National Development Body update

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As MGS undergoes its transition to become the National Development Body for the museums and galleries sector in Scotland, ongoing discussion throughout the sector has considered MGS’s purpose, structure, governance and accountability.

The MGS Board has recommended that the best possible option for museums and galleries in Scotland is to have a National Development Body that is an independent charitable trust, supported by – although entirely independent of – the Scottish Government. The National Development Body will be able to maintain the profile of, and support for, the sector at the highest strategic level whilst enabling it to deliver the National Strategy and advocating on its behalf. Several models for the National Development Body were considered. The model proposed is the option deemed to deliver the most investment, support and profile for the sector.

The constitutional changes being proposed are essential to make MGS fit for purpose as the National Development Body for the sector. The changes enable MGS to act more effectively on the sector’s behalf. MGS’ sole purpose is – and under any constitutional change will continue to be – to promote and support museums and galleries in Scotland.

There is provision in the new constitution that at any given time a majority of the Board of Directors must consist of individuals drawn from the museum and cultural sector. The new Board structure will offer the opportunity for all interested candidates with appropriate expertise from within the sector to put themselves forward to apply for Board membership in an open and transparent process.

The successful transition to a National Development Body is vital to the future development of the sector. Members who would like to engage in further discussion on the proposed constitutional change are welcome to attend one of two discussion events:

• Tuesday 15 May, 2:30pm at the MGS offices, 4th Floor, Waverley Gate, Edinburgh
• Thursday 17 May, 10:30am in central Glasgow

The MGS General Meeting will reconvene at 2.30pm on Tuesday 22 May at Waverley Gate, Edinburgh.

Please contact us on 0131 550 4100 if you would like any further information.

Published
10th May 2012

Region
Aberdeen City & Shire
Angus and Dundee
Argyll, The Isles, Loch Lomond, Stirling & Trossachs
Ayrshire & Arran
Dumfries and Galloway
Edinburgh & The Lothians
The Outer Hebrides
The Kingdom of Fife
Glasgow & the Clyde Valley
The Highlands
Orkney
Perthshire
Scottish Borders
Shetland

National

Publisher
MGS