14th April 2009, 01:09 PM
Totally agree with OG...
To the question as to whether it is 'too early'... The IfA in its various guises has been around now for close on 30 years. The vast majority of archaeological professionals in the UK have for the whole of their working careers worked within a 'regulatory' climate created and policed by the IfA. In that time no body has emerged as a viable alternative to the IfA and I have never heard it suggested that the IFA standards are too rigourous (infact quite the opposite...).
So the IfA is the only show in town, has been for 30 years and it seems likely to remain that way for some time to come. OK it is still not compulsory to become a member if you want to work in UK archaeology, but....surely it can only be a matter of time.
With peace and consolation hath dismist, And calm of mind all passion spent...
To the question as to whether it is 'too early'... The IfA in its various guises has been around now for close on 30 years. The vast majority of archaeological professionals in the UK have for the whole of their working careers worked within a 'regulatory' climate created and policed by the IfA. In that time no body has emerged as a viable alternative to the IfA and I have never heard it suggested that the IFA standards are too rigourous (infact quite the opposite...).
So the IfA is the only show in town, has been for 30 years and it seems likely to remain that way for some time to come. OK it is still not compulsory to become a member if you want to work in UK archaeology, but....surely it can only be a matter of time.
With peace and consolation hath dismist, And calm of mind all passion spent...