Letter from Pat Walsh

Just been delivered by hand:

28 October 2005

Jeremy Greenbrook
President
VUWSA

Dear Jeremy

In previous years where the University Council has set its domestic tuition fees, incidents occurred that were unacceptable from an occupational safety and health viewpoint, such as attempts by protestors to lock doors. In addition, unlawful activity occurred such as wielding chains and other objects in ways that were potentially threatening to others, as well as damage to, and theft of, University property.

Accordingly, I wish to advise you, and ask you to advise your colleagues and the designated Protest Leader, Nick Kelly, that:

• Chains, locks, other large solid objects (e.g. poles in banners), and bags will not be permitted in the Panckhurst Block or the Robert Stout/Hunter Building complex.
• Locking of doors, theft of or damage to property by protestors will not be tolerated.
• Disruption of University examinations will not be tolerated.
• The number of members of the public admitted to the Panckhurst Seminar Room will be restricted to 30, which is a number consistent with my obligations to ensure the health and safety of Council members, staff and members of the public.

University management will respond to protests in a manner consistent with the Policy on Students Protests, a copy of which you already hold.

Yours sincerely

(signed)

Pat Walsh
Vice-Chancellor