Historical Vote to Transform NZ Red Cross
NEWS RELEASE
9 November 2009
The 78th annual National Council meeting of New Zealand Red Cross that was held in Wellington over the weekend (7 – 8 November) saw the membership pass a unanimous vote accepting a new constitution designed to revitalise the humanitarian organisation for the 21st century.
The vote marks the
first substantial time the constitution has been changed
since 1993.
Changes to the constitution are
necessary to enable the implementation of a project that
will transform the governance structure of New Zealand Red
Cross.
After nationwide consultation conducted over
the past nine months, the new constitution was presented to
the National Council meeting on Sunday.
Penny Mason,
New Zealand Red Cross National President, says the
governance changes will sustain New Zealand Red Cross’
relevance in the 21st century, and to focus on local
communities, by empowering the membership and volunteers.
“This vote marks an historical and exciting moment
for Red Cross here in New Zealand. I commend the National
Board and membership in their courage to pursue this
challenge. I am confident that the changes we have proposed
will make a real difference for Red Cross as we progress
towards the future,” says Mrs Mason.
New Zealand
Red Cross will undertake to grow and diversify the
membership of the organisation and ensure that Red Cross
people feel empowered, valued and fulfilled by the work they
are doing. It will also ensure that there is a Red Cross
presence throughout the country.
Under the new
governance structures New Zealand Red Cross will
disestablish the current six regional boards and in their
place establish 16 Area Councils across the country. Area
Councils will have a closer link to their communities, a
greater understanding of community needs and a better
understanding of how Red Cross can make a real local
difference.
The National Council also re-elected
Penny Mason in her current position of National President
for another three years and they also re-elected Vice
President John Evans for a further one year term.
New Zealand Red Cross has been a part of the New
Zealand community since 1931 and is part of the world’s
largest humanitarian network – present around the globe
for 150 years.
ENDS