Greetings all Today, I was given responsibility to comment as to whether the ALAC needs to make a statement with regards to "The CCWG Accountability WS2, Staff Accountability Draft Recommendations, October 2017" (thankfully a short report). Here is a brief overview before my recommendation. The CCWG has identified changes that can be used alongside existing systems and processes not only to enhance ICANN's current processes but to support continuous improvement within it. This is important from the perspective of At-Large and other ICANN communities, as the primary role of the "ICANN Organisation" is to work alongside ICANN's volunteer community to gain their cooperation to assist with the work of ICANN, both directly and out in the field. A collaborative relationship with the Organisation is critical to the success of the work of volunteers within the ICANN system. Clear delegations, and open and well-communicated processes are critical to the success of any joint ventures. The CCWG's recommendations outline actions that will contribute not only towards improving the visibility and transparency of the Organisation's existing accountability mechanisms but also to give more clarity for stakeholders on staff performance and accountability. One particular recommendation to address the issue of fairness in regards to any contentious issues that may be raised by the Empowered Community (EC), is the creation of a panel consisting of the Ombudsman, the Complaints Officer, a representative of the Empowered Community and a Board member. Each being able to contribute the views of their role to the situation and hopefully resolve it in a way that is acceptable to all. A final recommendation was that, in the interests of transparency and accountability, all service level guidelines and the final outcomes of the WG's recommendations should be published in a specific area of icann.org. My recommendation is that the ALAC does not need to make any statement other than to commend the CCWG for their recommendations which identify how ICANN can better address contentious issues; suggest mechanisms that can aid more effective and collaborative relationships between the staff and the community; and provide greater clarity about roles and responsibilities as well as greater transparency and accountability in relation to ICANN's performance management and other evaluative processes. Maureen