Resolution Process

A GOOD RESOLUTION…

• Uses clear simple wording;
• Deals with just one topic (problem) and has one major objective;
• Clearly identifies the problem in the WHEREAS and specifically outlines the required action in the BE IT RESOLVED;
• Builds in accountability, e.g., deadlines; which body will be responsible to implement the proposed action, etc.;
• Ensures the action proposed is within the jurisdiction of the organization to implement;
• Allows for flexibility in implementation - it is the end result that counts;
• Applies the WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHY and HOW test.

RESOLUTION CHECKLIST

1. Is the intent clear?
2. Does it deal with just one problem?
3. Is the proposed action specifically defined?
4. Does CSC have jurisdiction to take the proposed action?
5. Are the necessary resources stipulated?
6. Has accountability been built in?

A RESOLUTION MAY…

• AMEND EXISTING SECTIONS OR ADD NEW SECTIONS TO THE NEC CONSTITUTION
  • The constitution reflects the principles and goals of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and establishes the structures and process for decision-making. It also defines the general framework for the operation of the NEC. A recent example of this type of resolution would be the addition of the following to the constitution: after the completion of their term, the National Chair shall serve a six month term on the National Executive Committee with the title of Past Chair. As the Past Chair, they shall have the right to voice but not to vote.



• RECOMMEND TO CSC THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NEW POLICY OR THE AMENDMENT OF AN EXISTING POLICY
  • A policy is a general statement of principles, goals and intended action on any matter or issue of concern to the CACs. It may set direction for the NEC in the conduct of its own internal affairs, or it may define how the NEC can influence CSC to act. A policy can be simply stated in just one sentence or outlined in detail in a multi-page document. An example of a policy recently adopted is: participants at the 2003 annual meeting authorized the National Executive Committee to respond as soon as possible to the resolutions received from the regions and to report them at the next annual meeting or in the National Executive Committee's annual report.



• RECOMMEND THAT CSC ESTABLISH NEW PROGRAMS OR CHANGE EXISTING PROGRAMS IN ORDER TO IMPLEMENT POLICY
  • A program is the action plan by which a policy is actually carried out.



• RECOMMEND THAT CSC ESTABLISH NEW STRUCTURES OR REVIEW EXISTING STRUCTURES TO MAKE PROGRAMS EFFECTIVE AND SET A BUDGET TO PROVIDE THE NECESSARY FINANCIAL RESOURCES TO A PROGRAM (within TB allocation)
  • CSC has a responsibility to carry out programs and to ensure their effectiveness, establish accountability, and ensure that the necessary financial resources are provided. Responsibility is of two main types :
    1. a responsibility to ensure the program is put in place, that accountability and performance indicators are established, and that required resources are available, and
    2. a responsibility to actually perform the jobs that make up the program.
  • The first responsibility is usually carried out by management; the second, by staff. The former is a decision-making function; the latter, a service function. Resolutions can recommend that both the decision-making structures and the service structures required to ensure that the program works are in place.
  • Policies and programs will have little impact if "dollars" and staff are not made available to effectively carry out the necessary activities. The realities of budget constraints can put a good idea on the back burner if at least a minimum sum of money is not specially earmarked for the program. However, CACs should recognise that Treasury Board allocates funding to departments and that departments must operate within these allocations.

NOTE: Resolutions, of course, may touch on any matter of concern to CACs. The above description is provided simply to show the broad categories within which most resolutions will fall.