22 July 2015

BPIF constitution reformed

The BPIF Constitution is a formal document which establishes and governs the BPIF as an Unincorporated Association. It sets out the rules by which the Federation is run and enables all members to understand what is expected and how the Federation is managed. It is essential that the BPIF's constitution meets its needs. The BPIF constitution has existed- in one form or another- for over a century and has been amended many times to ensure its relevance.

It sets outs the following:

• Objectives of the BPIF
• How BPIF is governed by its members
• Rights and obligations that apply to members
• Voting rules
• Processes for electing member representatives 
• Powers and obligations that apply to elected and appointed member representatives and to BPIF staff
• Roles and responsibilities of National Council, Board of Directors, Committees, Regional Boards and SIGs
• Business to be conducted in open meetings of members (and rules for calling such meetings)
• Criteria for admission to and expulsion from membership

The BPIF have reformed the constitution to reflect the organisation as it stands and this was approved on the 2 July 2015 and the AGM. These changes will have the following impact:

• Recognition that District Associations no longer meet 
• A new democratic process for appointing Regional Board members
• A clear and well-defined role for Regional Boards
• A voice on Council and G&I Committee for any SIG that seeks this
• Board responsible for approving senior management structure
• Individual membership recognised and membership criteria/rights defined

To request a copy of the new constitution please contact your regional administrator, alternatively you can download this here.