National Governance Working Group
ROCKHAMPTON CONSTITUTION CONSULTATION with the NASSIGWG 17/10/2014. feedback…

RANDALL WARKILL –
Thought I’d take this opportunity to update on the Rockhampton ASSI National Body meeting, held Friday 17th.

The Item for discussion “The Draft Constitution” planned for that day was not approved or passed, it was discussed. I attended the meeting with no expectations other than to halt the Draft Constitution. The NASSIWG have one objective and that is to develop the constitution for a national body.

NASSIWG realise and understand that a National Body and a State Body needs to happen and to operate at full potential one cannot function without the other. NASSIWG also believe as does the guest speaker, Member for Keppel Mr Bruce Young that a National Body should be established first. It is important to note that NASSIWG has the best interests of the Australian South Sea Islanders at hand when it comes to establishing a National Body, although the processes and communication does need reviewing they do have their heart in the right place with compassion, integrity and commitment to deliver a reasonable, open minded constitution with realistic guidelines for ASSI.

Gilbert and Tobin Lawyers are experienced in establishing non for profit organisations, and it is their judgement and expert advice that is assisting in writing of the constitution. I must note it is our (the peoples) wording of that document that is being added and not that of Gilbert and Tobin. I am inclined to change my point of view as I feel a voice at a National level will be critical to our goals at a State level as we advocate for recognition and human rights issues.

I have asked myself what is in best interest for our people and I believe this is right I am committed to both and believe one cannot work without the other in terms of people ownership at the grassroots. I know there has been a lot of miscommunication that has lead to the difference of opinions and interpretations of NASSIWG and the National Body so I ask you all to consider this.

The Government continues to struggle with the difficult task of addressing the marginalisation and disadvantage peoples and maybe it is because at that level we have no representation. If we are to move forward let’s not add to the Governments struggle and band together and overcome our indifferences by attending meetings (if you are able) and support our future. This is only a brief update and my opinions after the Rockhampton meeting , I am sure the NASSIWG will send out the minutes of that meeting shortly.
Thanks