For immediate release March 31, 2009
Vancouver, BC
In what was termed a difficult but necessary decision in order to save the organization, the United Native Nations Society (UNNS) Board of Directors recently revoked the membership of David Dennis and Kelly L’Hirondelle.
Speaking as legal counsel for the UNNS, lawyer Myron Barr stated that pursuant to Section 1 (I)(iii) of the society’s bylaws, “any person’s membership can be revoked by the Board of Directors if it is deemed that they are jeopardizing the Society through actions that are contrary to the Constitution and Bylaws of the Society.”
Since being elected respectively President and Vice-President of the UNNS in 2008, David Dennis and Kelly L’Hirondelle have undertaken a series of actions that have put the United Native Nations Society at risk of collapse. These include:
- Locking out of the office staff in August 2008;
- Failure to obtain government funding despite numerous assurances;
- Failure to respect the authority of the Board of Directors and questioning the integrity of individual Board members;
- The President allowing the offices to be used for an after hours party location;
- Cancelling meetings without any consultation with the Board;
- Failing to promote a positive relationship with government funders such that the continued existence of the Society is now in jeopardy; and
- Making and implementing decisions without Board approval
The UNNS Board of Directors will continue to run the Society. Its Chairperson Debbie Conlin will serve as its spokesperson.
“It is my hope that we can soon resolve this matter in such a manner that a positive and good working relationship with our funders is restored and thus allow for the valuable work the United Native Nations Staff provide to continue,” said Conlin.
The UNN represents over 11,000 Aboriginal people living off reserve in British Columbia.
For further information please contact:
Debbie Conlin, Chairperson, UNNS Board of Directors (250) 542-0045
Michael Geoghegan, consultant, (250) 361-9242 or (250) 881-0969 (cell)
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