Parliamentary procedure - an important role in CCW

by Shirley Nowak

What is parliamentary procedure?

Parliamentary procedure is a consistent set of rules to govern procedure in a deliberative

assembly. These rules are precise and are designed to help organizations conduct their

meetings expediently and fairly while preserving the rights of all its members.

Why use parliamentary procedure?

Parliamentary procedure is used in meetings to maintain order. The principle behind the use of parliamentary procedure ensures that all members are treated fairly while having an opportunity to express their opinions. Matters come before the assembly one by one in an orderly fashion so they may be properly considered by the members. The basic principles of parliamentary procedure are:

- The rule of the majority

- The rights of the minority and absentees

- Justice to all

- Courtesy to all

- Only one thing may be considered at a time

How do I learn more about parliamentary procedure?

The best way is to join a parliamentary unit, attend workshops, find courses taught in

community education programs, and check the National Association of Parliamentarians web site.

What is a parliamentarian?

A parliamentarian is a consultant who helps organizations expedite their business fairly

by applying basic parliamentary principle and procedures. A parliamentarian is impartial

and serves the organization as a whole.

What does a parliamentarian actually do?

A parliamentarian performs services like writing bylaws and bylaw amendments, aiding

the presiding officer in planning meetings and during meetings, reviews election procedures, aids in counting ballots, serving officers and boards during conventions, conducts workshops on effective meetings and rendering parliamentary opinions upon

request.

Shirley Nowak is from Silver Lake and is the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Parliamentarian.