Provisional constitution of the Irish Socialist Network:

1. Basic Principles

The Irish Socialist Network is a radical democratic socialist organisation, committed to the complete abolition of capitalism and its replacement by a socialist society, by which we mean:

· A transformation of power relationships leading to democratic control of all aspects of society and an end to elite rule.

· Collective ownership and democratic control of all economic structures, wealth and resources, by the working class.

· Equality of all people and an end to all forms of privilege and discrimination.

· Vindication of all human rights; social, political and individual.

· A sustainable society developing in harmony with the natural environment.

The Irish Socialist Network will work to achieve this society on the basis of the following principles:

· Change is brought about by the empowerment of ordinary people not by a revolutionary vanguard or parliamentary elite.

· Openness, equality, internal democracy, consistent activism and a commitment to class politics are essential traits of a socialist organisation.

· Non-dogmatic Marxist thought is essential for analysing society and advancing the struggle for socialism.

· While acknowledging differences we will work in a non-sectarian manner with, and promote dialogue between, all socialist and progressive organisations.

· A key component of socialism is internationalism. The struggle for justice, equality and defence of the environment is global.

2.Rules of Membership and Structures of the ISN

That the following be adopted as the rules of membership and structures of the Irish Socialist Network, pending the adoption of a full constitution:

1. The Irish Socialist Network is a participatory, democratic, member based organisation. All political decisions shall be taken by a majority vote of the whole membership or, at a local level, of all the branch membership.

2. Anyone, over the age of 16, who agrees with the basic principles of the organisation, can join the Irish Socialist Network. Members of the organisation are expected to participate in campaigns and activities, advance and defend the basic principles of the organisation, involve themselves in the democratic decisions making process of the organisation and develop their political awareness through participation in meetings and activities. It is recognised that levels of participation vary according to personal circumstances.

3. Members are encouraged to recognise that different opinions are valued and diversity and dissent is positive. The ISN strives for an internal atmosphere of openness; tolerance and respect where everyone is encouraged to fully participate at all levels. The ISN is opposed to racism, sexism, sectarianism, homophobia and all forms of discrimination. Members should reflect this in their language and behaviour.

4. In general members are expected to argue for and implement organisational policy in their political work. Members may argue for and organise openly and democratically to promote a minority view which is consistent with the basic principles of the organisation. In recognition of the internal democratic process, such members should acknowledge in their external activity that their view is that of a minority within the organisation. Members may not participate in activities that are contrary to the basic principles of the organisation and may not be a member of another party political organisation.

5. The basic unit of the organisation is the branch, organised on a geographical basis. All members must be affiliated to a branch. A branch should meet at least once a month. A branch may appoint officers with specific responsibilities. The branch should consist of at least three people.

6. All office holders in the organisation shall be elected by proportional representation annually, if there are more than two candidates, recallable at any time.

7. The position of chairperson shall be rotated at all meetings of the organisation. The same member may not chair two meetings of a branch or a National Members Meeting consecutively. The role of the chair shall be to encourage full participation by all members in discussions, protect the right of all members to voice their opinions and ensure that meetings are conducted in an efficient and democratic manner.

8. The supreme decision making body of the organisation shall be the Annual Conference. All members shall be entitled to attend, participate and vote at the Annual Conference. Motions and amendments, which must be circulated in advance to all members, can be submitted by branches or jointly by three or more individual members. The rules of membership/structure/principles (provisional constitution) can only be changed by a 2/3 majority at an Annual Conference.

9. To coordinate the activity of the organisation between Annual Conferences, a National Members Meeting shall meet at least once a quarter. All members shall be entitled to attend, participate and vote at a National Members Meeting. The National Members Meeting shall coordinate the activity of the branches, implement the decisions of the Annual Conference and take decisions on issues that have not been addressed at an Annual Conference. The National Members Meeting shall not elect any officers but may delegate specific tasks to certain members.