I did attend the AGM, although since I'd already cast my votes online I felt rather foolish; like Frank Maguire, the MP for Fermanagh & South Tyrone, who once travelled all the way to Westminster to "abstain in person".

It was very disturbing to learn that owing to "crossed wires" in communication the Society had not planned any events to accompany the AGM. It was just as distressing to discover a complete absence of publicity material to celebrate what are actually the genuine achievements of the Society. This was a missed opportunity for the Society to demonstrate to members what it is doing on our behalf - even some tea and biscuits and a chance to mingle would have been nice.

I thought Paul, Gavin and Mike amongst others all spoke up very eloquently for the members out in the provinces; but it seems that the Society paying more attention to the Arts Council in London than to its membership.

Matthew