2007 was a relatively quiet year for the Committee. Requests for assistance totaled 12. Seven practitioners sought assistance to pay practicing fees. Six were granted loans repayable by installments over 12 months.

Grants were made to assist two practitioners experiencing difficulty and to the widow of a deceased practitioner for payment of school fees. At the year’s end two other requests awaited further information.

The Committee reviewed outstanding loans and in a small number of cases agreed on steps to follow up repayment.

The Committee held a special meeting attended by the President and Executive Director to discuss the future of the Members Special Fund in the restructuring necessary under the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006. The Committee subsequently wrote to the Society requesting it to take steps to ensure that the Fund continues for the ongoing benefit of Auckland practitioners. It proposed the setting up of a formal trust with the welfare of
present and former Auckland practitioners, and their families, being the objects.

The existence and work of the Committee was given good publicity in an article by Graham Wear in December.

There is a wide variety of experience and knowledge of the profession amongst the members of the Committee. Each makes a valuable contribution to the decisions made which require a balance of compassion and responsible administration of the Fund. Special thanks are due to Marcus Martin for his efficient administration of the Committee’s business.