AGM

[StevieHilton]

Robin/Ian

The first line of Motion 1 reads:

‘1.1 Implementation of Guidelines from FIDE for Tournaments in which Disabled Players Participate

1. These requirements shall be used for all chess competitions.’

So, no distinction is drawn here between FIDE and non-FIDE rated Tournaments.

Then, at 10:32 PM on 12 August, Andy (H) wrote ‘these recommendations are to be enforced in FIDE rated Tournaments, but they cannot be forced onto Leagues and Congresses - (only) for Chess Scotland events’. Andy’s statement indicated there was a distinction between FIDE and non-FIDE rated events.. Together with doubt about the real meaning of certain words - ‘must’, ‘shall’ ‘should’ - some organisers were - quite rightly - concerned about the extent of the possible implications and sought clarification. Now, we seem to have it thanks to Andy’s latest news that the Guidelines are enforceable only in relation to FIDE rated Tournaments.

This should give organisers of non-FIDE rated Tournaments scope to continue and extend existing practice in relation to disabled players without having the Sword of Damocles hanging over them.

The simplest way to give effect to the new Guidelines is to introduce them in a Preamble or, alternatively, to amend the first line of Motion 1 to read something along the lines of:

1.1 In accordance with newly implemented FIDE Guidelines, the following provisions will be enforced in FIDE rated Tournaments in which Disabled Players participate in Scotland

1. These requirements shall be enforced only in FIDE rated Tournaments organised by, or under the auspices of Chess Scotland etc.etc.

2. Though not enforceable in non-FIDE rated Tournaments, organisers of all chess events in Scotland are urged to do their utmost to accommodate and encourage the participation of disabled chess players by adopting these FIDE guidelines wherever possible or practical. The overriding principle is one of inclusiveness towards all chess players.


Obviously,the above will need to be examined with a fine tooth comb to ensure that I have covered all the bases correctly.

I agree with this George. I have consistently said that I do not have a problem with adapting the guidelines to suit local circumstances