In the joint statement it is suggested that "despite previously agreeing clear and reasonable terms of reference to enable us all to work productively together, these terms have been too frequently disregarded to the detriment of individual representatives, associations within the group and sadly, the group as a whole."
An example of this was when an NASG group member made reference to being omitted from the emailing list on several occasions, which was not considered to have been accidental. A report was written within a private members forum, from which copyrighted information was extracted and presented at the last meeting at which a discussion ensued. It was suggested this report challenged the integrity of another NASG member. The last meeting calmed the waters on this particular issue, yet, from these two incidents, it has been stated terms have been too frequently disregarded, which is an absolute nonsense!
If there is too much disagreement this is seen by some as being disruptive. Two Associations tried to develop the power to remove any other Association from the group for this 'offence' which was defended by DIDU and others as unconstitutional, albeit a resolution was finally reached. Having six Associations with very different opinions and agenda's will not always bring everyone into unison on every subject. Being railroaded into agreement is not the way forward. DIDU, as a non profit making association, has an obligation to work on behalf of its membership and that is what we will continue to do.
Further, to suggest anyone is bringing the NASG or the industry as a whole into disrepute is particularly offensive to DIDU! Using the term frequently disregard is inaccurate in the extreme, and to have made that statement, knowing it to be inaccurate, is disreputable in DIDU's opinion. Three Associations (of which DIDU is one) have not walked away from their responsibilities and the members of those Associations should be proud that they are supporting their wishes and freedom of information to their members.
At the time of writing the position of MSA is as yet unknown.
Sincerely,
Barry Kenward. Chair.
The DIDU Association.