Merged: AFAP and the Mutual Benefit Fund

[meme]

As a staunch long term member of the AFAP, I am somewhat disgusted an embarrassed by the rants and misinformation regarding the AAPMBF board of Trustees linked to the home page on the AFAP’s website.
I am also a member of the AAPMBF and from what I can deduce after making some inquiries, is that there is no substantial evidence suggesting the AAPMBF Board of Trustees, with the exception of one member who incidentally holds the position of ‘Trustee’ in both organisations, has acted improperly. Clearly each organisation has it’s priorities to follow in accordance with the wishes of the respective membership. This fact alone provides fertile grounds for a ‘Conflict of Interest’ should any contentious issue arise albeit the high percentage of common membership.

If ever there was an argument for a Rule preventing AFAP office holders from simultaneously holding the position of Trustee on the AAPMBF board it is the very situation we find ourselves involved in at present.
I find it objectionable that the individual currently holding the position of Trustee on the boards of both organisations has not as a matter of principle, resigned from one of those positions or, at the very least ‘abstained ‘ from any contentious vote due to the potential for a ‘Conflict of Interest’.

Quite the contrary it seems. The subsequent behaviour from this individual who has clearly aligned himself with the AFAP in his capacity of AFAP Trustee is reprehensible. My sympathies go out to the AAPMBF board who it seems have a ‘Rogue’ trustee to deal with until at least the next AGM. Furthermore this extraordinary behaviour appears to be endorsed by the AFAP officers as it tends to support their apparent efforts to get at least some of their fingers on the AAPMBF pie.

Let’s be clear, I fully understand the AFAP’s desire for an increased influence over the AAPMBF as it appeared they were expecting up until the AAPMBF board decided in the interests of the AAPMBF members, and in accordance with the AAPMBF rules, to return to the original status quo.
I was somewhat relieved by this decision as I strongly believe there must be a clear separation between the organisations with regards to any financial and operational issues in order to protect the interests of the AAPMBF membership.

We are extremely fortunate have a number of very experienced trustees on the board of the AAPMBF who have for many years, displayed a high level of maturity and stewardship. The more than satisfactory financial results achieved during the recent downturn speak for themselves not to mention the ongoing support for the membership at large. I for one, very much hope we will be able to continue to enjoy the benefit of their service and expertise well into the foreseeable future. In order to do so, we must support them now.

I have no hesitation in voting in accordance with the recommendations of the AAPMBF Board of Trustees.
Don’t worry AFAP, I’m still on your side regarding the ‘Union stuff ‘ but, fingers off the MBF pleaseJ