Ian Robinson introduced a presentation that had been prepared to assist regional groups in moving to a view on the future of AMSU. It outlined several options and the possible consequences of each route.
Some members indicated that they was in favour of moving closer to NUS but asked whether the option of grandfather rights for unions who were not members of NUS was on offer. It was agreed that the matter needed clarification.
The meeting agreed that any future change would need to be an all UK solution and not one with an NUS Wales option.
The proposed Staff Development Unit in the NUS centred model was noted but it was not clear whether that would be paid out of existing NUS subscriptions or from reformed AMSU fees. The question was raised as to what level of priority the SDU would have in NUS. A view that the new arrangement should be reviewed in 2 years with the option to return to the status quo was put forward.
Another view wondering whether the involvement with NUS presented a risk as NUS was more political was expressed.
A conclusion was, that for many colleagues, AMSU WAS the regional meetings, as the main conference has lost the large attendances of previous years.
Regional meetings and associated networking would continue under any format. It was agreed that the committee should proceed to discuss the option of involvement with NUS although there continued to be reservations as to how non-affiliates would be dealt with.
It was further noted that funding cuts were inevitable and the student movement could not expect to be immune from the process with the consequences that involved.
The issue of the Unions in Ireland needs to be resolved as they are, of course, not members of NUS - an arrangement with NUS' Irish equivalents may need to be made, if appropriate.
The closer and more active involvement of staff in the direction and strategy of NUS was recognised as a potential benefit.
Alternative models discussed included affiliation with ACUI and accessing training through organisations such as ACEVO.