Granville Diggers Sub-branch Secretary Treasurer Alice O’Connor says she can’t see a problem with veterans having a meal and a few beers after a meeting, although she doesn’t drink.
“I believe RSL NSW is making a big deal of this so they can push the second half of the draft proposal through and get control of sub-branch money,” she said.
“This is money raised by the community and we have to pay for admin, power and rates. We also donate to schools, take kids on the Kokoda Track and pay for ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day commemorations.
“They even want us to stop buying wreaths for other organisations.
“I just hope they let all members vote on their proposals at the annual congress.”
Likewise, Cumberland RSL Sub-branch does not support the proposals.
A spokesperson says there are several important issues raised.
“One being the restriction regarding the welfare component of meals and beverages at meetings,” he said.
“Additionally, the discussion paper appears to highlight aspects of change that RSL NSW would like to see integrated at a sub-branch level that requires constitutional amendments, including restricting sub-branch ability to undertake their charitable aims.
“Cumberland RSL Sub-branch will continue to work with RSL NSW, but does hold concerns regarding the content within the discussion paper.”
A NSW RSL spokesperson said: “To ensure the organisation is meeting its charitable obligations, RSL NSW is developing a range of policies for consultation.
“We have received positive and negative views and will develop a policy consistent with these views.”
Diggers ready to fight again for rights
THEY fought to keep Australia safe during war and now our Diggers are ready to fight again over a proposal to prohibit subsidised food and drink at meetings, ban support to ex-service organisations other than RSL entities and for sub-branches to donate all income except for expenses to RSL NSW head office.