The executive council also agreed on Tuesday to two proposed rule changes which would see a full set of elections take place. The proposed changes will see each remaining member of the executive board step aside and stand for re-election.

If re-elected, they will be permitted to serve out their remaining two year term. The proposed change will also see the reintroduction of the two two-year term rule where after two years in the position the president, deputy president and four regional chairs would seek reappointment for a further two years.

The rule changes to the constitution, proposed at the meeting, cannot be ratified for 28 days.

The closing date for nominations for president remains Wednesday 6 January at 5.30pm while nominations for the deputy president and four regional chairs will now be the first week in February.

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Full coverage: IFA elections 2016