What is the Point of Personal Privilege?
A point of personal privilege is a parliamentary motion used in meetings governed by Robert’s Rules of Order. It aims to address issues that impact an individual’s comfort or ability to fully participate in the meeting. Also, it enables a member to interrupt proceedings when their rights or welfare are directly affected—often by external factors like noise, temperature, or accessibility needs.
Unlike other motions, this privilege is not utilized for debating issues. Instead, it focuses on creating an environment where all members can effectively engage in the meeting.
When can a point of personal privilege be raised?
A point of personal privilege can be raised at almost any time during a meeting, even when another member is speaking. The motion takes precedence because it addresses immediate conditions affecting one’s participation. However, it must only be used when necessary. The chairperson should rule on whether the privilege is valid and address it appropriately.
What are the legitimate reasons to raise a point of personal privilege?
Legitimate reasons for raising a point of personal privilege relate to matters that hinder a member’s ability to contribute to the meeting. Some of these are:
- Environmental discomfort: Issues with the meeting environment, such as excessive noise or poor lighting that distracts or limits visibility.
- Hearing or clarity concerns: If a speaker’s volume is too low or audio equipment is malfunctioning, making it hard for participants to hear discussions.
- Physical accessibility: Situations where a member has difficulty seeing materials, accessing facilities, or otherwise physically participating due to certain constraints.
- Health-related needs: If a member has health-related concerns, such as requiring a break, water, or other accommodations to continue participating.
- Technical issues in virtual meetings: Online settings, connectivity issues, or poor audio-visual quality can justify a point of personal privilege.
What are the misuses of points of personal privilege according to Robert’s Rules?
Misuse of personal privilege can distract from the meeting’s purpose. Common misuses of this motion include:
- Interrupting debate to gain attention or shifting focus to unrelated issues.
- Voicing personal grievances, opinions, or objections to meeting content, which should instead be addressed through a proper debate.
- Using the motion as a delay tactic or to stall proceedings during contentious discussions or close votes.
- Raising non-urgent concerns that could be addressed outside the main proceedings.
How to Properly Raise a Point of Personal Privilege
Raising a point of personal privilege should be done respectfully and succinctly, following these steps:
- Request permission: Address the chairperson by saying, “I rise to a point of personal privilege.”
- Wait for recognition: Wait for the chairperson’s acknowledgement prior to proceeding. The chair then decides if the request is valid and can grant the floor.
- State the issue concisely: Clearly state the specific issue impacting your participation, such as “The room temperature is too cold. It’s uncomfortable for some members.” or “The visual materials are not visible from my location. I’m unable to fully participate.”
- Allow the chair to take action: Once the point is made, defer to the chair for a response. The chair may pause the meeting to briefly address the issue, instruct the speaker to address the technical issues, or make environmental arrangements.
- Acknowledge the resolution and resume participation: If the solution is appropriate, acknowledge it (e.g. a simple “Thank you, Chair”) and allow the meeting to proceed.
Personal Privilege vs. General Privilege
While both points of personal privilege and general privilege address matters affecting members, there are some key distinctions. Personal privilege specifically pertains to an individual member’s ability to participate due to personal or environmental factors. On the other hand, general privilege refers to the rights affecting the entire assembly, not just a single member. It may include collective issues such as fire hazards, building safety concerns, or other factors that impact all meeting attendees.