Misbehaving scarfies face jump in fines

University of Otago students behaving badly will face increased fines of up to $1000 under proposed changes. Photo / Thinkstock

University of Otago students behaving badly will face increased fines of up to $1000 under proposed changes.

A proposed draft statute, which outlines several changes in disciplinary measures was debated at a university council meeting this week.

Council student representative Katie Reid, who is also the Otago University Students' Association education officer, questioned why the level of fines specified in a revised discipline statute had more than doubled.

Under the university's Discipline Regulations Statute 1991 the campus proctor could impose fines of no more than $200, while the provost can order fines of up to $500.

The revised statute allows for fines of up to $500 and $1000 to be imposed by the respective officers of the university.

Council secretary and registrar Jan Flood said the rise was attributed to inflation and the significant increase reflected the "very long time" since the statutory fines had been reviewed.

However, council member Judge Oke Blaikie wanted the review of the statute to be held off to allow for more consideration, because he thought the fines were too low.

"I know this will make you grumpy," he told Ms Reid, "but the level of penalties, and the rights of students in these disciplinary matters need further discussion. They are too low and inappropriate."

There was an approaching deadline to finalise the statutes and regulations, given they will soon be published in the university 2012 calender, but the matter needed further consideration, Judge Blaikie said.