggests that if they do so they focus to get more feedback. He stated that they shouldn’t be limiting the Finance Committee by requiring them to bring this back with MSU fees, as it undermines the discussion they just had. Sparrow explained that he liked the idea of all fees or not fees, but would prefer if they just voted down the original motion and to come up with something else.
Amendment Moved by Doucet, seconded by Rheaume that BYLAW 5 – FINANCIAL AFFAIRS be recommitted to the Finance Committee. Discussion on Amendment Doucet explained that the intention was to see if there were concerns or other ideas on how to get input from the groups. He believed there have been significant discussions with legitimate concerns. He stated that recommitting this back to the Finance Committee would be appropriate. Rheaume agreed with the motion so that other solutions can be reviewed. He stated that in the spirit of transparency they should look at the alternative of striking the proposed tri-annual referendum and granting students the power to opt-out of any or all third-party fees for a period of four weeks during term one. This would give everyone a chance to discuss and could avoid an all or none solution or risking being defunded. Sparrow felt that the problem was the amount of consultation done. Campbell asked if the motion itself was recommitted back to the Finance Committee do they have the option of bringing it back the exact way it was presented today. The Speaker stated that they could. Campbell explained that some sort of amendment would be good, and that the ambiguity is over whether a referendum is the best way to be transparent. He stated that they are probably not going to be able to resolve this right now and that it would be better held at the Finance Committee. More consultation needs to be done, and the Committee meetings are open for anyone to attend. Amendment to the Amendment Moved by Sparrow that the motion read “Moved by Doucet, seconded by Rheaume that Bylaw 5 – Financial Affairs be recommitted to the Finance Committee and that the Finance Committee engage in an extensive consultation from all affected groups and communities.”
The amendment to the amendment was friendly with the Mover and Seconder of the original amendment.
Discussion on Amendment Sproule stated that it would be useful to explained what consultation means as it could mean different things to different people. She asked if there would be a limited time for consultation as it would be useful for the external groups to understand the process and give input. Palczewski ceded to Krystina Ali. Ali asked what was actively being done to help if this bylaw passed. Jeyasingham stated that he was in favour of committing it back to the Finance Committee but felt that when they made the amendment to include consultation, it was vague. He explained that different people have different ideas and what if groups didn’t respond to the consultation requests, and if it wasn’t extensive enough. Jeyasingham stated that when this gets brought back to the Assembly the consultation would have to be considered, and felt that it wasn’t necessary to put that as part of the amendment. D. D’Angela ceded to David Rios. Rios stated that the amendment makes this a SRA group issue, and it’s supposed to be a SRA and Student Body issue. He didn’t see the need to amend the amendment. Guarna felt that they were losing sight of the original heart of the bylaw. While she agreed with the element of consultation she suggested just sending the groups a version of the bylaw crafted. She agreed with Rios stating that it was an issue of the student body and that they were losing sight of the original focus, which was giving transparency.
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Sparrow stated that it was up to the SRA to decide if the proper consultation took place and that if they determined it wasn’t enough they can send it back to the Committee again. Doucet explained that they were all getting caught up on the wording of the motion. He encouraged all SRA members to speak to their concerns, and felt as though everyone was in agreement that this should be going back to committee.
Vote on Amendment Moved by Doucet, seconded by Rheaume that BYLAW 5 – FINANCIAL AFFAIRS be recommitted to the Finance Committee and that the Finance Committee engage in an extensive consultation from all affected groups and communities.
In Favour: 30 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 1 Abstained: Guarna Motion Passes Vote to Recommit Passes Unanimously 2.
OPERATING POLICY 2.2 – EMPLOYMENT WAGES
Moved by Milani, seconded by A. D’Angela that the Assembly recess for 15 minutes.
A. D’Angela suggested that it would better to finish Committee Business and start fresh into Business. Milani withdrew the motion.
Moved by Pullen that the SRA approve changes to OPERATING POLICY 2.2 - EMPLOYMENT WAGES, as circulated and attached.
Pullen went over the memo with the Assembly. Gillis stated that the MSU should be ashamed that they are paying students the wage of $10.80 per hour.
Vote on Motion In Favour: 30 Opposed: 1 Abstentions: 0 Opposed: Gillis Motion Passes BUSINESS 1.
Recess for meeting of MSU Incorporated
Moved by Campbell, seconded by Milani that the Assembly recess for a meeting of MSU Incorporated. Vote on Motion In Favour: 29 Opposed: 1 Abstentions: 0 Opposed: MacKinnon Motion Passes Recessed at 9:56 pm Called to Order at 10:44 pm
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CALL OF THE ROLL Present
Absent Excused Absent Late Others Present
Chair 2.
Abbas, Abdelrahman, Brodka, Campbell, Candemir, A. D’Angela, D. D’Angela, Dicenzo, D’Mello, Doucet, Garasia, Gillis, Graham, Guarna, Harper, Jeyasingham, Leslie, Long, Loewig, MacKinnon, Mallon, Milani, Morrow, Narro Perez, Palczewski, Paul, Pullen, Rheaume, Sparrow, Wolwowicz Tichenkov Miranda Clayton (McMaster Marching Band), Jacqueline Nowoselski (McMaster Marching Band), Ruth Green (Westdale Resident), Kathryn Chan (EWB), Stephen Woo (EWB), Souzan Mirza (EWB), Alexandra Sproule (SASS Observer), David Drake (McMaster Solar Car Project), David Rios (MSU Member), Abed Wahoush (MSU Member), Dave Moore (MSUAA), Gabriel Cicchi (MSU Member), Carly Hunter (YCL), Teddy Saul (self), Jacob Klugsberg (TAC Coordinator), Lindsey Huff (Chief Returning Officer), Krystina Ali (SOCS), Nathaniel Loranger (OPIRG), Mel Napeloni (OPIRG), Ana Qarri (Diversity Services Assistant Director), Timothy Swampillai (EWB), Randy Kay (OPIRG), Sam Godfrey (Incite Magazine/The Silhouette), Kojo Damptey (OPIRG), Amina Suhruraty (OPIRG), Yuvreet Kaur (OPIRG), Alish Sundergi (OPIRG), Shelley Porteous (OPIRG), Rebecca McDougall (Advocacy Coordinator), Inemesit Etokudo (Maroons Coordinator), Scott Hastie (The Silhouette), John McGowan (MSU General Manager), Kyle Johansen (MAPS Acting Executive Director), Victoria Scott (Recording Secretary) Maria Daniel
Close SRA Seat for Women and Trans Centre Ad-Hoc Committee
Moved by Milani, seconded by Harper that the Assembly close nominations for one (1) SRA member on the Women & Trans Centre Ad-Hoc Committee.
Milani explained that she would like to close the seat to have a full committee.
Nominations Pullen Vote on Motion In Favour: 28 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 1 Abstained: Pullen Motion Passes 3.
Caucus YEARplans
Moved by A. D’Angela, seconded by Doucet that the Assembly approve the following Caucus YEARplans: Humanities, and Social Sciences.
A. D’Angela explained that these are late coming forward, but would like to get them passed.
Vote on Motion Passes Unanimously 4.
Open Seat for MSU Member on Standing Committee
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Moved by Narro Perez, seconded by Guarna that the Assembly open nominations for one (1) MSU Member on the University Affairs Committee.
Narro Perez explained that the member withdrew and now they need to fill the seat. He encouraged everyone to advertise the opening of the seat. A. D’Angela asked when the meetings were. Narro Perez responded that they are held Thursdays at 5 pm.
Nominations Guarna nominated David Rios Vote on Motion Passes Unanimously
5.
Open Seats for SRA Members on Standing Committees: Finance (2) and Services (1)
Moved by D. D’Angela, seconded by Brodka that the Assembly open nominations for SRA members on the following Standing Committees: Finance (2) Services (1) Nominations Paul nominated Rheaume for Finance – accepted Mallon nominated Wolwowicz for Finance – accepted
Brodka announced that the meetings for the Services Committee are on Fridays from 12:30-1:30pm. D. D’Angela announced that meetings for the Finance Committee are at 11:30 on Fridays in the MSU Boardroom.
Vote on Motion In Favour: 29 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 0 Motion Passes 6.
Open Seat for MSU member on Other Committee
Moved by Pullen, seconded by Morrow that the Assembly open nominations for one (1) MSU Member on the Elections Committee.
Pullen stated that they need a full committee.
Vote on Motion Passes Unanimously 7.
Open Seat for SRA Member on Ad-Hoc Committee on Democratic Reform
Moved by Gillis, seconded by Graham that the Assembly open nominations for one (1) SRA member on the Ad-Hoc Committee on Democratic Reform.
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A. D’Angela asked when the meetings were held. Gillis responded that they are currently meeting from 12:30-1:30 pm on Wednesdays, but it may change depending on members’ schedules.
Nominations Paul nominated D. D’Angela - Accepted Vote on Motion In Favour: 28 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 1 Abstained: D. D’Angela Motion Passes TIME OF NEXT MEETING October 20, 2013 6:30pm Council Chambers, GH 111 CALL OF THE ROLL Present
Absent Excused Absent Late Others Present
Chair
Abbas, Abdelrahman, Brodka, Campbell, Candemir, A. D’Angela, D. D’Angela, Dicenzo, D’Mello, Doucet, Garasia, Gillis, Graham, Guarna, Harper, Jeyasingham, Leslie, Long, Loewig, MacKinnon, Mallon, Milani, Morrow, Narro Perez, Palczewski, Paul, Pullen, Rheaume, Sparrow, Wolwowicz Tichenkov Alexandra Sproule (SASS Observer), David Rios (MSU Member), Abed Wahoush (MSU Member), Dave Moore (MSUAA), Gabriel Cicchi (MSU Member), Carly Hunter (YCL), Teddy Saul (self), Jacob Klugsberg (TAC Coordinator), Lindsey Huff (Chief Returning Officer), Krystina Ali (SOCS), Ana Qarri (Diversity Services Assistant Director), Sam Godfrey (Incite Magazine/The Silhouette), Rebecca McDougall (Advocacy Coordinator), Inemesit Etokudo (Maroons Coordinator), Scott Hastie (The Silhouette), John McGowan (MSU General Manager), Victoria Scott (Recording Secretary) Maria Daniel
ADJOURNMENT Moved by Morrow, seconded by Mallon that the meeting adjourn. Motion Passes by General Consent Adjourned at 10:56 pm /vs
Called to Order at 6:38 pm CALL OF THE ROLL Present
Absent Excused Absent Late Others Present
Chair
Abbas, Abdelrahman, Brodka, Campbell, Candemir, A. D’Angela, D. D’Angela, Dicenzo, D’Mello, Doucet, Garasia, Gillis, Graham, Guarna, Harper, Jeyasingham, Leslie, Long, MacKinnon, Mallon, Morrow, Narro Perez, Palczewski, Paul, Pullen, Rheaume, Sparrow, Tichenkov, Wolwowicz
Loewig, Milani Miranda Clayton (McMaster Marching Band), Jacqueline Nowoselski (McMaster Marching Band), Ruth Green (Westdale Resident), Kathryn Chan (EWB), Stephen Woo (EWB), Souzan Mirza (EWB), Alexandra Sproule (SASS Observer), David Drake (McMaster Solar Car Project), David Rios (MSU Member), Abed Wahoush (MSU Member), Dave Moore (MSUAA), Gabriel Cicchi (MSU Member), Carly Hunter (YCL), Teddy Saul (self), Jacob Klugsberg (TAC Coordinator), Lindsey Huff (Chief Returning Officer), Krystina Ali (SOCS), Nathaniel Loranger (OPIRG), Mel Napeloni (OPIRG), Ana Qarri (Diversity Services Assistant Director), Timothy Swampillai (EWB), Randy Kay (OPIRG), Sam Godfrey (Incite Magazine/The Silhouette), Kojo Damptey (OPIRG), Amina Suhruraty (OPIRG), Yuvreet Kaur (OPIRG), Alish Sundergi (OPIRG), Victoria Scott (Recording Secretary) Maria Daniel
ADOPTION OF AGENDA Moved by Graham, seconded by Sparrow that the agenda be adopted as amended. Amendments Moved by Sparrow, seconded by Tichenkov to move Committee Business before Business.
Sparrow explained that there are a lot of people to present for Bylaw 5 – Financial Affairs, so the section should be moved to hear these concerns sooner.
Vote on Amendment In Favour: 28 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 0 Motion Passes Moved by Gillis, seconded by Campbell to add “Open Nominations for SRA seat on Ad-Hoc Committee on Democratic Reform” to Business. Passes Unanimously Moved by D. D’Angela, seconded by Brodka to add “Open Seats for SRA Members on Standing Committees: Finance (2) and Services (1)” to Business Passes Unanimously
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Vote to Adopt Agenda Passes by General Consent ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
The Speaker announced that there was a request for a ruling on whether or not regrets that are submitted after an SRA meeting from which a member of the Assembly was absent would be accepted. The ruling of the Speaker is as follows: Regrets that are submitted after an SRA meeting from which a member of the Assembly was absent will not be accepted. The Speaker reminded the Assembly that the members are asked address all remarks through the Chair, and that should members wish to rise on a point or order or privilege, to please wait to be recognized by the Chair before proceeding. The Speaker also asked that during debate to please confine comments to the merits of the pending question only. The Speaker also noted that the Observers List was being circulated, and could all Observers please fill this out with the relevant information.
ADOPTION OF MINUTES Moved by Mallon, seconded by D. D’Angela that the Assembly adopt the minutes from SRA 13F – September 15, 2013 as presented. In Favour: 30 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 0 Motion Passes DELEGATIONS FROM THE FLOOR Set Parameters for Delegations Moved by Campbell, seconded by Guarna to set parameters for Delegations from the Floor to be 10 minutes for presenting, and five minutes for questions each. Passes Unanimously 1.
OPIRG-McMaster – Randy Kay and Alecia Sundergi presented (presentation attached)
OPIRG went over their presentation with the Assembly.
Questions Rheaume asked if the AGM was open to McMaster students, and what was the seating capacity of the room where it was held. Sundergi responded that it was open to everyone. Kay replied that that it was held in a room in Togo Salmon Hall, and they didn’t know the seat capacity. Sundergi added that they usually try to get students out by offering incentives. Brodka asked them to share the average number of those who have opted-out of the fees from previous years. Kay responded that around 747 students opted out. Morrow asked what type of promotion they use for the opt-out. Kay responded that they advertise it on the MSU and the McMaster websites and it is put in the Almanac, the Welcome Week preview, and the Silhouette. Guarna asked if they considered increasing the monetary contribution to the working groups. Kay responded that it’s amazing how little money it takes for students to fill the mandate, but some need more funding so the groups can apply for it. Sundergi explained that OPIRG isn’t just about money, it’s about supporting the community.
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2.
Engineers Without Borders – McMaster – Kathryn Chan and Alexandra Sproule presented (presentation attached)
EWB went over their presentation with the Assembly.
Moved by Sparrow, seconded by Graham to allow the presentation to exceed the time limit until it was finished. Passes Unanimously Questions Graham asked them to speak to their governance structure and how to get involved. Chan responded that they hold their elections in March for the next year’s executive. She added that anyone can join and try to advertise as much as possible. Graham asked if any student could run for EWB President. Chan responded that they could. Klugsberg asked if they receive external funding other than the student levy. Chan responded that they do receive money from the Faculty of Engineering and through fundraising. She added that they sometimes get donations from external groups. REPORT PERIOD 1.
Health Sciences Caucus – Harper presented
2.
Harper summarized the report. Humanities Caucus – Wolwowicz presented
Wolwowicz summarized the report.
Questions Abbas asked what the task groups were. Wolwowicz responded that there is one for community involvement, first year experience, beyond first year, and reimagining and re-visioning Humanities. Abbas asked if this will be made public to the SRA. Wolwowicz responded that he could do that, and will try to find the reports. 3.
Kinesiology - no report
4.
Operations Commissioner – Pullen presented
5.
Pullen summarized the report. She explained that the meeting time has changed, please take note. Finance Commissioner – D. D’Angela presented
6.
D. D’Angela summarized the report. Executive Board – Milani presented
7.
Milani summarized the report. Vice-President (Administration) - A. D’Angela
A. D’Angela summarized the report.
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INFORMATION PERIOD
Sparrow informed the Assembly that the Solar Car Project has announced that they are working on achieving highway speeds, and that this group would be one of those affected by Bylaw 5. D. D’Angela ceded to David Drake. Drake thanked Sparrow for mentioning the Solar Car project. He stated that they have also been working on a series of tutorials that are held four days a week. He thanked everyone for bringing this up and allowing him to speak. Campbell informed the Assembly that often conversations at the SRA level are heated, and that disagreement is good but sometimes it occasionally goes beyond that. He addressed a post that was made by a student on Facebook, and stated that when he read it he was disheartened. Campbell explained that sometimes you get exposed and criticized when going into a public position, but that it comes with the job. He wanted to encourage the SRA to make sure that they argue points critically and not attack personally, and to try and stick to the issues. Doucet informed the Assembly that the opt-out for the MSU Health and Dental plans closes tomorrow. He asked everyone to please promote this. He stated that the Sponsorship & Donations Committee has been meeting regularly. Doucet informed the Assembly that he has been trying to get a polling station on campus for the For Ward 1 initiative. A. D’Angela commended the Arts & Science and Health Sciences Caucuses for having their VLOGS up on the website. She explained that all VLOGS needs to be in by the end of September. Paul informed the Assembly that Social Sciences Society is having a State of the Union and will be talking about plans and the annual budget. Information will be posted on the MSSS website. Graham informed the Assembly that OUSA General Assembly will be held November 1-3 and he will be choosing delegates to attend. This week Advocacy ran the edYOUcation campaign during Quality of Education Week. It was a big success; they had over 100 users for the online chat with the Provost and President of McMaster University. Graham added that they do have plans for the puzzle pieces after. Pullen ceded to Sam Godfrey. Godfrey reported that she was one of the Editors of Incite Magazine, one of the groups that would be affected by the amendments to Bylaw 5. She explained that Incite is an alternative magazine that comes out six times a year. Godfrey stated that the magazine is all volunteer run, and a lot of students are interested in helping out. Abdelrahman ceded to Miranda Clayton. Clayton announced to the Assembly that she does not agree that repeated referendums are the way to being fiscally responsible. Referendums take a lot of time and work, and she disagreed with the fact that this would be the only way to be fair. She added that if Bylaw 5 passed, the groups affected may not be able to budget long-term and they need to do so to thrive as a group. Clayton stated that the changes to Bylaw 5 have the right intentions but that it should be looked at again. Huff reported the Electoral Schedule. She stated that the report will be up on the Elections website. Harper ceded to Ruth Green. Green announced that it was privilege being there at the meeting. She stated that as a past member of the OPIRG Board, it was a moving experience for her to see young people who are dedicated to their community and being involved in a positive way. Green stated that she agrees with the transparency that everyone is looking for but to please consider how it will be done. She explained that from the perspective as a community member, she can only see integrity and that the organization is the heart and soul of the community and would hate to see them disappear for lack of funding.
QUESTION PERIOD
Gillis asked the Board to respond to an article in the Silhouette about raising tuition. He was wondering if there was consensus amongst the Board. Graham responded that he wasn’t sure what Gillis was asking but that he can speak to the drive behind the campaign and why they put it together. The campaign is ‘You’ve Paid Enough’ and it’s being run by the Advocacy Street Team. This was meant to highlight unfair fees that students are paying in their courses, as they are only supposed to be paying of what is outlined in the Ministry guideline. Graham added that there is a new tuition framework as well, where it has been
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lowered to three per cent. Graham stated that this wasn’t optimal but it was progress. Under the OUSA policy there is still a strong stance on freezing tuition. Moore asked if anyone could inform him if the 2010, 2011, and 2012 Marmors have been mailed out. Doucet explained that he didn’t have an answer at that time. Harper asked if there was any information on reporting services on fees. Graham explained that six per cent have reported, and they are currently going through the reports and following up with the appropriate people
Moved by Milani, seconded by Morrow that the Assembly recess for 10 minutes. In Favour: 20 Opposed: 2 Abstentions: 2 Abstained: MacKinnon, Jeyasingham Motion Passes Recessed at 7:57 pm Called to Order at 8:09 pm CALL OF THE ROLL Present
Absent Excused Absent Late Others Present
Chair
Abdelrahman, Brodka, Campbell, Candemir, A. D’Angela, D. D’Angela, Dicenzo, D’Mello, Doucet, Garasia, Gillis, Graham, Guarna, Harper, Jeyasingham, Leslie, Long, MacKinnon, Mallon, Milani, Morrow, Narro Perez, Palczewski, Paul, Pullen, Rheaume, Tichenkov, Wolwowicz
Abbas, Loewig, Sparrow Miranda Clayton (McMaster Marching Band), Jacqueline Nowoselski (McMaster Marching Band), Ruth Green (Westdale Resident), Kathryn Chan (EWB), Stephen Woo (EWB), Souzan Mirza (EWB), Alexandra Sproule (SASS Observer), David Drake (McMaster Solar Car Project), David Rios (MSU Member), Abed Wahoush (MSU Member), Dave Moore (MSUAA), Gabriel Cicchi (MSU Member), Carly Hunter (YCL), Teddy Saul (self), Jacob Klugsberg (TAC Coordinator), Lindsey Huff (Chief Returning Officer), Krystina Ali (SOCS), Nathaniel Loranger (OPIRG), Mel Napeloni (OPIRG), Ana Qarri (Diversity Services Assistant Director), Timothy Swampillai (EWB), Randy Kay (OPIRG), Sam Godfrey (Incite Magazine/The Silhouette), Kojo Damptey (OPIRG), Amina Suhruraty (OPIRG), Yuvreet Kaur (OPIRG), Alish Sundergi (OPIRG), Shelley Porteous (OPIRG), Rebecca McDougall (Advocacy Coordinator), Inemesit Etokudo (Maroons Coordinator), Scott Hastie (The Silhouette), John McGowan (MSU General Manager), Kyle Johansen (MAPS Acting Executive Director), Victoria Scott (Recording Secretary) Maria Daniel
COMMITTEE BUSINESS 1.
BYLAW 5 - FINANCIAL AFFAIRS
Moved by Campbell, seconded by Doucet to set parameters for discussion at 40 minutes.
Campbell explained that he doesn’t mean to limit the discussion, but that the intention was to make everyone conscious of the time. There can always be a motion to extend the discussion if needed.
Vote on Parameters In Favour: 25 Opposed: 5 Abstentions: 1
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Opposed: Milani, Abbas, Abdelrahman, Sparrow, Gillis Abstained: Pullen Motion Passes Moved by D. D’Angela that the SRA approve the changes to BYLAW 5 – FINANCIAL AFFAIRS, as circulated and attached.
D. D’Angela went over the memo and bylaw changes with the Assembly. Doucet thanked everyone who came to partake in the discussions, and to those who presented to the SRA. He spoke to why he asked the Finance Committee to do this, and it was due to meeting with members of the Department of Finance from McMaster University. They were discussing issues pertinent to student fees, and they had a lot of questions of who the student groups were and what they did. The department was trying to infer that these fees were for MSU groups, and were asking about their activities and how the money was spent. When told that they weren’t MSU groups ,the department was put on the defensive and was concerned about the amount of money being paid without the knowledge of spending and publicly available budget. The University finds it troubling because they can’t see how the money is being spent. Doucet stated that some of the groups haven’t even picked up their money over the years and yet students are still paying these fees. Doucet felt that this would be the best option to pursue financial accountability and transparency, but did mention that he was open to other ideas and solutions. He added that he disagreed with the notion that a referendum passed in the 1990’s should be passed on to students and still be binding in 2020. Sparrow stated that he received a lot of letters from students and their concerns about this. He stated that there were a lot of concerns about transparency but there aren’t any concerns about being transparent from these groups. All the student groups are in favour of working on solutions if needed. He felt that the process wasn’t transparent as some of the groups felt that they weren’t consulted about this. He felt that the students should be consulted about the fees being collected from them but it should also be up to the students to decide when this takes place. Sparrow felt that having a referendum every three years doesn’t allow them to focus on their issues. Sparrow stated that the students had a referendum in 1979 for the MSU and they still collect that fee. He pointed out that the MSU isn’t free from financial transparency as they had a campus bar that was renovated and still keeps losing money. He encouraged the SRA to vote the changes down and let actual consultation happen. Jeyasingham felt that the first misconception of a referendum question would be just a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question. He explained that it would be up to the SRA or the Elections Committee to decide what the question would be, and they can make it so that there is more than one option. Jeyasingham clarified that the bylaw won’t be giving any power to the Vice-President (Finance) and Finance Commissioner to control the funding of the groups. He explained that section 4 of the bylaw is just to ensure that the groups have reporting standards. Abdelrahman asked if they really thought that transparency issues will be resolved by a referendum. He stated that he didn’t see that happening. He didn’t have an answer on how to resolve the situation but added that these organizations should have been consulted on this. Most of the groups felt that there wasn’t enough time to get items put together for this motion. He asked for this to be put back to the committee and have them consult the groups properly. Milani wanted D. D’Angela to respond to the allegations brought up against him for not consulting these groups. She ceded her remaining time to him. D. D’Angela explained that he consulted with each group at the beginning of the summer, and based on their answers the Finance Committee came up with the changes. Klugsberg stated that he was impressed with the presentations but felt that the purpose of the bylaw had been misconstrued. He felt that it wasn’t up to the SRA to decide who gets the funding; it’s about a democracy and the decision going to the students who pay these fees. Klugsberg felt that the only way to give students a voice would be to go to referendum. Guarna felt that they could do better, and that the students deserve to be heard. She understood though that it would be difficult to get the word out. Guarna stated that they need to take steps in order to hold these organizations accountable to the fees that they are receiving.
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Sproule felt that EWB or other groups didn’t get a chance to give any feedback on the bylaw itself and wanted to express their views. She explained that they would have preferred to be told about this before it happened. She asked for this to be sent back to committee or not be passed at all. Gillis explained that the Finance Commissioner came to the Bylaws and Procedures meeting stated that he consulted with each of the groups. Gillis stated that the Finance Commissioner explained that this wouldn’t be a burden on the groups at all, yet the groups are stating that they didn’t feel as though they were consulted. Pullen ceded to Kathryn Chan. Chan felt that the referendum wouldn’t be the best way to give students a voice as there wouldn’t be space on the ballot to voice their thoughts or opinions on the matter. She hoped that they find a solution that is beneficial to everyone.
Moved by Campbell, seconded by A. D’Angela to extend the discussion by 20 minutes. Passes Unanimously Discussion on Main Motion Jeyasingham explained that he had a problem with people thinking that referendums are ineffective. He pointed out that all of the fees were approved by referendum in the first place, and now the groups are criticizing the process of the referendum. Jeyasingham wanted to know why it was effective before, but not now. Jeyasingham stated that he represents over 700 Health Sciences students and felt that they would love the opportunity to decide whether they would like to pay a fee or not. He added that there are a lot of concerns that a referendum could lead to defunding, but he wanted to know why these groups think they felt they would be defunded. He felt that students are smart and can make smart decisions. Pullen wondered if according to the bylaws or general referendum rules that the choice of ‘no’ would have to be on the referendum. Jeyasingham responded that the interpretation of the bylaws is up to the Speaker. He felt that since the SRA would be deciding on the question when putting forth a motion they could possibly leave out the option of ‘no’. He explained that MSU referendums always give students the option of ‘no’ to see what the students’ opinions are. Abdelrahman ceded to David Rios. Rios stated that these fees exist because students were willing to pay for fees if they were relevant to the student body. The referendum would keep this relevant, as some student may not want to pay for some fees that were passed 18 years ago. Rios pointed out that he kept hearing about a fear of a referendum, but he felt that if something didn’t pass that meant that students don’t want to pay for those fees. This shouldn’t be about the SRA and the groups, but should be about the student body. D’Mello ceded to Kathryn Chan. Chan appreciated the comments about the referendum, but stated that she would like to focus on the larger issue at hand and that would be the groups doing valuable things for students. She felt that the referendum would affect that, and would take away time from the things that they would like to do. Chan stated that EWB would be more interested in holding forums and having conversations with students. D. D’Angela clarified that section 4 of the Bylaw is not to bring fees to referendum every year. It states that it would have to go to the SRA if there were any problems in the third-party group. He explained that this being brought up as an attack on groups each year is incorrect. This is not an effort to defund on all groups but just asking that every three years this would go to the students to ask them if they would like to continue to pay those fees. Mallon felt that having a referendum once every three years isn’t that hard for groups to prove to students that their fee is worth students to pay for. He added that if the referendum does fail then the onus is on the organization as students may feel they weren’t informed and/or felt that the organization wasn’t relevant to their student life at university. D. D’Angela stated that the Committee looked at different models in place at other universities and the one they are basing it off of was at Queen’s University. He added that at some schools there are hundreds of dollars in fees but over 92% of the groups who received funding were reapproved. Some schools have
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opt-outs online for items like this. He stated that it wasn’t fair to students to not give them a voice on where their money was going. Guarna ceded to Kathryn Chan. Chan stated that she disagreed about referendums being the place for student voices being heard. She felt that not everyone turns out for them. The results aren’t necessarily a reflection of how students feel.
Moved by Campbell, seconded by Morrow to extend the discussion by 15 minutes. Amendment to Parameters Moved by Milani, seconded by Gillis to continue the discussion indefinitely. Discussion on Amendment to Parameters Milani explained that they should just let everyone have a chance to speak and not limit debate. Doucet explained that the timing wasn’t in the spirit of limiting debate, it was making it a time control mechanism. Campbell disagreed with the idea of limiting the discussion as being undemocratic if they do it democratically. Vote on Amendment In Favour: 4 Opposed: 18 Abstentions: 4 Opposed: Campbell, Doucet, Graham, Loewig, Leslie, Morrow, Garasia, Guarna, Brodka, Narro Perez, D’Mello, MacKinnon, Jeyasingham, Harper, Pullen, Palczewski, Mallon, Long Abstained: Wolwowicz, Abbas, Candemir, Abdelrahman Motion Fails Amendment to Parameters Moved by Gillis, seconded by Milani to extend the discussion by 30 minutes.
Gillis explained that he didn’t think 15 minutes The Mover and Seconder found the motion to be friendly
Parameters Moved by Campbell, seconded by Morrow to extend the discussion by 30 minutes.
Abbas explained that while he appreciated what Campbell was trying to do, but having the discussion being shortened each time makes them have to keep extending the discussion. This maintains the spirit of the discussion.
Vote on Parameters Passes Unanimously
Milani felt that they were having a great informed discussion but that she would like to move a motion for Bylaw 5 to be brought back to the Finance Committee to look over.
Moved by Milani, seconded by Campbell that BYLAW 5 – FINANCIAL AFFAIRS be brought to the Finance Committee to include individual MSU fees in Section 3 to ensure these fees are brought to referendum every three years. Discussion to Recommit Milani felt that this conversation would have more of an impact. They are not holding themselves to a standard if this doesn’t happen.
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Campbell explained that he was hoping to recommit the discussion, and suggests that if they do so they focus to get more feedback. He stated that they shouldn’t be limiting the Finance Committee by requiring them to bring this back with MSU fees, as it undermines the discussion they just had. Sparrow explained that he liked the idea of all fees or not fees, but would prefer if they just voted down the original motion and to come up with something else.
Amendment Moved by Doucet, seconded by Rheaume that BYLAW 5 – FINANCIAL AFFAIRS be recommitted to the Finance Committee. Discussion on Amendment Doucet explained that the intention was to see if there were concerns or other ideas on how to get input from the groups. He believed there have been significant discussions with legitimate concerns. He stated that recommitting this back to the Finance Committee would be appropriate. Rheaume agreed with the motion so that other solutions can be reviewed. He stated that in the spirit of transparency they should look at the alternative of striking the proposed tri-annual referendum and granting students the power to opt-out of any or all third-party fees for a period of four weeks during term one. This would give everyone a chance to discuss and could avoid an all or none solution or risking being defunded. Sparrow felt that the problem was the amount of consultation done. Campbell asked if the motion itself was recommitted back to the Finance Committee do they have the option of bringing it back the exact way it was presented today. The Speaker stated that they could. Campbell explained that some sort of amendment would be good, and that the ambiguity is over whether a referendum is the best way to be transparent. He stated that they are probably not going to be able to resolve this right now and that it would be better held at the Finance Committee. More consultation needs to be done, and the Committee meetings are open for anyone to attend. Amendment to the Amendment Moved by Sparrow that the motion read “Moved by Doucet, seconded by Rheaume that Bylaw 5 – Financial Affairs be recommitted to the Finance Committee and that the Finance Committee engage in an extensive consultation from all affected groups and communities.”
The amendment to the amendment was friendly with the Mover and Seconder of the original amendment.
Discussion on Amendment Sproule stated that it would be useful to explained what consultation means as it could mean different things to different people. She asked if there would be a limited time for consultation as it would be useful for the external groups to understand the process and give input. Palczewski ceded to Krystina Ali. Ali asked what was actively being done to help if this bylaw passed. Jeyasingham stated that he was in favour of committing it back to the Finance Committee but felt that when they made the amendment to include consultation, it was vague. He explained that different people have different ideas and what if groups didn’t respond to the consultation requests, and if it wasn’t extensive enough. Jeyasingham stated that when this gets brought back to the Assembly the consultation would have to be considered, and felt that it wasn’t necessary to put that as part of the amendment. D. D’Angela ceded to David Rios. Rios stated that the amendment makes this a SRA group issue, and it’s supposed to be a SRA and Student Body issue. He didn’t see the need to amend the amendment. Guarna felt that they were losing sight of the original heart of the bylaw. While she agreed with the element of consultation she suggested just sending the groups a version of the bylaw crafted. She agreed with Rios stating that it was an issue of the student body and that they were losing sight of the original focus, which was giving transparency.
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Sparrow stated that it was up to the SRA to decide if the proper consultation took place and that if they determined it wasn’t enough they can send it back to the Committee again. Doucet explained that they were all getting caught up on the wording of the motion. He encouraged all SRA members to speak to their concerns, and felt as though everyone was in agreement that this should be going back to committee.
Vote on Amendment Moved by Doucet, seconded by Rheaume that BYLAW 5 – FINANCIAL AFFAIRS be recommitted to the Finance Committee and that the Finance Committee engage in an extensive consultation from all affected groups and communities.
In Favour: 30 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 1 Abstained: Guarna Motion Passes Vote to Recommit Passes Unanimously 2.
OPERATING POLICY 2.2 – EMPLOYMENT WAGES
Moved by Milani, seconded by A. D’Angela that the Assembly recess for 15 minutes.
A. D’Angela suggested that it would better to finish Committee Business and start fresh into Business. Milani withdrew the motion.
Moved by Pullen that the SRA approve changes to OPERATING POLICY 2.2 - EMPLOYMENT WAGES, as circulated and attached.
Pullen went over the memo with the Assembly. Gillis stated that the MSU should be ashamed that they are paying students the wage of $10.80 per hour.
Vote on Motion In Favour: 30 Opposed: 1 Abstentions: 0 Opposed: Gillis Motion Passes BUSINESS 1.
Recess for meeting of MSU Incorporated
Moved by Campbell, seconded by Milani that the Assembly recess for a meeting of MSU Incorporated. Vote on Motion In Favour: 29 Opposed: 1 Abstentions: 0 Opposed: MacKinnon Motion Passes Recessed at 9:56 pm Called to Order at 10:44 pm
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CALL OF THE ROLL Present
Absent Excused Absent Late Others Present
Chair 2.
Abbas, Abdelrahman, Brodka, Campbell, Candemir, A. D’Angela, D. D’Angela, Dicenzo, D’Mello, Doucet, Garasia, Gillis, Graham, Guarna, Harper, Jeyasingham, Leslie, Long, Loewig, MacKinnon, Mallon, Milani, Morrow, Narro Perez, Palczewski, Paul, Pullen, Rheaume, Sparrow, Wolwowicz Tichenkov Miranda Clayton (McMaster Marching Band), Jacqueline Nowoselski (McMaster Marching Band), Ruth Green (Westdale Resident), Kathryn Chan (EWB), Stephen Woo (EWB), Souzan Mirza (EWB), Alexandra Sproule (SASS Observer), David Drake (McMaster Solar Car Project), David Rios (MSU Member), Abed Wahoush (MSU Member), Dave Moore (MSUAA), Gabriel Cicchi (MSU Member), Carly Hunter (YCL), Teddy Saul (self), Jacob Klugsberg (TAC Coordinator), Lindsey Huff (Chief Returning Officer), Krystina Ali (SOCS), Nathaniel Loranger (OPIRG), Mel Napeloni (OPIRG), Ana Qarri (Diversity Services Assistant Director), Timothy Swampillai (EWB), Randy Kay (OPIRG), Sam Godfrey (Incite Magazine/The Silhouette), Kojo Damptey (OPIRG), Amina Suhruraty (OPIRG), Yuvreet Kaur (OPIRG), Alish Sundergi (OPIRG), Shelley Porteous (OPIRG), Rebecca McDougall (Advocacy Coordinator), Inemesit Etokudo (Maroons Coordinator), Scott Hastie (The Silhouette), John McGowan (MSU General Manager), Kyle Johansen (MAPS Acting Executive Director), Victoria Scott (Recording Secretary) Maria Daniel
Close SRA Seat for Women and Trans Centre Ad-Hoc Committee
Moved by Milani, seconded by Harper that the Assembly close nominations for one (1) SRA member on the Women & Trans Centre Ad-Hoc Committee.
Milani explained that she would like to close the seat to have a full committee.
Nominations Pullen Vote on Motion In Favour: 28 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 1 Abstained: Pullen Motion Passes 3.
Caucus YEARplans
Moved by A. D’Angela, seconded by Doucet that the Assembly approve the following Caucus YEARplans: Humanities, and Social Sciences.
A. D’Angela explained that these are late coming forward, but would like to get them passed.
Vote on Motion Passes Unanimously 4.
Open Seat for MSU Member on Standing Committee
SRA 13G Page 12 September 29, 2013
Moved by Narro Perez, seconded by Guarna that the Assembly open nominations for one (1) MSU Member on the University Affairs Committee.
Narro Perez explained that the member withdrew and now they need to fill the seat. He encouraged everyone to advertise the opening of the seat. A. D’Angela asked when the meetings were. Narro Perez responded that they are held Thursdays at 5 pm.
Nominations Guarna nominated David Rios Vote on Motion Passes Unanimously
5.
Open Seats for SRA Members on Standing Committees: Finance (2) and Services (1)
Moved by D. D’Angela, seconded by Brodka that the Assembly open nominations for SRA members on the following Standing Committees: Finance (2) Services (1) Nominations Paul nominated Rheaume for Finance – accepted Mallon nominated Wolwowicz for Finance – accepted
Brodka announced that the meetings for the Services Committee are on Fridays from 12:30-1:30pm. D. D’Angela announced that meetings for the Finance Committee are at 11:30 on Fridays in the MSU Boardroom.
Vote on Motion In Favour: 29 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 0 Motion Passes 6.
Open Seat for MSU member on Other Committee
Moved by Pullen, seconded by Morrow that the Assembly open nominations for one (1) MSU Member on the Elections Committee.
Pullen stated that they need a full committee.
Vote on Motion Passes Unanimously 7.
Open Seat for SRA Member on Ad-Hoc Committee on Democratic Reform
Moved by Gillis, seconded by Graham that the Assembly open nominations for one (1) SRA member on the Ad-Hoc Committee on Democratic Reform.
SRA 13G Page 13 September 29, 2013
A. D’Angela asked when the meetings were held. Gillis responded that they are currently meeting from 12:30-1:30 pm on Wednesdays, but it may change depending on members’ schedules.
Nominations Paul nominated D. D’Angela - Accepted Vote on Motion In Favour: 28 Opposed: 0 Abstentions: 1 Abstained: D. D’Angela Motion Passes TIME OF NEXT MEETING October 20, 2013 6:30pm Council Chambers, GH 111 CALL OF THE ROLL Present
Absent Excused Absent Late Others Present
Chair
Abbas, Abdelrahman, Brodka, Campbell, Candemir, A. D’Angela, D. D’Angela, Dicenzo, D’Mello, Doucet, Garasia, Gillis, Graham, Guarna, Harper, Jeyasingham, Leslie, Long, Loewig, MacKinnon, Mallon, Milani, Morrow, Narro Perez, Palczewski, Paul, Pullen, Rheaume, Sparrow, Wolwowicz Tichenkov Alexandra Sproule (SASS Observer), David Rios (MSU Member), Abed Wahoush (MSU Member), Dave Moore (MSUAA), Gabriel Cicchi (MSU Member), Carly Hunter (YCL), Teddy Saul (self), Jacob Klugsberg (TAC Coordinator), Lindsey Huff (Chief Returning Officer), Krystina Ali (SOCS), Ana Qarri (Diversity Services Assistant Director), Sam Godfrey (Incite Magazine/The Silhouette), Rebecca McDougall (Advocacy Coordinator), Inemesit Etokudo (Maroons Coordinator), Scott Hastie (The Silhouette), John McGowan (MSU General Manager), Victoria Scott (Recording Secretary) Maria Daniel
ADJOURNMENT Moved by Morrow, seconded by Mallon that the meeting adjourn. Motion Passes by General Consent Adjourned at 10:56 pm /vs
