· web viewjim carruthers called the 72 nd agm to order at 0903 and welcomed all attendees. he...

72nd ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING THE NAVAL ASSOCIATION OF CANADA - L’ASSOCIATION NAVALE DU CANADA

Saturday 21 October 2017HMCS Cabot, St. John’s, Newfoundland

72.1 Welcome by the National President

Jim Carruthers called the 72 nd AGM to order at 0903 and welcomed all attendees. He thanked the Newfoundland Branch, led by Wayne Ludlow, the Sponsors of the Conference, NAC Director Ed Williams and all the volunteers for hosting the Conference and AGM. He congratulated them all for their excellent program and organization of events.

72.1.1 Moment of Silence for Departed Comrades The members held a moment of silence for departed comrades as provided in Annex A to the Agenda with additional names Sandy Mactaggart, Don Stewart, David Leigh and George Henry Atwell.

72.2 Quorum Confirmation

The Secretary, David Soule, confirmed that there was a quorum.

72.3 Agenda and Past Minutes

72.3.1- Approval - Agenda

Motion: that the agenda be approved.Moved Mike Hoare; Seconded: Rod Hughes; Approved.

72.3.2 – Approval - Minutes of the 71st Annual General Meeting

The minutes of the 71st minutes were presented for amendment and approval.

Motion: that the minutes of the 71st AGM be approved.Moved: William (Bill) Thomas; Seconded: Sherry Richardson; Approved.

72.4 Business Arising from 72.3.2

The Secretary reported that there was no outstanding business arising from the previous minutes not captured in the agenda for this meeting.

72.5 Report by the National President

Jim Carruthers reminded those present of NAC’s three pillars; it is an alumni association for retired and serving military members, a professional home in which we seek to inform serving officers and our members through mediums such as NAC News and professional papers (example: Dan Sing’s recent paper on the assessment of the threat) and use these to attract new members and become engaged in NAC, and the third pillar which is focused on educating Canadians of the need for an effective and capable navy.

Since the last meeting where “We”, the NAC leadership, was wondering how NAC could participate and influence the outcome of the Government’s Defence Policy Review (DPR), a lot

72nd AGM Minutes - 21 October 2017 of 17 Draft 001 for website

has transpired. Our goal was to convince the Government of the need for an effective and capable navy. We put a lot of effort into this effort. NAC members wrote papers, NAC sponsored two special editions of the Canadian Naval Review, NAC helped the Navy fund the publication of Leadmark 2050, held a top-notch conference in the Fall of 2016 which addressed issues related to the Defence Review. NAC members appeared before the House of Commons and Senate Defence Committees. The Committees subsequently asked the NAC to submit an assessment of capability gaps and other ideas about the Navy, which we put forward. The President assessed that NAC did have a significant impact on the outcome of the Review. While some members may argue that the requirement should be for a larger Fleet, the President offered that the DPR result, whereby the Government called for 15 fully capable warships and updating the submarine service, was unexpected. In the President’s opinion, he and others, including many senior RCN officers, were surprised at the positive result given that Commanders of the Navy over the preceding years had walked back on the numbers of ships required for the Navy.

He was noted that that this effort was successful because it was based on solid research and the presentation the facts on issues through foundational work. This is not conducted by being in the media headlines but by providing the Government with fact-based research.

The President said that the biggest challenge going forward is recruitment. He said we need to connect with the Naval Reserve divisions across Canada, connect with the RCN in the 3 major naval cities to become more effective, attract young people as well as attract highly qualified people. This effort will cause other things will fall into place because we will have the membership necessary to pursue goals such as the naval affairs program.

The President thanked the NAC Chairs for their work and support over the years, and the committees they represent who do the work of the NAC. He then thanked the committee chairs; Ray Zuliani (Awards), Mike Morres (Endowment Fund) Jim Humphies (Nominating) Ed Williams and William (Bill) Thomas (Membership), Dan Sing (Naval Affairs), King Wan, Ken Lait, and David Soule.

The President then said that over the next few months, the incoming Board would need to have a fresh look at where NAC was at. Through events like the BOA Gala, the organization was on a solid financial footing and could take on new challenges like never before. He noted that Dan Sing would be addressing the AGM and follow-on BOD meeting where Dan would present some new ideas on naval affairs for consideration.

The President thanked those in attendance and other members for making the NAC work.

72.6 Treasurer's Report

King Wan thanked Jim Carruthers for his support and then began his review of the prepared financial statements for 2016. King thanked Ottawa Branch for their fund-raising efforts associated with the BOA Gala and noted these funds were now supporting naval affairs activities as the President had mentioned earlier. He noted that membership numbers were in decline but that the NAC, at the present time, was maintaining a healthy balance. King said that while no representative from the Endowment Fund was in attendance, the Fund was doing very well. He also noted that he was engaged with an investment company to invest some of the revenue generated by events such as the BOA Gala and conferences, into longer term savings to generate additional revenue.

Rod Hughes asked if we have an investment policy. The President responded by saying the policy was to invest in conservative investments. Rod noted that there is no written policy for guidance. The President responded that this was something to raise with the new Board. The


Treasurer said he agreed with Rod Hughes and said he was looking forward to the new Board providing him with guidance on an investment policy that should be pursued.

72.7 Acceptance of Financial Statement 2016

Motion: that the Naval Association of Canada Financial Statements dated December 31, 2016 (Unaudited) be approved. Moved: King Wan; Seconded: Paul Baiden: Approved

72.8 Appointment of Reviewer

Motion: that the accounting firm Allen&Krauel Inc. of Victoria BC be appointed and approved as reviewers for 2017.Moved: King Wan; Seconded: Rod Hughes: Approved.

72.9 Election of Directors The Secretary thanked members for voting, especially those who provided input with the intent of improving the process for next year.

Six Director positions were open and there were seven nominees. The following new Directors were elected to three-year terms: Rod Hughes, Brian Cook, Michael Hoare, Mark Phillips, Ian Parker, and Barry Walker.

72.10 Reports

72.10.1 Membership

Ed Williams reported on membership. He noted that the current membership numbers were roughly 1108 or so members. He noted that these numbers were not definitive because they were based on when in the year NAC received membership updates from the Branches and these differed (the President noted some Branches were late or had not reported the latest information). He also noted that until 2012 membership was about 1400 or so and had fallen to around 1200 by 2012. Since then it has continued a slow decline to its current membership of 1108. He reviewed the Branch membership numbers, noting while Ottawa’s membership had grown significantly, several Branches had seen significant decline. (Editorial Note: Windsor Branch no longer exists)

Ed Williams said, that in his opinion, a change in attitude was required. The NOAC has transitioned from the former NOAC to NAC and was a civilian organization. In his view we needed to recruit civilians who were interested in supporting the need for a strong Navy and the best way to do this was to engage in personal contact with potential candidates. It was not sufficient to simply send out a membership renewal notice, but a follow-up with personal contact was essential. He concluded that there is work to be done, in the short and long term in regard membership.

Bill Thomas then addressed the AGM in regard the membership survey which he had sent out to in early 2017 to the Branches. His report and recommendations, which are attached to these minutes, were based on input from 11 Branches. One of his major observations was that NAC’s local Branches are truly unique and have their own set of challenges in attracting new members. The survey included means that Branches could address membership issues as


well as ways that NAC National could support the Branches. He provided a detailed brief of the survey results and recommendations.

An invigorating general discussion ensued with members contributing their ideas on how to address membership. A number of ideas were put forward, and experiences shared on efforts to attract new members. The discussion included the importance of Starshell to the membership as well as the cost and distribution. The President summed up the discussion noting there are tried and true methods to attract new members and that each Branch has its own challenges; the future of our organization depends on it.

Motion: accept the report on membership as tabled by the Membership Committee (as attached to these minutes)Moved: Ed Williams: Seconded:

72.10.2 Naval Affairs

Daniel Sing, Director of Naval Affairs, provided an update on Naval Affairs. Before providing an information brief concerning a proposed Naval Affairs Strategy and Plan, he made two points. He reminded the gathering of the creation and importance of NAC’s 11 key messages that were published in January 2016 via NAC News – Issue 134. He then reminded everyone of the positive naval outcome of the new defence policy released by the Government in June 2017. He finally presented, for information, the proposed Naval Affairs Strategy and Plan, by way of a 14-slide presentation, which, after a few questions and answers, met with the gathered members’ general satisfaction.

During the follow-on discussion a number of points were raised including the fact that NAC naval affairs is based on education, there are very clear “silos” as to how funds raised through activities such the BOA are used, there is a means for members to engage in debate through media such as “Starshell”, and the difference between an article or letter to the editor that is NAC endorsed and one that is an individual’s opinion. The discussion concluded with Daniel Sing noting that the proposal he presented would be brought forward to the follow-on NAC Board of Directors meeting scheduled after this AGM.

72.11 New Business

72.11.1 HMCS SACKVILLE

The President provided background for a decision not to put forward a motion from NSNAC, that NAC consider a standing/recurring funding request from the NAC Endowment Fund for HMCS Sackville. He noted that he was opposed to this motion for a number of reasons including that there have been several attempts in the past for similar motions and this would remove the decision-making authority from those responsible for determining Endowment Fund grants in the future. He also said that in his view the needs of SACKVILLE were well beyond the scope of what this funding request would provide. He told the AGM that he had emailed Peter Hayden (President, NSNAC) to note his concern.

Jim Reddy (NAC member, current CO of SACKVILLE, and member of the Canadian Naval Memorial Trust) provided the AGM with an update on the very poor condition and status of the ship, noting the very serious challenges that lie ahead to ensure the ship remains “afloat”. He also noted the concerns in regard the proposed motion and that it would not be tabled. SACKVILLE needs a major refit and the financial arrangement for receiving support from the RCN, which has been in place for some time, is no longer possible. While alternative funding arrangements are under investigation, this will take time. In the interim the Trust has identified


some funding necessary to address very short-term “afloat” concerns but major funding is required to ensure the ship receives a proper refit. All present expressed their concerns and support. The President concluded the discussion by noting that NAC awaits further updates on the issue and will support efforts to ensure SACKVILLE indeed has a future.

72.11.2 Starshell

The President provided an update in regard the search for a new editor as well as look at the cost of the publication. Currently Starshell consumes upwards of 70% of the NAC operating budget. The President noted some have opined that membership dues should be increased, but he was strongly opposed. He believes there is a future for Starshell and good options exist to reduce its cost and continue to fund the publication as it is an important publication for members.

72.11.3 AGM 2018

At present there is no host for the 2018 AGM. In 2019 NOABC will host the AGM. A general discussion ensued in regard the lack of a 2018 host and issues related to hosting an AGM and conference in general. This item will be addressed by the incoming NAC Board of Directors.

Motion - a vote of thanks to NAC-Ottawa for their efforts in regard their efforts over the years for the BOA Gala and conferencesMoved: John Maclean; Seconded: Bill Thomas

72.12 Concluding Remarks

Jim Carruthers thanked all attendees for their participation in the AGM and support over the years during his presidency.

Edgar Williams and Daniel Sing seized the floor to take the opportunity to thank Jim Carruthers, the outgoing President, for his service to the NAC, the RCN and the country. Small tokens of appreciation were presented to Jim, and all gave him a standing ovation and wished him all the best moving forward.

72.13 Adjournment

The AGM was adjourned at 1222.

Submitted Sponsored by President, NACDavid Soule Jim CarruthersSecretary President


THE NAVAL ASSOCIATION OF CANADA

L’ASSOCIATION NAVALE DU CANADA

72nd ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

SATURDAY 21 OCTOBER 2017

At HMCS Cabot

COMMENCING AT 0900

AGENDA


72.1 Welcome by the National President

72.1.1 Moment of Silence for Departed Comrades Secretary

72.2 Quorum Confirmation President

72.3

72.3.1

72.3.2

Approval:

Agenda

Minutes of the 71stth AGM held October 21st, 2016

Secretary

Secretary

72.4 Business Arising from the 72.3.2 Secretary

72.5 Report by the National President President

72.6 Treasurer's Report Treasurer

72.7 Acceptance of Financial Statement 2016 Treasurer

72.8 Appointment of Reviewer Treasurer

72.9 Election of Directors President

72.1

0

Reports Secretary

72.1

1

Membership Ed Williams

72.1

2

Annual Conference Schedule Secretary

72.1

3

New Business President

72.1

4

72.1

5

Naval Affairs

AGM 2018

Daniel Sing

Secretary

72.1

6

Concluding Remarks President

72.1

7

Adjournment President

Membership Survey Report to NAC AGM, October 21, 2017 For several years, our AGM has noticed two membership trends: increasing

membership in the Ottawa Branch, and declining membership everywhere else. Consequently, the membership committee was tasked with conducting a survey to gather information that might shed some light on these trends, and to recommend some actions that might encourage more widespread increases in membership. In the first quarter of 2017 a survey was sent to all 14 Branches of the Naval Association of Canada, of whom 11 replied. The only Branches who did not reply, even after reminders, were Edmonton, Windsor, and Montreal. In March, all responses received were sent to all branches, together with a two page summary identifying common and noteworthy trends and suggestions. This report expands on that summary by identifying and recommending specific actions at both the branch and national levels, that will hopefully increase interest, and assist in recruiting new members .

A. Recommendations Directed to BranchesThe single most important factor in determining the future growth of the various

Branch units is the way they choose to see themselves: as retired officers of the pre-unification navy and naval reserve, who gather together regularly and nostalgically as “officers and gentlemen”; or as persons of varied backgrounds interested in: educating Canadians on the importance of maintaining an effective navy; preserving an awareness of our Maritime heritage; supporting youth and activities encouraging them to consider careers in the navy or maritime enterprises; supporting those in such careers who by misfortune, health, or age, are no longer able to fully support themselves; and providing opportunities to foster camaraderie among those with an experience of service to Canada, and an affinity for the sea and nautical interests.

Those who choose the former identity will find the field for recruitment dwindles with every year, and is guaranteed to disappear entirely within the next 20 years. Those who choose the latter will find the more they expand their vision, the more recruits they will find.

1. Offer value for your membership fee: Annual Branch Fees range form a low of $5 (for serving or spouses) in Thunder Bay, to a high of $40.00 in Ottawa and Toronto. Membership categories such as those mentioned above can encourage recruitment, as well as the offering of free memberships for the first year, or part year ( as does Toronto to anyone who signs up after June).

2. Make full use of your National Website Branch Page: It's free, easy to use, can be used to receive membership payments, and brings your members into contact with the full range of services offered by the national body. Most importantly, free help is readily available to those taking on the responsibility of keeping your information updated. You do not need to be trained in web or computer software design to maintain your page.

3. Meet regularly: Preferably with food and drink. More importantly, with speakers from various fields in the community – you will become better informed, and they and their acquaintances will learn more about all things naval. Some will even become members. Hold them at times the folks you'd like to recruit can get there.


4. Use the Internet to communicate frequently: Open a Facebook Page, take lots of pictures, and post them. Include humor and links to all things naval. Email information at least monthly to all members ( you'll be amazed how many do have an e-address) include humour – people will start to look for it and will contact you if they're moving. Do a regular newsletter and email it (it's almost free to do so).

5. Develop as close a relationship with your Reserve Division as you can. Whenever possible, meet in their facilities. Show up at all their special parades and events. ASK HOW YOU CAN HELP THEM – recruit, become better known in the community, etc... Offer scholarships or awards for outstanding performance and/or supportive behaviour. If possible, take out associate memberships in the wardroom and or messes, and use them to get to know the people, especially those nearing retirement. Always invite them to your special (and regular events).

6. If you enjoy what your Branch does – tell everybody you meet.: and invite them to come along and enjoy it with you. All of the research points to personal invitation and word-of-mouth as the most effective recruitment and marketing systems.

7. Recruit directly from declining Veterans Associations in your local area: especially if they're considering closing (RCNA's, NVA's, RCL's). Offer them hospitality as a place to continue to get together and indulge in nostalgia. Alternatively, actively support their fund-raising and special events ( they may do it better than you do...)

B. Recommendations directed to the Board of Directors & Executive.If it is to retain its national character beyond the centres of Ottawa, Esquimalt,

and Halifax, NAC needs to focus as much of its attention on supporting activities in the inland urban areas as it does in the Naval Command Centres. The post-unification Navy seems to have lost sight of the critical importance of the Naval Reserves in educating Canadians on the importance of maintaining an effective Navy. As its founder Rear Adm Walter Hose observed, it would be “Reservists, who would help educate the public and create a sea-consciousness among Canadians. “ If the current RCN can't or won't see the vital importance of the Reserve Divisions, we become the only other agency in a position to alleviate “maritime blindness”on a continuing basis.

1. Offer increased value for the membership fee: By offering grants to Branches to conduct and promote events for public education in support of an effective navy, and/or our maritime heritage; by offering grants to develop local branch web pages and social media presence; by preparing more resources for outreach and recruitment of the quality of “Our Navy”.

2. Planning for and training a successor to continue the distribution of the News Links currently being provided by Jim Carruthers. It is our most regular and valued communication arriving regularly in our inboxes.

3. Planning for and training a successor to continue the editing and distribution of Starshell. And in particular, “pushing” it into member's email inboxes, rather than simply making it available on the national Website. It provides both depth and history to augment the current affairs of the news Links.


4. Planning for and training a successor to continue the editing of our National Web Site, and to recruit and provide support to Branches who make use of their local page on the national site.

5. Preparing a “Membership Benefits” brochure template in digital form, to which local content can be added, including a “Narrative Budget” page with graphics, showing what is accomplished with each dollar of fees and donations.

6. Encouraging all Branches to turn over the collecting of membership fees to the online process: by maintaining and promoting that feature on the branch Web page, providing a monthly rebate of branch membership fees, and issuing an annual membership card.

7. Using a standard form for on-line membership: which includes a mandatory listing of all Branches ( local fee stated ) one or more of which must be checked off to complete the registration. (see attached sample)

8. Initiating an annual reminder in December for renewal of membership delivered in ”push” form with attached on-line form to all member e-addresses.

9. Developing a “Departure Kit” promoting NAC membership to be delivered by Branches to their local Reserve Divisions and CF Bases as a gift to retiring members.

Respectfully Submitted,

Wm. C. Thomas

September 27, 2017


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