Where is the EQUITY FORUM?

Whilst we only a very infrequently use the EQUITY ON-LINE DISCUSSION FORUM several members have told us that it is currently SWITCHED-OFF ! As there is a fundamental rule change referendum taking place, which seeks to restrict the rights of members to express their personal political and other beliefs both in their private and professional capacities and that Council have agreed to Internet campaigning is seems "unfortunate" to say the least that if the forum is turned off, and remains so for any length of time, it inculcates an idea that someone is restricting our members' rights to "freedom of expression" within Equity? It may perhaps be considered as being very helpful to the "activists" who traditionally vote (usually no more than 8% of the membership), especially as Council are actively supporting an "Approval" campaign. The forum could well have proved a viable and worthwhile way of members contacting other members to inform them of their views about the Rule Change Referendum. It begs the question as to why Councillors were not informed of the "switch-off" at Tuesday's Council Meeting 5th April. As the Council were not informed, does this give credence to a view that the switch off may be "convenient censorship" to assist an "Approval" campaign? We are NOT a happy bunnies having just learnt about this !