INAS General Assembly to consider governance changes

“As a largely voluntary organisation, it is essential that all parts of the organisation function effectively and there is clear accountability"

The International Federation for Intellectual Disability Sport (INAS) will host its biennial General Assembly in Brisbane, Australia, from Saturday (22 April).

The General Assembly, taking place in the host city of the 2017 INAS Global Games, is particularly important as a range of governance changes will be considered including substantial changes to the Governing Board structure.

Amaury Russo, INAS President, explained: “INAS governance has changed little since the organisation was founded in 1986 yet both in terms of what we do – and the world around us – there have been substantial progress. The proposals being considered will ensure INAS is best placed to meet the demands of the future and achieve our strategic objectives.”

At the heart of the changes is a proposal to enhance the role and accountability of five continental regional bodies and the INAS Committees, introduce specialist roles at Board level and revise the membership structure.

“As a largely voluntary organisation, it is essential that all parts of the organisation function effectively and there is clear accountability,” Russo continued. “We also need to ensure we have the appropriate mix of skills and experience at Board level to ensure effective leadership, and that our membership structure is reflective of the many different types of organisations involved in delivering competitive sport for athletes with an intellectual disability.”

Irrespective of whether the changes are approved, the General Assembly will see elections for key roles within the Governing Board. Brazilian Russo - President since 2013 – is one of two nominees for the post. Marc Truffaut of France is also running for election.

Nick Parr, Executive Director of INAS added: “Being in Brisbane provides a fantastic opportunity for INAS members, staff and volunteers to visit the host venues of the 2019 INAS Global Games. We will be meeting with Organising Committee and city representatives to review progress and planning for the event which is approximately 30 months away.”

The weekend will culminate with the 2017 INAS Awards which will recognise athletes and volunteers achievements over the past two years, including the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.