[council] Council resolution regarding extension of public comment periods

[Liz Gasster <liz.gasster@xxxxxxxxx>]

All,

The ICANN staff recognizes the intent behind this resolution and we will begin 
to think through any implications associated with this recommendation.  As a 
threshold matter, it may be helpful to mention that many structures within 
ICANN have pre-defined requirements for conducting public comments, including 
the time frames required for soliciting public comment.  These differ today by 
entity, many requirements are specified in various bylaws provisions applicable 
to various structures, including requirements applicable to Board-initiated 
solicitations for public comment.  The current bylaws provisions applicable to 
GNSO Council-related solicitations for public comment are specific to the GNSO 
Council.

Staff has also heard concerns from some Council members about the volume of 
reports and materials produced by ICANN staff (and possibly working group 
reports as well) just prior to and during ICANN meetings, because of the 
challenges associated with reviewing and being prepared to comment on 
late-breaking documents and reports.   For example, staff was directed to 
complete the registration abuse issues report prior to the Cairo ICANN meeting 
specifically so that the report could be discussed in Cairo, but, 
understandably, many Council members were unable to read the report in time for 
a timely discussion.  Thus, it may also be appropriate to consider whether 
deadlines for other deliverables should also be extended accordingly to further 
address Council member concerns.

Staff looks forward to discussing all this further with Council members.

Thanks, Liz