Local awards
Posted: 29 June 2010 03:06 PM   [ Ignore ]
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Our civic society is at present studying nominations for the biannual awards.
If a member has submitted his own property, should he be allowed to vote on it, or abstain.
Does anyone have any experience on this situation, please.

 
 
Posted: 08 July 2010 12:38 PM   [ Ignore ]   [ # 1 ]
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Kath - there are no hard and fast rules on such matters and you may want to think about in terms of the the perception that might be given to others.  It is usual for individuals to stand aside in any such discussion where they have a personal interest.

The 7 Nolan Principles of Public Life are now well established and apply as well for any group working in the public interest - such as a charity:

Selflessness – Holders of public office should act solely in terms of the public interest.  They should not do so in order to gain financial or other benefits for themselves, their family or their friends.
Integrity – Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might seek to influence them in the performance of their official duties.
Objectivity – In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit.
Accountability – Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office.
Openness – Holders of public office should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions they take.  They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict informtion only when the wider public interest clearly demands.
Honesty – Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest.
Leadership -  Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.