RACP Board statement following EGM disruption

The Board wishes to inform members that the validity of today’s meeting and vote is being examined after significant disruption to proceedings. 

The Board had previously resolved to recommend that Dr Nicholas Buckmaster would chair the meeting, to avoid Conflicts of Interest. This was disputed.

New South Wales Police were called to the meeting by Dr Chandran, Dr Sharmila Chandran's husband. 

The EGM was started and Professor Martin, as the Chair, sought to open the meeting consistent with previous practice and the College Constitution. 

The President-elect then spoke over the Chair and did not stop. The President-elect had organsied the support services prior to focus the cameras on her and not to follow the Chair and President’s instructions, nor the resolutions of the Board. 

Without authority, Dr Chandran then requested the meeting be adjourned. 

Dr Chandran then continued the meeting in a location in a closed room with the Chair, the CEO, other Directors and the Interim Company Secretary excluded. 

Professor Martin, the subject of the vote was not given the opportunity to speak to members, despite being present nearby. 

The Board has grave concerns about the constitutionality of this meeting, breaches of Corporations and WHS Acts, breaches of principles of natural justice and the behaviour demonstrated by Dr Chandran. 

The meeting was not run as per our Board By-laws, and the results were not correctly scrutineered, and the Board believes the vote is invalid. 

The meeting was conducted improperly We are seeking legal advice but in the meantime the Board takes the view that it is business as usual and that Professor Martin remains the Chair. 

Members will be further advised as the Board continues to manage this issue.