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this page | Year End Message of Thanks
As another year at APGO comes to an end, I would like to extend a sincere wish for a safe and happy holiday season to all our members, volunteers, councillors and staff. The Association has had a very successful yearwhich has seen an increase in membership, the establishment of clear procedures and policies and a sound fiscal record, all of which can be attributed to the hard work of the staff and all those who have volunteered time. As an association that is dependent on volunteers, special thanks must be extended to the Councillors and Committee members. Without the energetic help of these individuals APGO would struggle to meet its mandate and obligation not only to the members at large but also to the public. When I reflect on some of the past year’s accomplishments such as: the establishment of clear complaints and discipline procedures, the implementation of an aggressive enforcement and compliance process, improvements to university relations, the completion of 3 professional practice workshops, steady membership increases and a continuation of an efficiently run administration, one has to recognize that many of these accomplishments would not have been possible without our dedicated volunteers. In November all members received a call for nominations to council. Members who have yet to find time to contribute to the growth of APGO should consider the rewards of supporting the Association in 2006 and onwards by running for a council position. Committee work is equally important and gratifying. In 2006, the Association will focus on enforcement and compliance issues as well as concentrating on establishment of meaningful and alluring student and GIT programs. The demographic of APGO shows that 78% of our membership is over the age of 40. As a profession we have a responsibility to address the apparent shortage of individuals entering the profession by supporting and evolving these programs. Mobility remains a key concern of the Association. I can assure you that the mobility sub-committee, along with Council, have worked extremely hard to remove the barriers that would allow for seamless mobility across the nation through the introduction of Incidental Practice models to other Constituent Associations. The acceptance of Incidental Practice within other jurisdictions, continues to be a significant challenge that will not be realized anytime soon. As a result, APGO has re-focussed its attention to improving the registration process under the existing Inter Association Mobility Agreement which allows for relatively easy transportability of existing registrations between the jurisdictions. Many improvements will be made in early 2006, however, full fees in each jurisdiction where a member practices will still be required, regardless of the duration of the work. As I sign off on my last message of this year, I want to remind you all to find time to balance your busy professional life with a few days of relaxation and fun with friends and family. |
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more information on APGO, please contact info@apgo.net
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