Special General Meeting

by Gary Lewis

A poorly attended Special General Meeting on Wednesday was held to discuss two motions concerning the appointment of a second Research officer for the NZUSA.

The general idea according to Dave Tripe and Tony Ward was to have a non political appointee research in the areas of welfare and accomodation. At the moment General Vice-President Tripe (NZUSA) is responsible but seems to have too much on his plate and to ensure some sort of continuity in this field, a non political officer would not have to worry about elections every twelve months.

Little interest in the meeting by those attending was marked by a radio tuned to the Olympics and a general apathy pervaded to the extent that although divisions were called by those voting against, no-one spoke against either motion.

The chairperson was obviously disturbed by the lack of participation. Aagaard was heard to say, "Thats difficult, I'd say it passed." Tripe noted that an initial survey at Auckland University showed that 80% of students avoided dental care because of very high fees.

Another officer would research New Zealand wide into this type of problem. Apparently its illegal for a student health service to offer dental care. Good for the dentists, no doubt.

The second motion marginally increased the NZUSA levy to $1.60. That's only an increase of five cents.

Those lucky enough to attend (numbering around 100) voted by majority to pass both motions and resistance was hardly concerted. Although not a world shattering policy decision, David Tripe now can devote more time to nuclear protests and to lobbying for the lowering of the drinking age.

And now, hopefully, students will be better served in the areas of welfare and accomodation, specifically health, dentistry and child care.

A full time non political appointee researching into these things can provide the information needed to prove our case.