Decisions Log (Trustees Management Meetings & A.G.M.s)

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2025

 

TRUSTEES MEETING (00.09.25)

TRUSTEES MEETING (00.06.25)

TRUSTEES MEETING (00.02.25)

2024

A.G.M. (14.11.24)

  1. Trustees Charity Commission Financial Report 2023/2024: £2,617 operating surplus generated in the year. Including a £2,100 generous donation. Noted that there is therefore only a small    surplus in real terms which may result in the need to increase membership fees from 2026 e.g. £25 to £30.   
  2. Total cash funds at year end: £37,419   
  3. Future risks – noted possible developments with the ISDS trials diary being on workingsheepdogs.co.uk  given the possibility that ISDS may partner with this ‘new’ website. Agreed that the Society will continue to provide basic information re open trials as now and use a link from our results page. If ISDS requires more ‘mandatory’ information the position will be reviewed as there may be significant implications for the future of the society

Motions: Nursery rules – to remove rule # 5 “After the 1st August a dog placed 1st to 6th in an Open trial will be allowed to continue to compete in the current season but not future years. A dog so placed before the 1st August (start) of the current season will be unable to compete in any future Heats”. The effect is that dogs can therefore be placed in any class at any time during the current trial year. The key requirement remains that “every dog competing must be under 3 years of age from the 1st November of the current trial year” (rule # 3). Proposed by trustees

LOST 24 of 33 VOTED AGAINST

Class 2 trial entry criteria: added exclusion Dosbarth 2/Class 2 currently states “Dogs who have not been placed 1st or 2nd in an Open trial, held anywhere in the world”. Add: “Class is for UK based handlers only. Dogs who have not been placed 1st or 2nd in an Open trial, held anywhere in the world”. The problem is that it is not possible to verify the trials history of non UK dogs. There should be minimal impact on trials as most will opt to run in the Open or ‘Non UK’ classes. Proposed by trustees

PASSED OVERWHELMINGLY

 

TRUSTEES MEETING (26.09.24)

  1. Approached by Cefn Gwlad (S4C TV programme) to suggest characters for possible inclusion in planned programme. Agreed ‘shortlist’ drawn up – to be asked whether they wish to be considered. 
  2. Motions (2) for AGM  considered and agreed
  3. Complaint about abusive language on trial field considered. Agreed in first instance to post reminder about conduct on social media 

TRUSTEES MEETING (20.06.24)

  1. Rhiwlas trophy to be awarded to Reserve Champion at Society trial.
  2. Sheep claims (reserves) to increase max. claim to £200 to reflect increase in sheep values and disposal costs.
  3. To approve Carol Melling videoing and posting on private group IF handler agrees (not live streaming). All costs to be met by her and viewers pay to join group.

TRUSTEES MEETING (15.02.24)

  1. To establish a banking sub-committee (to authorise payments)
  2. S&T to contact Cambridge EOD DNA research centre regarding their requirements e.g. are DNA swabs from reported deaf dogs sufficient or do dogs need to be confirmed deaf by BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test. Owner to process DNA swabs and receive DNA results in complete confidence. Society will consider meeting any associated costs and use media to promote once position is known.
  3. ISDS may propose to increase income by introducing a fee for each Open trial to be advertised on the ISDS website so that it is eligible for National points. This could be collected by the Society and paid to the ISDS e.g. £5/10 per year per trial. Agreed that this may have traction and the S&T (also an ISDS Council member) could support it if formally proposed by the ISDS.

 

2023

A.G.M. (16.11.23)

RESOLUTIONS

(1) Additional Society rules for trials: Proposed by Trustees “No sheep are to be run twice at the Society Championships double fetch final or the Nursery final”

PASSED

(2) Additional Nursery rule: Proposed by Trustees (amended as follows) “Handlers can only qualify two (2) dogs for the nursery final. If they qualify more than two the handler can choose which two go into the final”.

PASSED

TRUSTEES MEETING (28.09.23)

  1. Individual paying members – noted 15 shortfall (200 target). To review the impact on achieving a balanced budget during 2023/2024. Noted that the Society Championships trial is still the main factor in determining whether the Society makes an annual surplus or deficit. If required reserves are used to cover any annual deficit i.e. in accordance with the financial procedures ‘to avoid cash flow problems’ and for ‘planned events’.
  2. Reserves: To purchase 50 red and 10 yellow elastic collars (secretary to action).
  3. To purchase a set of 4 rechargeable walkie talkies. Not to purchase course ‘plastic barriers’ at this time.
  4. AGM:To adopt new style (shortened) meeting to include judging clinic and bar meal.To propose the resolutions noted above at the AGM.
  5. John Jones (replacement required) and Rhiwlas trophies: Due to declining interest and change in expectations, to stop awarding these trophies at nominated trials from 2024 (secretary to hold).

TRUSTEES MEETING (29.06.23)

  1. Reserves: Rhosgoch field: to obtain costing to install 2 new gateways at The Ring (one in each corner of the dividing hedge) subject to obtaining the landowners permission. To develop venue as National/International type course, to foster good relations with the landowner and help maintain trialing on Anglesey (Gwynfor Owen).To obtain costing for new course equipment: for the Society i.e. 8 plastic barriers (Secretary) and to fabricate a Pratley type gate and pen (Arwel L. Owen).
  2. To promote on Society media a series of Coaching (mentor) trials (‘fun days’); slightly redefined from that in the 2023 diary (page 18) to read “non-competitive for new and inexperienced handlers”. (Secretary)
  3. Second such event to be advertised – Bodfari (Ceri Rundle) on the 16th July (Secretary)
  4. To ask members via Facebook group to host such an event with the aim of pulling together a worthwhile series across the 6 counties. Important to stress the importance of using good well dogged sheep. Add to AGM agenda if necessary. (Secretary)
  5. Society to provide rosettes for participants. (Secretary)
  6. Dinner / AGM 2023: To hold a judging clinic (with meal) in conjunction with the AGM on the 16th November as a trial to see if this approach increases the number of members participating in the AGM. Secretary to plan with Melangell Aled. (Secretary)

TRUSTEES MEETING (16.02.23)

  1. AGM Resolution 2022 rework: ‘Fresh sheep must be used in every Society trial final e.g. Championships (incl. young handlers and brace) and Nursery finals (Society and All Wales). No sheep to be run twice’ . Proposed  ‘No sheep are to be run twice at the Society Championships double fetch final or the Nursery final’ – to be put to 2023 AGM
  2. AGM 2023, agreed to add discussion topic: “Potential new rules for trials (4 max.); to take to ISDS Welsh Directors meeting in December as possible motions for ISDS AGM January 2024”.

2022

A.G.M. (10.11.22) 

Safeguarding the welfare of dogs and sheep: Agreed that the Society should adopt the paper presented with minor amendments and post on the website etc. with immediate effect, noting that it may be further amended if the ISDS produce a similar paper.

Defibrillator purchase: Agreed to pursue grant offer and purchase defibrillator from reserves for use at Society trials and to be made available for affiliated trials to loan.

RESOLUTIONS 

(1) Additions to Society and Nursery rules (currently advisories): Proposed: Trustees

Fresh sheep must be used in every Society trial final e.g. Championships (incl. young handlers and brace) and Nursery finals (Society and All Wales). No sheep to be run twice.

LOST – to be reworked and presented at next AGM

If there are sufficient sheep to run 4, that a shed be included in each Nursery heat and all other affiliated trials are encouraged to adopt the same rule.

LOST

(2) Nursery Heats 2023: It is proposed that a ‘puppy class’ be included in each heat. Entry criteria – “Dog not been on a trial field before the 1st August of the current year”. This will give younger dogs valuable early experience of trials (South Wales have similar class). Proposed: Montgomeryshire members

LOST

(3) Amend Nursery rule [4] for completeness: “A dog must not have been the winner of any previous NWSDS [add – or All Wales] Nursery Final”. Proposed: Arwel Staples

PASSED

(4) That the membership fee for members aged under 18 be reduced to £10 from 2023 (currently applied to approximately 10 i.e. £150 lost income). Proposed: Trustees

PASSED

 (5) Addition to Nursery rules: “If a Nursery Heat is being with other classes handlers must run their dogs in the nursery heat first”. Proposed: from the floor (Gwynfor Owen and seconded Dylan Davies) 

PASSED

TRUSTEES MEETING (15.09.22)

  1. Reserves – £750 approx . expenditure (plus £300 grant) on defibrillator agreed in principle. To be put to members at 2022 AGM for information to gauge opinion before placing order.
  2. Agreed not to hold a dinner in 2022 and present a dinner & AGM option for 2023 to the 2022 AGM.

TRUSTEES MEETING (26.06.22)

Non quorate – general administration only 

TRUSTEES MEETING (13.02.22)

  1. Agreed to allow live streaming if requested at NWSDS trials provided there is no cost to NWSDS  
  2. Agreed to discuss ‘viability’ of holding the annual dinner at the next meeting.
  3. Agreed to post the following ‘advisories’ on media – Nursery season 2022: a) fresh sheep should be used for each run (no sheep to run twice) b) if there are sufficient sheep to run 4, that a shed be included in the trial c) 4 nations nursery competition 2023: “a team of ten from their nursery final” will be invited to compete (confirmed 25.02.22). 

2021

A.G.M. RESOLUTIONS (02.12.21 reconvened on the 11.12.21) 

(1) Review: NWSDS rule (to continue or rescind): “Any dogs used at the letting out pen at the annual NWSDS Championships should be easily identifiable e.g. by wearing a bright / florescent dog coat / jacket. Affiliated Societies are encouraged to adopt the same rule” [Passed at 2019 AGM]  

PASSED – to continue / included in diary

(2) Review: NWSDS sponsorship of Mentor trials (to continue or rescind): “The Society will provide financial support, if requested (max £50 per trial up to £500 per annum), for dedicated non-competitive Mentor trials i.e. experienced handlers will provide mentoring at a trial open to new and inexperienced handlers (less than 5 years trialing) only or in conjunction with a local class or nursery. Mentors will accompany handlers at the post and if helpful can accompany them walking the course during their run(s). [Passed at 2019 AGM]

Very low uptake but considered important to encourage new handlers therefore

PASSED – to continue / included in diary 

AND to also use Society reserves to sponsor local trials/new trials on request.

PASSED – to include in diary and highlight to trial secretaries

(3) Rules: Nursery Heats entry fee: To confirm that the entry fee for each dog is £5 (up from £3). Half to go to NWSDS as present for insurances etc.

PASSED – adopted / included in rules / diary

 (4) Policies and Procedures: Trustees propose that members note the list of current policies and procedures (copies available from the secretary and some on website).

Members code of conduct

Risk register

Disciplinary procedure

Complaints

Equal opportunities

Data protection GDPR

Financial controls

Safeguarding

Trustees: Conflicts of interest & Code of conduct (adopted Dec. 2018)

Decisions archive (on website)

Charity Commission Regulatory advice (CIO)

Private benefit (CIO)

Charitable purpose (CIO)

Fees – wavering (CIO)

PASSED – noted by members

 (5) New organisation and constitution

North Wales Sheep Dog Society has formed a new Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO – registered charity number 1193729) essentially to safeguard trustees’ interests in keeping with current Charity law.

Objects:

The promotion of agriculture, for the public benefit, in particular but not exclusively by:

Promoting responsible working sheepdog ownership, breeding and training.

Promoting matters pertaining to dog welfare in general.

Improving the working standard of working sheepdogs by organising and promoting open and members only sheepdog trials.

The trustees therefore propose to dissolve the current Charitable Unincorporated Association (CUO – registered charity number 508432) in accordance with section 6 of the constitution……….

Trustees propose that members:

  1. Approve the new CIO constitution (circulated and tabled).
  2. Dissolve the current CUO in accordance with section 6 of the constitution.
  3. Approve the transfer of all assets and money from the current CUO to the new CIO in accordance with 6 (3) (b).

PASSED – APPROVED 1, 2 and 3 ABOVE  [Charity Commission to be informed etc.]

(6) CIO Trustees 2022: Trustees propose that members nominate and elect the following new area trustees and confirm the named individuals as trustees and the chair and vice chair positions

 Anglesey: Gwynfor Owen (chair)                         Anglesey: Paul Roberts

Caernarfonshire: Cai Pritchard (vice chair)          Caernarfonshire: Kate Pritchard

Denbighshire: [Beate Behr co-opted]                  Denbighshire: Aled Owen (new)

Flintshire: Keith Jones                                          Flintshire: [Osian Jones co-opted]

Meirionethshire: Dylan Davies                            Meirionethshire: [Kevin Davies co-opted]

Montgomeryshire: Arwel Jones (new)                Montgomeryshire: [Tom Bebb co-opted]

PASSED – approved 

 (7) Membership subscriptions 2022*: To ensure that the Society operates within a sustainable baseline (balanced) budget, Trustees propose the following – 

a) Individual membership fee is increased from £15 to £25 (SWSDTA £25)

      * to include cost of a printed / posted diary 

 b) Affiliated trial societies membership fee remains unchanged at £15 including sheep insurance [£150 limit] + £15           public liability insurance [break even sum] = £30

     (SWSDTA £10 including public liability insurance + £10 sheep insurance [£80 limit] = £20)

    * CIO constitution requires members to approve.

PASSED – included in diary etc.

(8) Nursery rules 2022: Trustees propose that the minimum number of runs required in each   heat in order to qualify for the final is 15

 FAILED –  not adopted

(9) DOSBARTH 3/CLASS 3: “UK & Ireland based handlers (not dogs) that have not won a single prize of more than £15 anywhere in the world”. Uptake has been very poor and trustees reluctantly propose that this class be removed. Motion 2 provides an alternative way of encouraging young and new handlers.

FAILED – continue / included in diary and highlight with trial secretaries

 (10) DOSBARTH 2/CLASS 2 (novice): Trustees propose that current Class 2 (novice) criteria “ Dogs who have not been placed 1st or 2nd in an Open trial, held anywhere in the world” be amended to – “Dogs who have not won more than three Class 2 trials OR been placed 1st or 2nd in an Open trial, held anywhere in the world”.

 FAILED –  not adopted

 

TRUSTEES MEETING (14.10.21)

  1. AGM 2021 motions – agreed 10 motions to be tabled (full details with AGM papers) i.e. review dog jackets / local trials sponsorship / nursery entry fee £5 / policies and procedures available / dissolve current charity and transfer assets to new / CIO trustees 2022 / individual membership fees 2022 £25 (trials no change) / min. number of dogs to run in nursery heat to qualify 15 / remove Class 3 / amend Class 2. 
  2. Succession planning – Agreed that the chair or vice chair be advised of organisational arrangements on appointment by the S&T.
  3. Nursery final 20th November – Agreed Judge: Mark Bufton and Course Director: Emyr Ellis (if available).
  4. Live streaming – Agreed to contact Carol Mellin in 2022 to review her use of inplayer and interest in streaming Champs and Nursery finals.
  5. Annual dinner 27th November – Agreed that due to the ongoing uncertainties concerning Covid-19 restrictions to reluctantly cancel this years dinner and award trophies at the AGM instead.

TRUSTEES MEETING (27.06.21)

  1. Agreed to propose at the AGM 2021 that individual subscriptions (not trials) are increased by £5 (from £15 to £20 from 1st Jan. 2022).
  2. Policies & Procedures – Equal opportunities; Trustees ‘conflicts of interest’ & ‘code of conduct’ and Code of conduct (members) policies circulated. Agreed to report to AGM 2021 and include in the new CIO policies and procedures list.
  3. Purpose, Charitable purpose, Private benefit and No Fees policies as required (suggested) by the Charity Commission circulated and discussed. Agreed to adopt all the policies and include in the new CIO policies and procedures list.
  4. Diary 2021 – produced as .pdf and circulated by email etc. and posted to approx. 70 unable to access. Agreed to propose to AGM 2021 that the same process in used in 2022 – will reduce costs by an estimated £500.
  5. Live streaming NWSD trials. Agreed that secretary approach Carol Mellin to see if she would be interested in streaming our events provided this generates an income.
  6. MyDogDNA®  (powered by wisdom panel). Agreed to share information on our Facebook group page and review take up.

TRUSTEES ZOOM MEETING (24.01.21)

  1. Agreed to propose at AGM 2021 that individual membership is increased by £10 to £25 (as SWSDTA from November 2021).
  2. Agreed not to hold an AGM (2020) on zoom and postpone until next due date 2nd December 2021.
  3. Agreed outside the rules (exceptional circumstances) to increase the 2021 Nursery entry fee to £5 (previously £3) – 50% to trial and 50% to NWSDS.
  4. Agreed diary details will be published on media i.e. private FB group for paid up members (as and when notified) and website (week before) and to produce a .pdf version of 2021 diary if it feasible (not a printed version).
  5. Agreed to purchase new PL/EL  insurance policy with effect from July 2021/2022 (subject to when trials can re start).
  6. RWAS – Agreed to propose the same judges and YH competitors as nominated in 2020 and include in the show schedule if held otherwise carry over to 2022.

2020

 TRUSTEES ZOOM MEETING (18.10.20)

  1. Trustees Indemnity Insurance: Agreed that quote for TII of £426.71 be included in an updated baseline budget for consideration of long term viability at the next meeting.
  2. Welsh ISDS Directors: Agreed that S&T to write to E.W. Edwards acting President to request update on next steps with regard to recent correspondence between Directors and Council i.e. to be followed up any  further? plans to share letters with Welsh members? NWSDS willing to allow use of their media platforms provided SWSDTA agree to do the same.
  3. Trustees : Agreed to nominate Gwynfor Owen (Anglesey) and to pursue vacancies for Caernarfonshire and Meirionnydd (Trustees).
  4. AGM 2020: As a result of covid-19 restrictions, agreed to postpone the planned 2020 AGM until 30th April 2021 at the latest otherwise next will be on 2nd December 2021. Any urgent matters requiring determination in the interim to be decided by email/messenger.
  5. Trials:Agreed to postpone the 2020 ‘Nursery Final’ until end of February 2021 at the latest.
  6. Diary: Agreed to produce 2021 diary in .pdf electronic form to control costs. To publish at the end of March to give maximum opportunity to include planned trials. Updates and changes to be posted on the website as presently.
  7. PL/EL Insurance: Agreed to cancel FUW insurance policy (August 2020/2021) to control costs. Cover to be rearranged from when required in 2021.
  8. Nursery Heats: Agreed to increase the entry fee for NWSDS Nursery Heats 2021 from £3 to £5 from 2021 – motion AGM
  9. Annual dinner: Confirmed that the 2020 Annual Dinner has been cancelled (covid-19 restrictions)

TRUSTEES ZOOM MEETING (25.06.20)

  1. Agreed that the Society’s position (including the ISDS) remains unchanged from that posted on the website and social media in March. If it is possible to socially gather and travel in the next few months in Wales, it may be possible to run a few local trials and complete elements  of the Nursery season BUT only if ISDS insurance which is currently voided is reinstated and local committees and communities are prepared to arrange/host trials. NWSDS cannot be associated in anyway with any event that is uninsured.
  2. Agreed that previous decision stands and 2021 diaries will NOT be sent to individual members who have not paid their 2020 subscription.
  3. Agreed that Trials who have not paid membership in 2020 will ONLY have a single line entry in the 2021 diary noting only the date and venue
  4. Agreed not to impose a rejoining fee of £5 in 2021 for unpaid members and trials.
  5. Agreed in view of the Covid-19 restrictions to ‘void’ the 2020 provisions. Consequently, the Chair will remain with Montgomeryshire for 2021 and that Anglesey will now take the Chair from 2022. Arrangements already made for the NWSDS Championships / Nursery Final / Dinner and Class 2 trials in 2020 can hopefully be revived and rearranged for 2021 (in full or in part).
  6. Also agreed that in these exceptional circumstances that the Trustees terms of office be adjusted accordingly – noting that Arwel Staples will still be replaced by Arwel Ll. Owen for Ynys Mon in 2021.

TRUSTEES MEETING (20.02.20)

  1. Agreed to post on website / FB offer of possible help from NWSDS members if needed by any Affiliated Trials which are finding it difficult to find sufficient committee members / helpers.
  2. Trustees Indemnity Insurance (TII) discussion paper considered – agreed S&T to obtain quote for further consideration at next meeting.
  3. Policies and procedures – motion AGM
  4. Disciplinary procedure – motion AGM
  5. Complaints procedure – motion AGM
  6. Agreed S&T remuneration (December 2020) in light of developments and charity  duties.
  7. NWSDS trials – agreed that the Committee should be advised of all arrangements for Championships trials agreed by the local committees e.g. judges, trial fields, number of sheep to be used etc. in order to maintain a minimum standard as far as practically possible.
  8. National Qualifying points – agreed that trials should continue to be encouraged to include a pen and single/shed as required to gain points e.g. within the same time limit if it helps!?
  9. Nursery Qualifying league table 2021 – agreed not to pursue.
  10. Mentor trials 2020 – noted that no trials have been organised to date but several nurseries have invited entries from locals/beginners (need to encourage more to follow suit).
  11. Agreed to propose increasing entry fee for Nursery Heats from £3 to £5 at AGM 2020 (half to NWSDS as now).
  12. Agreed to arrange first meeting in 2021 in January instead of February.

2019

AGM RESOLUTIONS

(1) Add to NWSDS rules: Any dogs used at the letting out pen at the annual NWSDS Championships should be easily identifiable e.g. by wearing a bright / fluorescent dog coat / jacket. Affiliated Societies are encouraged to adopt the same rule (deferred from 2018 AGM).

Proposed: Ceri Rundle Seconded: Sue Main

Amendment: to pilot 2020 and review at 2020 AGM

PASSED (for 16 / against 6)  

(2) Amend current rule 9: “Judges are expected to give points gained or lost at the end of the trial to competitors who request them through the Trial’s Secretary” ADD “Under no circumstances should judges be approached directly during or after the trial. Any instance will render the member liable to disciplinary action”

Proposed:  Chair   Seconded: Vice chair  

Amendment: ADD During and after the trial. “Competitors or their agents are prohibited from approaching a Judge to seek to discuss or influence the award of points. Such an approach is gross misconduct and will render them liable to investigation” ISDS rules for trials 6.2 zc.

PASSED 

(3) Nursery Rules no.5 Current: After the 1st August a dog placed 1st to 6th in an Open trial or winning a Class 2 will be allowed to continue to compete.

New: After the 1st August a dog placed 1st to 6th in an Open trial will be allowed to continue to compete in the current season but not future years.  A dog so placed before the 1st August of the current season will be unable to compete in any future Heats.

Proposed:  Chair   Seconded: Vice chair

PASSED

(4) Trial entry criteria Current: DOSBARTH 2/CLASS 2: Dogs who have not been placed 1st or 2nd in an Open trial, held anywhere in the world

New: DOSBARTH 2/CLASS 2: Dogs who have not been placed 1st or 2nd in an Open trial, held anywhere in the world. Dogs that have won two or more Class 2 trials must run in the ‘Combined’ class if one is available.

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair

FAILED

(5) NWSDS Class 3 sponsorship 2019 to 2021 (subject to annual review)

Take up by new and inexperienced handlers and dogs in 2019 was less than hoped so NWSDS sponsorship will unfortunately not be continued in 2020 and 2021 (Trustees decision). The total number of trials 17, total runs 40, average per trial 2.4. Cost from reserves £390.

Instead Affiliated Societies trials will be encouraged to run their own NWSDS Class 3

New entry criteria: “Handlers (not dogs) that have won no more than £15, anywhere in the world”. Entry fee £2. Prizes £5, £3, £2 or rosettes.

Amendment: UK & Ireland based handlers…..not won a single prize of more than £15

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair

PASSED

(6) NWSDS sponsorship Mentor trials: The Society will provide financial support, if requested (max £50 per trial up to £500 per annum), for dedicated Mentor trials i.e. experienced handlers will provide mentoring at a trial open to new and inexperienced handlers (less than 5 years trialing) only or in conjunction with a local class or Nursery Heat. Mentors will accompany handlers at the post and if helpful can accompany them walking the course during their run(s).

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair

Amendment: “non-competitive” & to pilot 2020 and review at 2020 AGM

PASSED

(7) CCDGC/NWSDS Class 2 trial: That the Vice Chair organises a standalone trial every year i.e. 2020 Anglesey.

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair

PASSED

(8) Society Championships: The young handler competition be restricted to competitors aged 21 or under (one class only) from 2020. The John Beck trophy for winner and the Magnox trophy for best OLF (same structure as the Singles Championship). Six cash prizes to be awarded £15, £10, £5, £5, £5, £5 (total £45)    (£90 current <18 and <25)

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair

PASSED

(9) Sheep insurance: Affiliated Trial Society’s membership includes sheep insurance in the event of any loss at a trial. It is proposed to ADD that “in the event of 2 claims being made in 2 recurring years a £50 excess per sheep will apply for the following 2 years”.

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair    

FAILED  

(10) NWSDS Disciplinary procedure: The Society currently does not have a written policy. It is proposed that the ISDS policy be adopted and adapted as necessary. 

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair

PASSED     

(11) Associated trials recommendations: To ensure consistency and fairness when a trial has 2 sessions,  entries for both sessions will be open / bookable at the same time on a ‘first come basis’ i.e. both sessions bookable on arrival. No pre booking, telephone bookings, or booking on behalf of absent handlers permitted.

To be noted in 2020 diary as: “Both sessions bookable from start time, no other bookings taken”

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair

FAILED (for 8 / against 12)  

(12) Associated trials recommendations: The entry fees for non-members of the NWSDS at all Affiliated Societies trials be £2 more than for paid up members in all classes. Membership to be determined by the competitor’s good faith.

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair

FAILED

(13) Associated trials recommendations (fund raising): The Society encourages Trials to notify the Secretary of donations given to  charitable causes so that they can be publicised on social media (to promote the Society’s charitable status).                                                

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair  

PASSED

(14) Associated trials recommendations: It is strongly recommended that a pen (means of containment with gate) and shed or single be included if practicable and required in order to qualify for National points. Note: may not be necessary if ISDS rules changed 2020.

 To be noted in 2020 Diary as  “National qualifying points awarded”.

Proposed: Chair   Seconded: Vice chair

PASSED

TRUSTEES MEETING (17.10.19)

  1. Agreed to propose at AGM what, if any, excesses should apply to any future sheep insurance claims.
  2. Agreed to purchase 50 Red and 10 Yellow sheep collars from reserves if ‘lycra’ pull over versions can be sourced.
  3. Agreed to seek sponsorship to purchase VL perpetual trophies (2) i.e. CSJ first option
  4. Confirmed that Gwynfor Owen and John Whiteley will be resigning at AGM
  5.  Agreed to hold an additional Nursery Heat at Newtown.
  6. Agreed to propose at AGM that the Society adopts and adapts as necessary the ISDS disciplinary procedure.
  7. Noted that EP, Denbigh has retired after many years timekeeping at trials. Agreed to offer him a meal at the Annual dinner.

TRUSTEES MEETING (27.06.19)

  1. Agreed to increase current year (2018/2019) S&T remuneration from £2,500 to £3,000 2018/2019. Commensurate with workload and payments in other areas.
  2. Young handlers 50% membership discount: NOT SUPPORTED
  3. Trustees information pack (responsibilities etc.) CIRCULATED.
  4. Agreed to propose at 2019 AGM that Vice Chair organises CCDGC/NWSDS standalone trial every year i.e. 2020 Anglesey.
  5. 2019 Victor Ludorum pilot commenced (on website).Award to be given at annual dinner (if pilot sustainable). ADD TO DAIRY 2020
  6. National qualifying points 2019. Agreed to strongly recommend inclusion of pen and shed at 2020 Open trials if practicable (Affiliated Societies Trials) & to note in Diary “qualifying points awarded”. ADD TO DAIRY 2020
  7. From 2019, in order to promote membership (including the annual diary) trial dates will only be advertised in the Farmers Guardian i.e. not ISDS website. New dates and any changes will continue to be posted on the website and social media: NOT SUPPORTED
  8. Nursery League qualification points system: NOT SUPPORTED

2018

AGM RESOLUTIONS (06.12.18)

1. Adopt a new (updated) constitution (17 pages): Charities Act 2011: “Charitable Unincorporated Association”. Original constitution 1975; amended 1984 and 1993.

Summary of key changes;

a) Twenty members entitled to vote upon the business to be conducted at the general meeting; or (ii) 5% of the total membership at the time, whichever is the greater.  

b) The number of Trustees shall not exceed 12 (twelve), whenever possible two from each of the six old Counties and not be less than 6 (six), whenever possible one from each of the six old Counties or an alternative configuration determined by the Trustees if necessary.

c) Each of the Trustees shall retire with effect from the conclusion of the annual general meeting next after his or her appointment but shall be eligible for re-election at that annual general meeting.

d) The maximum time any individual can be a Trustee is 3 (three) years (namely three elections) after which they cannot be re-elected for at least 1 (one) year.

e) The Trustee Management Committee quorum shall be one third of the total number of 12 (twelve) Trustees namely 4 (four)

f) Rules or bye-laws created by the Trustees will be presented to the membership for adoption by resolution at the next general meeting of the Charity. This will normally be at the AGM in December of each year.

g) The Charity in general meeting has the power to alter, add to or repeal all the rules.

Proposed: T. Emrys Jones (chair) Seconded: Trustees

PASSED (Charity Commission informed etc.)

2. Amend Additional NWSDS Rules (no. 7) from “Judges are expected whenever possible, to give out marks gained or lost as soon as possible after the completion of each run” to read

“Judges are expected, to give points gained or lost at the end of the trial to competitors who request them through the trial Secretary”

Existing rule not generally adhered to and therefore discredited.

To help young handlers / beginners in particular and those handlers wanting to evaluate their own or their dogs progress.

Proposed: T. Emrys Jones (chair) Seconded: Trustees

PASSED (added to rules/diary)

3. Remove Additional NWSDS Rules (no. 10) “The Committee accept no liability whatsoever for any loss or damage that may be caused during the Trials and that the Public are on the ground at their own risk.

Rule not compatible with current law. Affiliated Societies are encouraged to obtain Public Liability insurance. 

Proposed: T. Emrys Jones (chair) Seconded: Trustees

PASSED (removed from rules/diary)

4. Add to Additional NWSDS Rules “Any dogs used at the letting out pen at the annual NWSDS Championships should be easily identifiable e.g. by wearing a bright / florescent dog coat / jacket. Affiliated Societies are encouraged to adopt the same rule”

Proposed: Ceri Jones   Seconded: Sue Main

DEFERRED (added to 2019 motions)

5. Agree that NWSDS sponsors a maximum of 15 trials to the sum of £35 each for a free to enter Class 3 for Young handlers (<18) and Beginners (a max. of up to 2 calendar years trialing in last 10 years) to be held preferably on a separate day. A maximum of 15 trials to be sponsored each year for 3 years, subject to an annual review.

Approx. 25% of trials / £10, £5, £5 prize money plus £15 for trial = £525 max. per year.

Positive initiative to address concerns about low number of new handlers and to encourage beginners involved in clinics etc.

Positive use of reserves to actively promote Society’s charitable aims

Funding to come from a restricted reserve fund of £1,800 (3 years)

Proposed: T. Emrys Jones (chair) Seconded: Trustees

PASSED (added to diary)

6. Add to Additional NWSDS Rules “Entry requirement for Class 2: Dogs not having won 1st or 2nd in an Open trial OR not having won 1st or 2nd more than three times in a Class 2 trial.”   

Proposed: Beate Behr   Seconded: Cyril Humphreys

FAILED 

7. Nursery rules 2019

Replace the existing rules with the following (additions in bold):

a) ONLY NWSDS MEMBERS WHO ARE RESIDENT in the old counties of North Wales i.e. Anglesey, Caernarfonshire, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Merionethshire and Montgomeryshire

ARE ALLOWED to run in the NWSDS HEATS AND NURSERY FINAL

AND therefore allowed to represent NWSDS at the All Wales Nursery Final.

b) Every dog competing must:

i) Be under 3 years of age from the 1st November of the current year.

ii) Not have been placed 1st to 6th in an Open trial or won a Class 2 trial.

iii Not have been the winner of any previous NWSDS Nursery Final.

c) Competitors who qualify for the NWSDS Nursery Final must have provided a completed breeding form (form in annual diary) to the Secretary at least 2 weeks before the Final in order to run.

d) After the 1st October a nursery dog placed 1st to 6th in an Open trial or winning a Class 2 will be allowed to continue to compete.

e)Where any dog is excluded from the NWSDS Nursery Final by virtue of any of the above rules the next highest pointed dog in the relevant Heat(s) will qualify for the Final.

f) Entry fees: a common fee of £3.00 per dog. £1.50 in whole or part to cover trial expenses and £1.50 used to offset the cost of insurances.

g) Scored running cards may be requested from the Judge after each Heat.

h) The number of finalists will not be less than 30 or more than 36 irrespective of the number of qualifying Heats.

i) Only the same combination of handler and dog may qualify for the Nursery Final (the running order will be randomly drawn).

j) Six keepsakes (no cash prizes) will be awarded at the NWSDS Nursery Final.

k) The first 15 (plus 2 reserves) in the NWSDS Nursery final will represent NWSDS at the All Wales Nursery final.

Proposed: T. Emrys Jones (chair) Seconded: Trustees

PASSED (added to rules/diary)

Existing rules for reference

1. All competitors must be members of the NWSDS.

2. Entries are restricted to dogs NOT having run on a trial field prior to 1st August of the current NWSDS nursery trial season.

3. Dogs aged 3 years or over on the 30th November of the current nursery trial season will NOT be eligible to compete.

4. Entry fees: a common fee of £3.00per dog. £1.50 in whole or part to cover trial expenses and £1.50 used to offset the cost of insurances.

5. Scored running cards may be requested from the Judge after the trial.

6. The number of finalists will not be less than 30 or more than 36 irrespective of the number of qualifying heats.

7. Only the same combination of handler and dog may qualify for the nursery final running order.

8. Six keepsakes prizes (non-cash) will be awarded at the final.

9. Only the first 15 (plus 2 reserves) in the NWSDS members Nursery final, who are resident in the old counties of North Wales i.e. Anglesey, Caernarfonshire, Denbighshire, Flintshire,   Merionethshire and Montgomeryshire, will represent NWSDS at the All Wales Nursery final.