Council’s Bye Laws

Constitution of Press Council of Edmonton

Introduction

The Press Council of Edmonton (PCE) is dedicated to promoting the profession of journalism, fostering community engagement, and upholding the highest ethical standards. Below is the comprehensive framework that governs our organization, its operations, and its members.

Section 1: Purpose

  1. Promote journalism and related fields through education, training, reporting, and charitable initiatives.
  2. Organize functions and award ceremonies to recognize achievements in various fields.
  3. Fundraise through publications, media coverage, and documentaries on social issues.
  4. Host press conferences and invite dignitaries for cultural and professional activities.
  5. Provide amenities for visiting journalists, including lodging, meals, and event arrangements.
  6. Uphold the freedom of the press and encourage the highest ethical standards.
  7. Serve as a bridge of understanding between the public and the press.

Section 2: Membership

  1. Membership Types:
    • Media Members: Journalists, freelancers, or media professionals residing or employed in Edmonton.
    • Professional Members: Individuals in PR, advertising, or related fields with a vested interest in journalism.
    • Honorary Members: Elected by the Executive Committee in recognition of their contributions.
    • Founder Members: Lifetime contributors who established the organization.
    • Patrons: Eminent individuals chosen by the Executive Committee.
    • Student Members: Communications students with discounted membership fees.
  2. Membership Fees:
    • Founder Members: $200 (one-time donation).
    • Regular Members: $30 per year.
    • Students: $10 per year.
  3. Rights & Responsibilities:
    • Members must adhere to the organization’s ethical and professional standards.
    • Only active members in good standing are eligible to vote.

Section 3: Annual Dues & Suspension of Membership

  1. Members in default of dues are automatically suspended until reinstated.
  2. Membership may be terminated for conduct deemed detrimental to PCE.
  3. No refunds will be issued for resignations, suspensions, or expulsions.

Section 4: Management

  1. Executive Committee:

    • Roles include President, Vice Presidents (Administration & Programs), Treasurer, Joint Treasurer, and General Secretary.
    • Responsible for the administration, finances, and programs of PCE.
    • Meetings are held monthly, with a quorum of 8 members required.

  2. Duties of Officers:

    • President: Oversees all meetings, liaises with stakeholders, and ensures proper functioning of PCE.
    • Vice Presidents: Handle administration and program execution in the absence of the President.
    • Treasurer: Manages finances, prepares financial reports, and ensures audits are conducted annually.
    • General Secretary: Maintains records, organizes meetings, and handles correspondence.

Section 5: Voting Rights

  1. Each active member is entitled to one vote in organizational matters.
  2. Honorary members, patrons, and dignitaries do not have voting rights.

Section 6: Quorum

A minimum of 8 members must be present for a meeting to proceed. If adjourned twice, the Executive Committee may take decisions with a quorum of three members.

Section 7: Amendments to the By-Laws

  1. By-laws may be reviewed and amended every five years with the approval of the General Body and Founder Members.
  2. Proposed changes must be circulated to members in advance of the meeting.

Section 8: Facilities

PCE aims to construct its own facility featuring:

  • A restaurant, bar, gym, and halls for cultural events and press conferences.
  • A storehouse for records and other purposes.

Section 9: Dissolution

In the event of dissolution, PCE’s remaining assets will be donated to recognized charitable organizations in Alberta.

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