Constitutional Amendments: Difference between revisions
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The purpose of this page is to propose, discuss and decide on amendments to the Party's Constitution and Bylaws. Suggestions for amendments to a particular Article should be documented in the relevant section. It may simply be a concern or idea, or you can propose the actual amendment. Or if you don't like a proposed amendment, explain your objection and/or offer an alternative. | <p>The purpose of this page is to propose, discuss and decide on amendments to the Party's Constitution and Bylaws. Suggestions for amendments to a particular Article should be documented in the relevant section. It may simply be a concern or idea, or you can propose the actual amendment. Or if you don't like a proposed amendment, explain your objection and/or offer an alternative. | ||
</p><p>A preliminary draft of proposed amendments was published in the <a href="http://ontariolibertarian.ca/node/6711">summer 2019 issue of Bulletin</a>. | |||
A preliminary draft of proposed amendments was published in the | </p><p>Please add your signature to your entry. In the RichText Editor it is the 6th icon from the right in the top row. In the WikiText Editor it is the 2nd icon from the right. | ||
</p> | |||
Please add your signature to your entry. In the RichText Editor it is the 6th icon from the right in the top row. In the WikiText Editor it is the 2nd icon from the right. | <h1> Allen’s Preliminary Recommendations following 2018 General Election </h1> | ||
<p>Allen Small, Leader at the time of the 2018 General Election, made a number of recommendations based on his experience leading up to and during the Election. <a href="Exec:August 7, 2018 Minutes#Allen.E2.80.99s_Preliminary_Recommendations_following_2018_General_Election">His Recommendations </a> were presented at the August 7, 2018 Meeting. You can download his original document <a href="Allen%E2%80%99s_Preliminary_Recommendations_following_2018_General_Election.docx" class="internal" _fck_mw_filename="Allen%E2%80%99s_Preliminary_Recommendations_following_2018_General_Election.docx" _fck_mw_type="media" title="Allen’s Preliminary Recommendations following 2018 General Election.docx">here</a>. This was the prime motivation for creating a committee to draft amendments to the Party's Constitution and Bylaws for presentation at the Convention to be held in November 2019. | |||
</p><p>Allen's recommendations have the objective of, <b>"Protecting the fundamental purpose of the party by changing the way the Executive Committee and Candidates are selected."</b> See <a href="#Article_3_-_Purpose">Article 3</a> below. | |||
</p><p>The following is the text of his recommendations, divided as to recommendations that require amendments to the Constitution and/or Bylaws (Items 2 - 5, 7 and 8) or those which may be implemented by the Leader and Campaign Director for the next election or By-election (Items 1, 6 and 9). Two recommendations can be implemented by the Executive Committee (Items 8 and 10). | |||
Allen Small, Leader at the time of the 2018 General Election, made a number of recommendations based on his experience leading up to and during the Election. | |||
Allen's recommendations have the objective of, | |||
The following is the text of his recommendations, divided as to recommendations that require amendments to the Constitution and/or Bylaws (Items 2 - 5, 7 and 8) or those which may be implemented by the Leader and Campaign Director for the next election or By-election (Items 1, 6 and 9). Two recommendations can be implemented by the Executive Committee (Items 8 and 10). | |||
(Item 8 was split into two parts, assuming that the Campaign Director is to be a new voting Officer on the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may decide on Facebook ads, etc.) | (Item 8 was split into two parts, assuming that the Campaign Director is to be a new voting Officer on the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may decide on Facebook ads, etc.) | ||
</p><p>The items are renumbered below. | |||
The items are renumbered below. | </p> | ||
<h2> Recommendations requiring Amendments </h2> | |||
<ul><li> Allen's Item 2 - To Join the Party change the declaration to: | |||
<ul><li> To be a Member of the Party, select "I am for liberty, free markets, property rights and limited government.” | |||
</li><li> To be an Associate of the Party, select "I wish to be a non-voting Associate of the Party.” | |||
</li><li> See <a href="#Article_4_-_MEMBERSHIP_AND_ASSOCIATE_STATUS">Article 4</a> below | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li><li> Allen's Item 3 - To be eligible for election to the Party Executive Committee, a nominee must be a voting member of the Party for at least 60 days prior to an AGM or Convention. See <a href="#Article_6_-_EXECUTIVE_COMMITTEE">Article 6</a> below. | |||
</li><li> Allen's Item 4 - To be eligible for election as Leader or Deputy Leader, a nominee must have held a position on the Executive Committee for not less than one year. See <a href="#Article_6_-_EXECUTIVE_COMMITTEE">Article 6</a> below. | |||
</li><li> Allen's Item 5 - To be eligible for election to the Ethics Committee, a nominee must have held a position on the Executive Committee for not less than one year. See <a href="#Article_8_-_Ethics_Committee">Article 8</a> below. | |||
</li><li> Allen's Item 7 - Redefine the duties of the Officers of the Exec Comm. – prior to the next Convention. See <a href="#Article_6_-_EXECUTIVE_COMMITTEE">Article 6</a> below. | |||
</li><li> Allen's Item 8 - Create a Communications team led by a Communications Director to do Website updates, Facebook/Twitter ads/email answers – contact info etc. See <a href="#Article_6_-_EXECUTIVE_COMMITTEE">Article 6</a> below. | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<h2> Recommendations to be considered for implementation at the next election </h2> | |||
<ul><li> Allen's Item 7 - Qualifying/Endorsing/Vetting candidates – each prospective candidate requires the approval of at least of 1 member of the Exec. committee or 2 ordinary members of the Party who will vouch for them. | |||
<ul><li> this amendment will essentially eliminate the paper and parachute candidates that were used as an essential part of the 2018 campaign to reach a near full slate of candidates. --<a href="User:CMDavidson">CMDavidson</a> 19:45, 11 August 2019 (EDT) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li><li> Allen's Item 5 - To be a candidate: candidates must sign an updated version (needs to be updated) of the <a href="https://www.ontariolibertarian.ca/sites/ontariolibertarian.ca.d6/files/Candidate%20Application_0.pdf">Candidate Application Form</a> and accept terms of candidacy including posting rudimentary profile info including written disclosure of campaign plans to Campaign Director upon being accepted as candidate. Candidates must provide an active email address that must be posted on our website to allow for contact from media people or requests for campaign signs etc. especially during election periods. | |||
<ul><li> Jim had all candidates sign this updated version of the Candidate Application for the 2018 Election. It does not cover all of the items recommended above. However we have the candidate's email ID (and phone number) on CRM, and verified with the F0400 Nomination form. | |||
</li><li> Could have a volunteer interview each candidate (like a reporter) and draft their profiles. | |||
</li><li> Leaders notes - Campaign committee should be allowed to to determine | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li><li> Allen's Item 9 - Create teams in each region with sign posting responsibility during elections | |||
<ul><li> We assigned Regional Coordinators in 2014 (or earlier?). It may be essential to do so in 2022, especially of we don't have 3-4 people with lots of time to recruit, vet, collect signatures and get candidates registered. Posting signs could be one of their responsibilities. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 21:16, 23 March 2019 (EDT) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<h2> Recommendations to be considered by the Executive Committee </h2> | |||
<ol><li> Continue to buy Facebook page ads – build “likes”. Use Facebook groups to organize and message members. | |||
</li><li> Rent long term storage space for party materials/signs etc. somewhere in GTA. | |||
</li></ol> | |||
The following amendments were developed by the Constitutional Amendments Committee consisting of Rob Ferguson, George Dance, Andrew Allison, and Jim McIntosh during several Uber Conference Meetings during April and May, 2019 and via occasional emails. | <h1> Constitutional Amendments </h1> | ||
<p>The following amendments were developed by the Constitutional Amendments Committee consisting of Rob Ferguson, George Dance, Andrew Allison, and Jim McIntosh during several Uber Conference Meetings during April and May, 2019 and via occasional emails. | |||
</p> | |||
<h2> Article 3 - Purpose </h2> | |||
The purpose of the Party is to modify the political structure and social environment of Ontario to provide the greatest amount of freedom for individuals. To that end the Party shall:<br> | <p>The purpose of the Party is to modify the political structure and social environment of Ontario to provide the greatest amount of freedom for individuals. To that end the Party shall:<br /> | ||
a) engage in political activity such as the formation of constituency associations and the election of Party candidates to the Legislature;<br> | a) engage in political activity such as the formation of constituency associations and the election of Party candidates to the Legislature;<br /> | ||
b) disseminate information about the Libertarian philosophy;<br> | b) disseminate information about the Libertarian philosophy;<br /> | ||
c) support groups and individuals that are in agreement with Libertarian philosophy;<br> | c) support groups and individuals that are in agreement with Libertarian philosophy;<br /> | ||
d) co-operate with any group where Libertarian philosophy can be promoted without compromising principles. | d) co-operate with any group where Libertarian philosophy can be promoted without compromising principles. | ||
</p> | |||
<h2> Article 4 - MEMBERSHIP AND ASSOCIATE STATUS </h2> | |||
<ul><li><b>Replace Article 4, section 1</b> with the following -"Anyone who <strike>has signed\<i> </i></strike><i>accepts </i>the statement, "I am for individual liberty, <i>property rights, free markets and limited government</i>.” and has paid current membership dues, shall be a “Member” of the Party. [Words in <i>Italics</i> are new.] | |||
<ul><li>"Limited Government" may discourage An-Caps from becoming Members. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 20:03, 6 March 2019 (EST) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<ul><li><b>Replace Article 4, section 2</b> with the following - "Anyone who <strike>has signed</strike> <i>accepts </i>the statement, “I wish to be a <i>non-voting</i> Associate of the Ontario Libertarian Party,” and has paid current membership fees, shall be an Associate of the Party. [Words in <i>Italics</i> are new.] | |||
<ul><li>This will make clear the difference between a Member (who has the privileges described elsewhere) and Associate (who does not have these privileges).--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 21:50, 6 February 2019 (EST) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<h2> Article 5 - OFFICERS </h2> | |||
<ul><li> Allen's item 7 "Redefine the duties of the Officers of the Exec Comm. – prior to the next Convention." | |||
<ul><li>This will likely take at least an hour and we should not tackle it until everyone has read the <a _fcknotitle="true" href="Executive Standards">Executive Standards</a> on our Wiki. Not everything included in this document or items linked from it needs to be included in the Constitution (or Bylaws).--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 17:37, 6 March 2019 (EST) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<ul><li><b>Section 2</b> - "... The Chairman shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Party." | |||
<ul><li>Consideration - Corporations have <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/ceo.asp">CEOs</a>, paid managers and a <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/boardoftrustees.asp">Board</a> that sets direction for the corporation. I don't think our Chair is equivalent to a CEO, however we should consider adding some description of tasks or responsibilities. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 17:35, 6 March 2019 (EST) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<ul><li><b>Section 6 b)</b> The Treasurer shall serve as the Chief Financial Officer of the Party and shall be responsible for all obligations imposed on the Party by <strike>the Commission on Election Finances</strike> Elections Ontario. The term of the Chief Financial Officer shall coincide with the fiscal year of the party. | |||
<ul><li>The Commission on Election Finances was merged into Elections Ontario in 1998.--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 17:37, 6 March 2019 (EST) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li><li><b>Section 6 b)</b> The Treasurer shall serve as the Chief Financial Officer of the Party and shall be responsible for all obligations imposed on the Party by <strike>the Commission on Election Finances</strike> Elections Ontario. <strike>The term of the Chief Financial Officer shall coincide with the fiscal year of the party.</strike> <i>The Treasurer shall act as Chief Financial Officer from the beginning of the fiscal year of the party following his election or appointment until the beginning of the fiscal year following the election or appointment of his successor.</i> | |||
<ul><li>See my comments in Discussion. <a href="User:George Dance">George Dance</a> 15:53, 27 March 2019 (EDT) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<h2> Article 6 - EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE </h2> | |||
<ul><li><b>New section</b> - to be inserted between sections 1 and 2. <i>Any Member standing for election to the Executive Committee must have been a Member of the Party for at least 60 days.</i> The following sections to be renumbered. | |||
<ul><li>Item 3 in Allen Small's Recommendations, to ensure Members elected to the Executive Committee have some experience with the Party. This includes the Leader and Deputy Leader. However, it is moot if the amendment that the Leader and DL must have been members of the Executive for a year (Article 16). It could be added at the end of Article 5 - Officers.--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 17:38, 6 March 2019 (EST) | |||
</li><li>It may be advisable to require the Chairman and Treasurer to have had at least one year as a member of the Executive Committee. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 20:49, 23 March 2019 (EDT) | |||
</li><li>It was suggested that the Executive Committee could vote to overrule this rule to replace an Officer if a stronger candidate was presented. If it happened at a Convention or AGM, we would need to determine if the delegates could pass a motion to accept a candidate who doesn't meet this criteria. | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<ul><li>Allen's Item 7 - Redefine the duties of the Officers of the Exec Comm – prior to the next Convention. | |||
<ul><li>Many of the duties and suggestions are already defined in the <a _fcknotitle="true" href="Executive Standards">Executive Standards</a>. We would need to determine if any additions need to made to the Constitution or Bylaws. | |||
</li><li>Leaders notes, job descriptions development has started by members of the executive committee. Party chair should be at forehead of this task. | |||
</li><li>Might be appropriate for one of us to contact each member of the EC, read them their duties according to the Constitution, and ask if anything should be removed, added or clarified. Then do the same with the description in the Executive Standards. | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<ul><li>Allen's Item 8 - Create a Communications team led by a Communications Director to do Website updates, Facebook/Twitter ads/email answers – contact info etc. | |||
<ul><li>Leaders notes, executive committee encouragement of volunteers. Designate volunteers under Campaign Director with Chair support. | |||
The Executive Committee shall recognize, and apply to the <strike>Commission on Election Finances</strike>& | </li><li>Do we want to add another (voting) Officer to the Executive Committee? If so, we will need to define the role for the Constitution and add to the Executive Standards. | ||
</li><li>Jim McIntosh will define the possible list of responsibilities that would belong to the Communications Director.  | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
Allen's Item 5 - | <h2> Article 7 - CONSTITUENCY ASSOCIATIONS </h2> | ||
<p>The Executive Committee shall recognize, and apply to the <strike>Commission on Election Finances</strike> <i>Elections Ontario </i>to register as a Constituency Association, any properly constituted group which has held a meeting, adopted a constitution consistent with the Statement of Principles and Constitution of the Party, and met the necessary legal requirements. | |||
</p> | |||
<h2> Article 8 - Ethics Committee </h2> | |||
<p>Allen's Item 5 - <b>new section</b> - "To be eligible for election to the Ethics Committee, a nominee must have held a position on the Executive Committee for not less than one year. | |||
</p> | |||
<ul><li>Constitutional committee disagrees with this item. | |||
</li><li>Members of the Ethics Committee should have a strong commitment to the Libertarian Statement of Principles as published on our web site under tab ABOUT —> Principles and Goals. This could be determined by questioning nominees. | |||
</li><li>Whose version of "Libertarian Principles" are adhered to? This is identity politics intended as an "us vs. them" game, and only leads to division in the party and mistrust of the Ethics Committee.--<a href="User:CMDavidson">CMDavidson</a> 18:59, 11 August 2019 (EDT) <— Answered above by --<a href="User:Gene">GeneBalfour</a> 17:51, 13 August 2019 (EDT) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<h2> Article 16 - ELECTION OF PARTY LEADER AND DEPUTY PARTY LEADER </h2> | |||
<ul><li><b>Amend Section 1</b> - No candidate may be nominated who <i>has not been an Officer of the Party for at least a year or</i> has not expressed a willingness to accept or is legally ineligible to run for the office of member of the Legislative Assembly by Ontario or Canadian law. [Change in <i>italics.]</i> | |||
<ul><li><ol><li>4 in Allen Small's Recommendations. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 18:47, 6 March 2019 (EST) | |||
</li></ol> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<ul><li><b>Section 3</b> - The Deputy Party Leader shall succeed the Party Leader in the event of a vacancy in that position. | |||
<ul><li>No change recommended. There was some discussion when Allen resigned as Party Leader if the DL BECAME the Party Leader, or should be identified as "Interim" Party Leader. Mirriam-Webster's definition of "succeed" is, "to come next after another in office or position or in possession of an estate especially : to inherit sovereignty, rank, or <b>title</b>." It could be amended to read, "The Deputy Party Leader shall <b>BECOME</b> the Party Leader ..." if this would make it clearer. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 18:47, 6 March 2019 (EST) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
Announcement in the official publication of the Party shall be deemed to be the notification required by this Constitution. | </li></ul> | ||
<ul><li><b>Section 4</b> - In the event of vacancy in the position of Deputy Party Leader, the Caucus shall elect a new Deputy Party Leader, subject to ratification at a Convention. | |||
<ul><li>Neal Donelly, Gene Balfour, and Wendy Kadonoff, have offered their opinion from the ethics committee that in the event of a vacancy in the position of Deputy Leader, that an unofficial "volunteer Deputy Leader" may take on the role of deupty leader either at the discretion of the party leader or at the discretion of a vote by the executive committee until an election can be held by the Caucus and then ratified at a convention. --<a href="User:AndrewDAllison">AndrewDAllison</a> 15:57, 3 April 2019 (EDT) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
The following amendments were developed by the Constitutional Amendments Committee consisting of Rob Ferguson, George Dance, Andrew Allison, and Jim McIntosh during several Uber Conference Meetings during April and May, 2019 and via occasional emails. -- | <h2> Article 19 - ANNOUNCEMENTS </h2> | ||
<p>Announcement in the official publication of the Party shall be deemed to be the notification required by this Constitution. | |||
The Vision, Mission and Values were defined at a planning session, probably 15-20 years ago. Probably not something to be done piecemeal by the Constitution and Bylaws Committee. A search through the Minutes, or through my files, may determine when and how it was done, or George may remember. As I recall, it was while Sam Apelbaum was Leader. I have provided the text from the existing Bylaws.-- | </p> | ||
<ul><li>Add the following paragraph - "Email may be used whenever written notice is required in the Constitution and Bylaws." --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 22:15, 6 February 2019 (EST) | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<h1> Bylaw Amendments </h1> | |||
The Vision of the Party shall be: “People prospering in peaceful freedom through private property protection” | <p>The following amendments were developed by the Constitutional Amendments Committee consisting of Rob Ferguson, George Dance, Andrew Allison, and Jim McIntosh during several Uber Conference Meetings during April and May, 2019 and via occasional emails. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 15:30, 13 August 2019 (EDT) | ||
</p><p>The Vision, Mission and Values were defined at a planning session, probably 15-20 years ago. Probably not something to be done piecemeal by the Constitution and Bylaws Committee. A search through the Minutes, or through my files, may determine when and how it was done, or George may remember. As I recall, it was while Sam Apelbaum was Leader. I have provided the text from the existing Bylaws.--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 22:05, 6 February 2019 (EST) | |||
</p> | |||
<h2> Article 1 - VISION<br /> </h2> | |||
The Mission of the Party shall be: “To enable endless possibilities through recognition of, respect for, and protection of individual liberty.” | <p>The Vision of the Party shall be: “People prospering in peaceful freedom through private property protection” | ||
</p> | |||
<h2> Article 2 - MISSION<br /> </h2> | |||
<p>The Mission of the Party shall be: “To enable endless possibilities through recognition of, respect for, and protection of individual liberty.” | |||
The Values of the Party shall be: | </p> | ||
<h2> Article 3 - VALUES<br /> </h2> | |||
“We stand for personal responsibility. | <p>The Values of the Party shall be: | ||
</p><p>“We stand for personal responsibility. | |||
“We stand for individual liberty, and controls and restrictions on governments. | </p><p>“We stand for individual liberty, and controls and restrictions on governments. | ||
</p><p>“We recognize property rights. | |||
</p><p>“We stand for free and voluntary associations. | |||
</p><p>“We stand for freedom of expression. | |||
“We stand for free and voluntary associations. | </p><p>“Government must be limited to protecting the liberty and property of its citizens from domestic and foreign aggressors. | ||
</p><p>“We believe in voluntary, not forced, mutual aid. | |||
“We stand for freedom of expression. | </p><p>“We believe individual liberty promotes strength of character and integrity in a society. | ||
</p><p>“Government may not grant monopoly privileges to any individual or organization, including itself. | |||
“Government must be limited to protecting the liberty and property of its citizens from domestic and foreign aggressors. | </p><p>“We accept people as they are.” | ||
</p> | |||
“We believe in voluntary, not forced, mutual aid. | <h2> Article 4 - MOTTO </h2> | ||
<p>The Motto of the Party shall be: “The Party of Choice.” | |||
“We believe individual liberty promotes strength of character and integrity in a society. | </p> | ||
<ul><li>There have been suggestions we could come up with a better motto or 'slogan.' | |||
“Government may not grant monopoly privileges to any individual or organization, including itself. | <ul><li>"The Party of limited government" | ||
</li><li>"We will defend your right to pursue your own happiness" | |||
“We accept people as they are.” | </li><li>Other suggestions? | ||
</li></ul> | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<p>--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 19:01, 6 March 2019 (EST) | |||
The Motto of the Party shall be: “The Party of Choice.” | </p> | ||
<h2> Article 5 - MEMBERSHIP STATUS </h2> | |||
<ul><li><b>Section 3. </b>When the Statement of Principles is amended, all Members shall be required to  <i>accept </i>the revised Statement within a period not to exceed one year from the date of amendment or as the membership becomes due, whichever comes first. A Member who does not sign a revised Statement of Principles shall become an Associate. | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<h2> Article 6 - EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE </h2> | |||
<ul><li><b>Section 2</b> - The Executive Committee shall meet at such times and places as may be determined by action of the Committee, by call of the Chairman, or by written request of one-third or more of the members of the Executive Committee. Unless unanimously waived, <strike>a written</strike> notice of the time, place, and nature of all meetings shall be <i>emailed or</i> mailed to each member of the Executive Committee no less than 14 days prior to said meetings. | |||
<ul><li>Delete "written" and allow email notice. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 19:18, 6 March 2019 (EST) | |||
-- | </li></ul> | ||
</li></ul> | |||
<h2> Article 8 - ETHICS COMMITTEE </h2> | |||
<h2> Article 14 - PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY </h2> | |||
<ul><li>Suggested that we update to using the 2011 (11th) edition of Robert's Rules of Order | |||
</li><li>The <strike>1970 </strike><i>2011 (11th)</i> edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be the parliamentary authority for all matters of procedure not specifically covered by the Constitution and Bylaws of the Party. | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<h2> Article 15 - NOTICES </h2> | |||
<p>Add this article to the Bylaws. | |||
</p> | |||
<ul><li>Email may be accepted where a written and signed notice is required. | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<h1> Other Proposed Amendments </h1> | |||
<p>The following amendments were submitted by members after the Constitutional Amendments Committee completed drafting the above amendments. They will require a seconder before they can be considered. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 15:40, 13 August 2019 (EDT) | |||
</p> | |||
<h2> Bylaw Article 11.3 </h2> | |||
<p>Moved by Matt Dougherty - | |||
</p> | |||
<ul><li> <b>Delete</b> "Party envelopes and letterheads shall be barred from use by any candidate for his campaign." | |||
</li><li> <b>Replace with </b> "Each leadership candidate will be afforded the opportunity to advertise their candidacy and campaign using the Party website, Party social media accounts, and through a special edition of the Party newsletter." | |||
Add this article to the Bylaws. | </li><li> <b>Con</b> The existing Bylaw was intended to prevent the appearance that any candidate was endorsed by the Party and to avoid additional expenses for the Party and should not be replaced. There is no need to enshrine the practice being supported by the current Executive Committee in a Bylaw. Such practices are usually continued when they are successful unless there is good reason not to do so. <br /> | ||
</li></ul> | |||
<p>--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 10:03, 23 July 2019 (EDT) | |||
</p><p>If the above amendment is approved, Jim McIntosh will move the following; | |||
</p> | |||
The following amendments were submitted by members after the Constitutional Amendments Committee completed drafting the above amendments. They will require a seconder before they can be considered. -- | <ul><li> <b>Reinstate Article 11.3</b> immediately following Article 11.2, "Party envelopes and letterheads shall be barred from use by any candidate for his or her campaign." | ||
</li></ul> | |||
<p>--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 12:17, 26 July 2019 (EDT) | |||
</p> | |||
Moved by Matt Dougherty - | <h2> Constitution Article 4 - MEMBERSHIP AND ASSOCIATE STATUS </h2> | ||
<p>Moved by Gene Balfour | |||
</p> | |||
<ul><li><b>Delete</b> Article 4 - MEMBERSHIP AND ASSOCIATE STATUS Section 1 and ignore any previously approved amendments to this section | |||
-- | </li><li><b>Original</b>: Anyone who has signed the statement, “I'm for individual liberty,” and has paid current membership dues, shall be a “Member” of the Party. | ||
</li><li> <b>Replace with</b>: “These are the requirements to be a “Member” of the Party:<br /> | |||
If the above amendment is approved, Jim McIntosh will move the following; | </li></ul> | ||
<p>a} Accept the Membership Statement, "I agree to promote, defend and protect the Libertarian Statement of Principles”<br /> | |||
-- | b) Current membership dues have been paid.<br /> | ||
c) Adherence to the Party’s Standard of Conduct subject to enforcement of violations by the Ethics Committee.”--<a href="User:Gene">Gene</a> 18:03, 13 August 2019 (EDT) | |||
</p> | |||
Moved by Gene Balfour | <ul><li> <b>Add</b> “STANDARD OF CONDUCT” | ||
</li></ul> | |||
<ul><li> “Add” “As a (Member) (Member of the Executive Committee), I agree to conduct my relationships with the public and within the Ontario Libertarian Party in a respectful manner commensurate with the Libertarian Statement of Principles. | |||
</li></ul> | |||
a} Accept the Membership Statement, "I agree to promote, defend and protect the Libertarian Statement of Principles”<br> | <p>I understand that my behaviour may be subject to sanctions by the Ethics Committee for consistent and repeated violations of the expected conduct. | ||
b) Current membership dues have been paid.<br> | </p><p>I understand that my rights and privileges as a (Member) (Executive Committee Member) may be temporarily or permanently curtailed according to the severity of my indiscretions and my station within the Party.” | ||
c) Adherence to the Party’s Standard of Conduct subject to enforcement of violations by the Ethics Committee.”-- | </p> | ||
<ul><li> “Add” “A. Conduct Guidelines:” | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<p>“Add” | |||
I understand that my behaviour may be subject to sanctions by the Ethics Committee for consistent and repeated violations of the expected conduct. | |||
I understand that my rights and privileges as a (Member) (Executive Committee Member) may be temporarily or permanently curtailed according to the severity of my indiscretions and my station within the Party.” | |||
“Add” | |||
“Refrain from swearing; | “Refrain from swearing; | ||
Refrain from making personal attacks against others such as name-calling or false (unverifiable) accusations; | Refrain from making personal attacks against others such as name-calling or false (unverifiable) accusations; | ||
Discuss ideas, not the alleged personal faults of others. | Discuss ideas, not the alleged personal faults of others. | ||
‘Agree to disagree’ in a respectful manner if no agreement can be reached.” | ‘Agree to disagree’ in a respectful manner if no agreement can be reached.” | ||
</p> | |||
<ul><li> “Add” “B. Serious Conduct Violations” | |||
</li><li> “Add” “A serious Conduct violation occurs when the actions and/or behaviour of the alleged guilty party serve to harm or aggress against other(s) in a manner that: | |||
___ explicitly violates the Libertarian Statement of Principles and | </li></ul> | ||
<p>___ explicitly violates the Libertarian Statement of Principles and | |||
___ circumstances exist where reparations are not available or acceptable to the victim(s).” | ___ circumstances exist where reparations are not available or acceptable to the victim(s).” | ||
</p> | |||
<ul><li> “Add” “The Ethics Committee shall restrict its deliberations regarding claims of this nature to the provisions of the Libertarian Statement of Principles.” | |||
</li></ul> | |||
“ Every OLP member can expect the following rights and privileges which cannot be restricted except in the event of an Ethic Complaint against them that may result in sanctions by the the Ethics Committee: | <ul><li> “Add” “C. Rights and Privileges of OLP Membership. | ||
</li></ul> | |||
<p>“ Every OLP member can expect the following rights and privileges which cannot be restricted except in the event of an Ethic Complaint against them that may result in sanctions by the the Ethics Committee: | |||
___ Access to any and all OLP wiki and social media assets, and the ability to participate in the exchange of opinions and ideas with other OLP members on topics that pertain to Party business, politics, economics and political philosophy. | ___ Access to any and all OLP wiki and social media assets, and the ability to participate in the exchange of opinions and ideas with other OLP members on topics that pertain to Party business, politics, economics and political philosophy. | ||
___ Receipt of OLP publications such as the Quarterly Bulletin. | ___ Receipt of OLP publications such as the Quarterly Bulletin. | ||
___ Notification of all official OLP events. | ___ Notification of all official OLP events. | ||
___ Defence and protection from improper, aggressive and/or harmful acts from other OLP Members or Members of the Executive Committee who find themselves in violation of the Standard of Conduct. “ | ___ Defence and protection from improper, aggressive and/or harmful acts from other OLP Members or Members of the Executive Committee who find themselves in violation of the Standard of Conduct. “ | ||
</p> | |||
<ul><li> Reason: when a Member agrees to join the Party and pay for that membership, there is an implied contract between both parties with expectations by both parties. There failure of either party to live up to those expectations is a failure to live up to the Libertarian Statement of Principles. In the past, the OLP reserved the right to curtain Member privileges for ‘just cause’ and with proof. In situations where ‘just cause” can not be proven, then the only recourse that an OLP Member has to seek justice is the Ethics Committee. A Statement of Conduct can be properly used to determine if an Ethics Claim has merit vid-a-vis the Statement of Principles, or not. This is one mechanism to prevent cases from taking up time and resources of the Ethics Committee an Ethics Claim does not meet the required criteria as defined in our Statement of Principles. Futhermore, it is currently unless to many OLP members as to what behaviours are acceptable regarding their engagement with other Members and the public in general. A Standard of Conduct can help in this matter especially when it is base on our own Libertarian Statement of Principles. | |||
</li></ul> | |||
Moved by Gene Balfour | <h2> Constitution Article 3 - VALUES </h2> | ||
<p>Moved by Gene Balfour | |||
</p> | |||
The Values of the Party shall be: | <ul><li> <b>Delete</b> Article 3 - VALUES | ||
</li></ul> | |||
<p>The Values of the Party shall be: | |||
“We stand for personal responsibility. | “We stand for personal responsibility. | ||
“We stand for individual liberty, and controls and restrictions on governments. | “We stand for individual liberty, and controls and restrictions on governments. | ||
| Line 260: | Line 252: | ||
“We accept people as they as. | “We accept people as they as. | ||
' | ' | ||
</p> | |||
The Values of the Party are grounded in the following beliefs and our acknowledgement of the unpredictable circumstances which may confront each and every one of us throughout life. History has taught us that nation states which allowed the excessive concentration and scope of power to grow within their public institutions eventually produced conditions that proved dangerous, and even deadly, to their citizens. For this reason, we believe that government authority must be limited to protecting the liberty and property of its citizens from domestic and foreign aggressors. It follows that Governments must never be empowered to grant monopoly rights or privileges to any individual or organization, including itself. We also believe that the combination of individual liberty and the acceptance of personal responsibility promotes strength of character in our citizens and cohesiveness in society. However, life is challenging and sometimes brings surprises from which we may find ourself requiring the justifiable help from others. This too informs our values which are: | <ul><li> <b>Replace with Article 3 - VALUES</b> | ||
</li></ul> | |||
<p>The Values of the Party are grounded in the following beliefs and our acknowledgement of the unpredictable circumstances which may confront each and every one of us throughout life. History has taught us that nation states which allowed the excessive concentration and scope of power to grow within their public institutions eventually produced conditions that proved dangerous, and even deadly, to their citizens. For this reason, we believe that government authority must be limited to protecting the liberty and property of its citizens from domestic and foreign aggressors. It follows that Governments must never be empowered to grant monopoly rights or privileges to any individual or organization, including itself. We also believe that the combination of individual liberty and the acceptance of personal responsibility promotes strength of character in our citizens and cohesiveness in society. However, life is challenging and sometimes brings surprises from which we may find ourself requiring the justifiable help from others. This too informs our values which are: | |||
“We stand for free and voluntary associations. | “We stand for free and voluntary associations. | ||
“We stand for freedom of expression. | “We stand for freedom of expression. | ||
| Line 271: | Line 265: | ||
“We believe in voluntary, not forced, mutual aid. | “We believe in voluntary, not forced, mutual aid. | ||
“We accept people as they are provided that they do not harm or aggress against us”. | “We accept people as they are provided that they do not harm or aggress against us”. | ||
</p> | |||
<ul><li> Reason: the proposed Amendment provides context for our values and a more succinct summary of them. The current VALUES content is a mixture of values and beliefs. The proposed amendment separates the two and uses our beliefs to provide the context for our values. If the OLP wishes to publish this content, it is best to do so with proper use of the English language and structure.” | |||
</li></ul> | |||
<p><br /> | |||
Motion by Gene Balfour | Motion by Gene Balfour | ||
</p><p>Restructuring of Principles and Goals page. Proposed changed for existing layout: | |||
Restructuring of Principles and Goals page. Proposed changed for existing layout: | </p> | ||
<ul><li> Delete “STATEMENT OF ULTIMATE GOALS” | |||
</li><li> Replace “A. Libertarian Statement of Principles” with “LIBERTARIAN STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES”. | |||
</li><li> Replace “B. PREAMBLE” with “STATEMENT OF ULTIMATE GOALS”. Reason. The proper title for this new section. | |||
</li><li> Replace “C.” with “A.”. Reason. INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS is the first subsection | |||
</li><li> Replace “D.” with “B.”. Reason. JUSTICE is the 2nd subsection | |||
</li><li> Replace “E.” with “C.”. Reason. Renumbering continues | |||
</li><li> Replace “F.” with “D.”. Reason. Renumbering continues | |||
</li><li> Replace “G.” with “E”. Reason. Renumbering | |||
</li><li> Reason: The Libertarian Statement of Principles and Statement of Ultimate Goals are logically two different topics and should be separated. | |||
</li></ul> | |||
Revision as of 22:40, 13 August 2019
The purpose of this page is to propose, discuss and decide on amendments to the Party's Constitution and Bylaws. Suggestions for amendments to a particular Article should be documented in the relevant section. It may simply be a concern or idea, or you can propose the actual amendment. Or if you don't like a proposed amendment, explain your objection and/or offer an alternative.
A preliminary draft of proposed amendments was published in the <a href="http://ontariolibertarian.ca/node/6711">summer 2019 issue of Bulletin</a>.
Please add your signature to your entry. In the RichText Editor it is the 6th icon from the right in the top row. In the WikiText Editor it is the 2nd icon from the right.
Allen’s Preliminary Recommendations following 2018 General Election
Allen Small, Leader at the time of the 2018 General Election, made a number of recommendations based on his experience leading up to and during the Election. <a href="Exec:August 7, 2018 Minutes#Allen.E2.80.99s_Preliminary_Recommendations_following_2018_General_Election">His Recommendations </a> were presented at the August 7, 2018 Meeting. You can download his original document <a href="Allen%E2%80%99s_Preliminary_Recommendations_following_2018_General_Election.docx" class="internal" _fck_mw_filename="Allen%E2%80%99s_Preliminary_Recommendations_following_2018_General_Election.docx" _fck_mw_type="media" title="Allen’s Preliminary Recommendations following 2018 General Election.docx">here</a>. This was the prime motivation for creating a committee to draft amendments to the Party's Constitution and Bylaws for presentation at the Convention to be held in November 2019.
Allen's recommendations have the objective of, "Protecting the fundamental purpose of the party by changing the way the Executive Committee and Candidates are selected." See <a href="#Article_3_-_Purpose">Article 3</a> below.
The following is the text of his recommendations, divided as to recommendations that require amendments to the Constitution and/or Bylaws (Items 2 - 5, 7 and 8) or those which may be implemented by the Leader and Campaign Director for the next election or By-election (Items 1, 6 and 9). Two recommendations can be implemented by the Executive Committee (Items 8 and 10).
(Item 8 was split into two parts, assuming that the Campaign Director is to be a new voting Officer on the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may decide on Facebook ads, etc.)
The items are renumbered below.
Recommendations requiring Amendments
- Allen's Item 2 - To Join the Party change the declaration to:
- To be a Member of the Party, select "I am for liberty, free markets, property rights and limited government.”
- To be an Associate of the Party, select "I wish to be a non-voting Associate of the Party.”
- See <a href="#Article_4_-_MEMBERSHIP_AND_ASSOCIATE_STATUS">Article 4</a> below
- Allen's Item 3 - To be eligible for election to the Party Executive Committee, a nominee must be a voting member of the Party for at least 60 days prior to an AGM or Convention. See <a href="#Article_6_-_EXECUTIVE_COMMITTEE">Article 6</a> below.
- Allen's Item 4 - To be eligible for election as Leader or Deputy Leader, a nominee must have held a position on the Executive Committee for not less than one year. See <a href="#Article_6_-_EXECUTIVE_COMMITTEE">Article 6</a> below.
- Allen's Item 5 - To be eligible for election to the Ethics Committee, a nominee must have held a position on the Executive Committee for not less than one year. See <a href="#Article_8_-_Ethics_Committee">Article 8</a> below.
- Allen's Item 7 - Redefine the duties of the Officers of the Exec Comm. – prior to the next Convention. See <a href="#Article_6_-_EXECUTIVE_COMMITTEE">Article 6</a> below.
- Allen's Item 8 - Create a Communications team led by a Communications Director to do Website updates, Facebook/Twitter ads/email answers – contact info etc. See <a href="#Article_6_-_EXECUTIVE_COMMITTEE">Article 6</a> below.
Recommendations to be considered for implementation at the next election
- Allen's Item 7 - Qualifying/Endorsing/Vetting candidates – each prospective candidate requires the approval of at least of 1 member of the Exec. committee or 2 ordinary members of the Party who will vouch for them.
- this amendment will essentially eliminate the paper and parachute candidates that were used as an essential part of the 2018 campaign to reach a near full slate of candidates. --<a href="User:CMDavidson">CMDavidson</a> 19:45, 11 August 2019 (EDT)
- Allen's Item 5 - To be a candidate: candidates must sign an updated version (needs to be updated) of the <a href="https://www.ontariolibertarian.ca/sites/ontariolibertarian.ca.d6/files/Candidate%20Application_0.pdf">Candidate Application Form</a> and accept terms of candidacy including posting rudimentary profile info including written disclosure of campaign plans to Campaign Director upon being accepted as candidate. Candidates must provide an active email address that must be posted on our website to allow for contact from media people or requests for campaign signs etc. especially during election periods.
- Jim had all candidates sign this updated version of the Candidate Application for the 2018 Election. It does not cover all of the items recommended above. However we have the candidate's email ID (and phone number) on CRM, and verified with the F0400 Nomination form.
- Could have a volunteer interview each candidate (like a reporter) and draft their profiles.
- Leaders notes - Campaign committee should be allowed to to determine
- Allen's Item 9 - Create teams in each region with sign posting responsibility during elections
- We assigned Regional Coordinators in 2014 (or earlier?). It may be essential to do so in 2022, especially of we don't have 3-4 people with lots of time to recruit, vet, collect signatures and get candidates registered. Posting signs could be one of their responsibilities. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 21:16, 23 March 2019 (EDT)
Recommendations to be considered by the Executive Committee
- Continue to buy Facebook page ads – build “likes”. Use Facebook groups to organize and message members.
- Rent long term storage space for party materials/signs etc. somewhere in GTA.
Constitutional Amendments
The following amendments were developed by the Constitutional Amendments Committee consisting of Rob Ferguson, George Dance, Andrew Allison, and Jim McIntosh during several Uber Conference Meetings during April and May, 2019 and via occasional emails.
Article 3 - Purpose
The purpose of the Party is to modify the political structure and social environment of Ontario to provide the greatest amount of freedom for individuals. To that end the Party shall:
a) engage in political activity such as the formation of constituency associations and the election of Party candidates to the Legislature;
b) disseminate information about the Libertarian philosophy;
c) support groups and individuals that are in agreement with Libertarian philosophy;
d) co-operate with any group where Libertarian philosophy can be promoted without compromising principles.
Article 4 - MEMBERSHIP AND ASSOCIATE STATUS
- Replace Article 4, section 1 with the following -"Anyone who
has signed\accepts the statement, "I am for individual liberty, property rights, free markets and limited government.” and has paid current membership dues, shall be a “Member” of the Party. [Words in Italics are new.]- "Limited Government" may discourage An-Caps from becoming Members. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 20:03, 6 March 2019 (EST)
- Replace Article 4, section 2 with the following - "Anyone who
has signedaccepts the statement, “I wish to be a non-voting Associate of the Ontario Libertarian Party,” and has paid current membership fees, shall be an Associate of the Party. [Words in Italics are new.]- This will make clear the difference between a Member (who has the privileges described elsewhere) and Associate (who does not have these privileges).--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 21:50, 6 February 2019 (EST)
Article 5 - OFFICERS
- Allen's item 7 "Redefine the duties of the Officers of the Exec Comm. – prior to the next Convention."
- This will likely take at least an hour and we should not tackle it until everyone has read the <a _fcknotitle="true" href="Executive Standards">Executive Standards</a> on our Wiki. Not everything included in this document or items linked from it needs to be included in the Constitution (or Bylaws).--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 17:37, 6 March 2019 (EST)
- Section 2 - "... The Chairman shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Party."
- Consideration - Corporations have <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/ceo.asp">CEOs</a>, paid managers and a <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/boardoftrustees.asp">Board</a> that sets direction for the corporation. I don't think our Chair is equivalent to a CEO, however we should consider adding some description of tasks or responsibilities. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 17:35, 6 March 2019 (EST)
- Section 6 b) The Treasurer shall serve as the Chief Financial Officer of the Party and shall be responsible for all obligations imposed on the Party by
the Commission on Election FinancesElections Ontario. The term of the Chief Financial Officer shall coincide with the fiscal year of the party.- The Commission on Election Finances was merged into Elections Ontario in 1998.--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 17:37, 6 March 2019 (EST)
- Section 6 b) The Treasurer shall serve as the Chief Financial Officer of the Party and shall be responsible for all obligations imposed on the Party by
the Commission on Election FinancesElections Ontario.The term of the Chief Financial Officer shall coincide with the fiscal year of the party.The Treasurer shall act as Chief Financial Officer from the beginning of the fiscal year of the party following his election or appointment until the beginning of the fiscal year following the election or appointment of his successor.- See my comments in Discussion. <a href="User:George Dance">George Dance</a> 15:53, 27 March 2019 (EDT)
Article 6 - EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
- New section - to be inserted between sections 1 and 2. Any Member standing for election to the Executive Committee must have been a Member of the Party for at least 60 days. The following sections to be renumbered.
- Item 3 in Allen Small's Recommendations, to ensure Members elected to the Executive Committee have some experience with the Party. This includes the Leader and Deputy Leader. However, it is moot if the amendment that the Leader and DL must have been members of the Executive for a year (Article 16). It could be added at the end of Article 5 - Officers.--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 17:38, 6 March 2019 (EST)
- It may be advisable to require the Chairman and Treasurer to have had at least one year as a member of the Executive Committee. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 20:49, 23 March 2019 (EDT)
- It was suggested that the Executive Committee could vote to overrule this rule to replace an Officer if a stronger candidate was presented. If it happened at a Convention or AGM, we would need to determine if the delegates could pass a motion to accept a candidate who doesn't meet this criteria.
- Allen's Item 7 - Redefine the duties of the Officers of the Exec Comm – prior to the next Convention.
- Many of the duties and suggestions are already defined in the <a _fcknotitle="true" href="Executive Standards">Executive Standards</a>. We would need to determine if any additions need to made to the Constitution or Bylaws.
- Leaders notes, job descriptions development has started by members of the executive committee. Party chair should be at forehead of this task.
- Might be appropriate for one of us to contact each member of the EC, read them their duties according to the Constitution, and ask if anything should be removed, added or clarified. Then do the same with the description in the Executive Standards.
- Allen's Item 8 - Create a Communications team led by a Communications Director to do Website updates, Facebook/Twitter ads/email answers – contact info etc.
- Leaders notes, executive committee encouragement of volunteers. Designate volunteers under Campaign Director with Chair support.
- Do we want to add another (voting) Officer to the Executive Committee? If so, we will need to define the role for the Constitution and add to the Executive Standards.
- Jim McIntosh will define the possible list of responsibilities that would belong to the Communications Director.
Article 7 - CONSTITUENCY ASSOCIATIONS
The Executive Committee shall recognize, and apply to the Commission on Election Finances Elections Ontario to register as a Constituency Association, any properly constituted group which has held a meeting, adopted a constitution consistent with the Statement of Principles and Constitution of the Party, and met the necessary legal requirements.
Article 8 - Ethics Committee
Allen's Item 5 - new section - "To be eligible for election to the Ethics Committee, a nominee must have held a position on the Executive Committee for not less than one year.
- Constitutional committee disagrees with this item.
- Members of the Ethics Committee should have a strong commitment to the Libertarian Statement of Principles as published on our web site under tab ABOUT —> Principles and Goals. This could be determined by questioning nominees.
- Whose version of "Libertarian Principles" are adhered to? This is identity politics intended as an "us vs. them" game, and only leads to division in the party and mistrust of the Ethics Committee.--<a href="User:CMDavidson">CMDavidson</a> 18:59, 11 August 2019 (EDT) <— Answered above by --<a href="User:Gene">GeneBalfour</a> 17:51, 13 August 2019 (EDT)
Article 16 - ELECTION OF PARTY LEADER AND DEPUTY PARTY LEADER
- Amend Section 1 - No candidate may be nominated who has not been an Officer of the Party for at least a year or has not expressed a willingness to accept or is legally ineligible to run for the office of member of the Legislative Assembly by Ontario or Canadian law. [Change in italics.]
- 4 in Allen Small's Recommendations. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 18:47, 6 March 2019 (EST)
- Section 3 - The Deputy Party Leader shall succeed the Party Leader in the event of a vacancy in that position.
- No change recommended. There was some discussion when Allen resigned as Party Leader if the DL BECAME the Party Leader, or should be identified as "Interim" Party Leader. Mirriam-Webster's definition of "succeed" is, "to come next after another in office or position or in possession of an estate especially : to inherit sovereignty, rank, or title." It could be amended to read, "The Deputy Party Leader shall BECOME the Party Leader ..." if this would make it clearer. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 18:47, 6 March 2019 (EST)
- Section 4 - In the event of vacancy in the position of Deputy Party Leader, the Caucus shall elect a new Deputy Party Leader, subject to ratification at a Convention.
- Neal Donelly, Gene Balfour, and Wendy Kadonoff, have offered their opinion from the ethics committee that in the event of a vacancy in the position of Deputy Leader, that an unofficial "volunteer Deputy Leader" may take on the role of deupty leader either at the discretion of the party leader or at the discretion of a vote by the executive committee until an election can be held by the Caucus and then ratified at a convention. --<a href="User:AndrewDAllison">AndrewDAllison</a> 15:57, 3 April 2019 (EDT)
Article 19 - ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcement in the official publication of the Party shall be deemed to be the notification required by this Constitution.
- Add the following paragraph - "Email may be used whenever written notice is required in the Constitution and Bylaws." --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 22:15, 6 February 2019 (EST)
Bylaw Amendments
The following amendments were developed by the Constitutional Amendments Committee consisting of Rob Ferguson, George Dance, Andrew Allison, and Jim McIntosh during several Uber Conference Meetings during April and May, 2019 and via occasional emails. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 15:30, 13 August 2019 (EDT)
The Vision, Mission and Values were defined at a planning session, probably 15-20 years ago. Probably not something to be done piecemeal by the Constitution and Bylaws Committee. A search through the Minutes, or through my files, may determine when and how it was done, or George may remember. As I recall, it was while Sam Apelbaum was Leader. I have provided the text from the existing Bylaws.--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 22:05, 6 February 2019 (EST)
Article 1 - VISION
The Vision of the Party shall be: “People prospering in peaceful freedom through private property protection”
Article 2 - MISSION
The Mission of the Party shall be: “To enable endless possibilities through recognition of, respect for, and protection of individual liberty.”
Article 3 - VALUES
The Values of the Party shall be:
“We stand for personal responsibility.
“We stand for individual liberty, and controls and restrictions on governments.
“We recognize property rights.
“We stand for free and voluntary associations.
“We stand for freedom of expression.
“Government must be limited to protecting the liberty and property of its citizens from domestic and foreign aggressors.
“We believe in voluntary, not forced, mutual aid.
“We believe individual liberty promotes strength of character and integrity in a society.
“Government may not grant monopoly privileges to any individual or organization, including itself.
“We accept people as they are.”
Article 4 - MOTTO
The Motto of the Party shall be: “The Party of Choice.”
- There have been suggestions we could come up with a better motto or 'slogan.'
- "The Party of limited government"
- "We will defend your right to pursue your own happiness"
- Other suggestions?
--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 19:01, 6 March 2019 (EST)
Article 5 - MEMBERSHIP STATUS
- Section 3. When the Statement of Principles is amended, all Members shall be required to accept the revised Statement within a period not to exceed one year from the date of amendment or as the membership becomes due, whichever comes first. A Member who does not sign a revised Statement of Principles shall become an Associate.
Article 6 - EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
- Section 2 - The Executive Committee shall meet at such times and places as may be determined by action of the Committee, by call of the Chairman, or by written request of one-third or more of the members of the Executive Committee. Unless unanimously waived,
a writtennotice of the time, place, and nature of all meetings shall be emailed or mailed to each member of the Executive Committee no less than 14 days prior to said meetings.- Delete "written" and allow email notice. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 19:18, 6 March 2019 (EST)
Article 8 - ETHICS COMMITTEE
Article 14 - PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
- Suggested that we update to using the 2011 (11th) edition of Robert's Rules of Order
- The
19702011 (11th) edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised shall be the parliamentary authority for all matters of procedure not specifically covered by the Constitution and Bylaws of the Party.
Article 15 - NOTICES
Add this article to the Bylaws.
- Email may be accepted where a written and signed notice is required.
Other Proposed Amendments
The following amendments were submitted by members after the Constitutional Amendments Committee completed drafting the above amendments. They will require a seconder before they can be considered. --<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 15:40, 13 August 2019 (EDT)
Bylaw Article 11.3
Moved by Matt Dougherty -
- Delete "Party envelopes and letterheads shall be barred from use by any candidate for his campaign."
- Replace with "Each leadership candidate will be afforded the opportunity to advertise their candidacy and campaign using the Party website, Party social media accounts, and through a special edition of the Party newsletter."
- Con The existing Bylaw was intended to prevent the appearance that any candidate was endorsed by the Party and to avoid additional expenses for the Party and should not be replaced. There is no need to enshrine the practice being supported by the current Executive Committee in a Bylaw. Such practices are usually continued when they are successful unless there is good reason not to do so.
--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 10:03, 23 July 2019 (EDT)
If the above amendment is approved, Jim McIntosh will move the following;
- Reinstate Article 11.3 immediately following Article 11.2, "Party envelopes and letterheads shall be barred from use by any candidate for his or her campaign."
--<a href="User:LibertarianCFO">Jim McIntosh</a> 12:17, 26 July 2019 (EDT)
Constitution Article 4 - MEMBERSHIP AND ASSOCIATE STATUS
Moved by Gene Balfour
- Delete Article 4 - MEMBERSHIP AND ASSOCIATE STATUS Section 1 and ignore any previously approved amendments to this section
- Original: Anyone who has signed the statement, “I'm for individual liberty,” and has paid current membership dues, shall be a “Member” of the Party.
- Replace with: “These are the requirements to be a “Member” of the Party:
a} Accept the Membership Statement, "I agree to promote, defend and protect the Libertarian Statement of Principles”
b) Current membership dues have been paid.
c) Adherence to the Party’s Standard of Conduct subject to enforcement of violations by the Ethics Committee.”--<a href="User:Gene">Gene</a> 18:03, 13 August 2019 (EDT)
- Add “STANDARD OF CONDUCT”
- “Add” “As a (Member) (Member of the Executive Committee), I agree to conduct my relationships with the public and within the Ontario Libertarian Party in a respectful manner commensurate with the Libertarian Statement of Principles.
I understand that my behaviour may be subject to sanctions by the Ethics Committee for consistent and repeated violations of the expected conduct.
I understand that my rights and privileges as a (Member) (Executive Committee Member) may be temporarily or permanently curtailed according to the severity of my indiscretions and my station within the Party.”
- “Add” “A. Conduct Guidelines:”
“Add” “Refrain from swearing; Refrain from making personal attacks against others such as name-calling or false (unverifiable) accusations; Discuss ideas, not the alleged personal faults of others. ‘Agree to disagree’ in a respectful manner if no agreement can be reached.”
- “Add” “B. Serious Conduct Violations”
- “Add” “A serious Conduct violation occurs when the actions and/or behaviour of the alleged guilty party serve to harm or aggress against other(s) in a manner that:
___ explicitly violates the Libertarian Statement of Principles and ___ circumstances exist where reparations are not available or acceptable to the victim(s).”
- “Add” “The Ethics Committee shall restrict its deliberations regarding claims of this nature to the provisions of the Libertarian Statement of Principles.”
- “Add” “C. Rights and Privileges of OLP Membership.
“ Every OLP member can expect the following rights and privileges which cannot be restricted except in the event of an Ethic Complaint against them that may result in sanctions by the the Ethics Committee: ___ Access to any and all OLP wiki and social media assets, and the ability to participate in the exchange of opinions and ideas with other OLP members on topics that pertain to Party business, politics, economics and political philosophy. ___ Receipt of OLP publications such as the Quarterly Bulletin. ___ Notification of all official OLP events. ___ Defence and protection from improper, aggressive and/or harmful acts from other OLP Members or Members of the Executive Committee who find themselves in violation of the Standard of Conduct. “
- Reason: when a Member agrees to join the Party and pay for that membership, there is an implied contract between both parties with expectations by both parties. There failure of either party to live up to those expectations is a failure to live up to the Libertarian Statement of Principles. In the past, the OLP reserved the right to curtain Member privileges for ‘just cause’ and with proof. In situations where ‘just cause” can not be proven, then the only recourse that an OLP Member has to seek justice is the Ethics Committee. A Statement of Conduct can be properly used to determine if an Ethics Claim has merit vid-a-vis the Statement of Principles, or not. This is one mechanism to prevent cases from taking up time and resources of the Ethics Committee an Ethics Claim does not meet the required criteria as defined in our Statement of Principles. Futhermore, it is currently unless to many OLP members as to what behaviours are acceptable regarding their engagement with other Members and the public in general. A Standard of Conduct can help in this matter especially when it is base on our own Libertarian Statement of Principles.
Constitution Article 3 - VALUES
Moved by Gene Balfour
- Delete Article 3 - VALUES
The Values of the Party shall be: “We stand for personal responsibility. “We stand for individual liberty, and controls and restrictions on governments. “We recognize property rights. “We stand for free and voluntary associations. “We stand for freedom of expression. “Government must be limited to protecting the liberty and property of its citizens from domestic and foreign aggressors. “We believe in voluntary, not forced, mutual aid. “We believe individual liberty promotes strength of character and integrity in a society. “Government may not grant monopoly privileges to any individual or organization, including itself. “We accept people as they as. '
- Replace with Article 3 - VALUES
The Values of the Party are grounded in the following beliefs and our acknowledgement of the unpredictable circumstances which may confront each and every one of us throughout life. History has taught us that nation states which allowed the excessive concentration and scope of power to grow within their public institutions eventually produced conditions that proved dangerous, and even deadly, to their citizens. For this reason, we believe that government authority must be limited to protecting the liberty and property of its citizens from domestic and foreign aggressors. It follows that Governments must never be empowered to grant monopoly rights or privileges to any individual or organization, including itself. We also believe that the combination of individual liberty and the acceptance of personal responsibility promotes strength of character in our citizens and cohesiveness in society. However, life is challenging and sometimes brings surprises from which we may find ourself requiring the justifiable help from others. This too informs our values which are: “We stand for free and voluntary associations. “We stand for freedom of expression. “We stand for freedom of speech. “We stand for freedom of choice. “We stand for free trade between willing participants. “We recognize, defend and protect person and property rights. “We encourage and respect one’s acceptance of personal responsibility to the greatest possible extent. “We believe in voluntary, not forced, mutual aid. “We accept people as they are provided that they do not harm or aggress against us”.
- Reason: the proposed Amendment provides context for our values and a more succinct summary of them. The current VALUES content is a mixture of values and beliefs. The proposed amendment separates the two and uses our beliefs to provide the context for our values. If the OLP wishes to publish this content, it is best to do so with proper use of the English language and structure.”
Motion by Gene Balfour
Restructuring of Principles and Goals page. Proposed changed for existing layout:
- Delete “STATEMENT OF ULTIMATE GOALS”
- Replace “A. Libertarian Statement of Principles” with “LIBERTARIAN STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES”.
- Replace “B. PREAMBLE” with “STATEMENT OF ULTIMATE GOALS”. Reason. The proper title for this new section.
- Replace “C.” with “A.”. Reason. INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS is the first subsection
- Replace “D.” with “B.”. Reason. JUSTICE is the 2nd subsection
- Replace “E.” with “C.”. Reason. Renumbering continues
- Replace “F.” with “D.”. Reason. Renumbering continues
- Replace “G.” with “E”. Reason. Renumbering
- Reason: The Libertarian Statement of Principles and Statement of Ultimate Goals are logically two different topics and should be separated.