Diane Yeldon : No bull - this is what "WORKSHOPS" are, defined in DCC Standing Orders

Diane Yeldon

From DCC Standing Orders

APPENDIX 9: WORKSHOPS

Definition of workshop

Workshops, however described, provide opportunities for members to discuss particular matters, receive briefings and provide guidance for officials. Workshops are not meetings and cannot be used to either make decisions or come to agreements that are then confirmed without the opportunity for meaningful debate at a formal meeting.

Application of Standing Orders to workshops

Standing Orders do not apply to workshops and briefings. The Chairperson or workshop organisers will decide how the workshop, briefing or working party should be conducted.

Calling a workshop

Workshops, briefings and working parties may be called by:

(a) a resolution of the local authority or its committees
(b) the Mayor,
(c) a committee Chairperson or
(d) the chief executive.

Process for calling workshops

The chief executive will give at least 24 hours' notice of the time and place of the workshop and the matters to be discussed at it. Notice may be given by whatever means are reasonable in the circumstances. Any notice given must expressly: '

(a) state that the meeting is a workshop
(b) advise the date, time and place
(c) confirm that the meeting is primarily for the provision of information and discussion, and will not make any decisions or pass any resolutions.

Public notice of a workshop is not required and workshops can be either open to the public or public excluded.