Committee work

In my committee meeting yesterday we saw what happens when people are anxious and unsure about process. A substitute motion was made to replace one of our motions with another motion. The person making the motion did so because he believed both motions should be discussed at the same time, instead of separately. In theory his desire for a substitute motion made sense. The problem, however, was that people did not understand how a substitute motion worked. It took quite a bit of time and many questions to clarify the process. What became apparent to me was that underlying the lack of knowledge was a lack of trust as to other people's motives. Having struggled through substitute motions in some highly charged meetings in my work as Moderator and on the Committee on Ministry, I have come to recognize that the parliamentary process is at its best in crisis because it allows us a path to work through the issue. But, you have to trust the people with whom you are working and you have to trust the process.

Peace,

Richard