On Tue, 7 Aug 2007, David Lyon wrote:
> Michael Van Canneyt wrote: > > The charter of the firebird foundation can be found at: > > > > http://www.firebirdsql.org/index.php?op=ffoundation&sub=docs&id=rules > > > > I've read it, and it seems like a reasonable starting document. > > Specifically, parts 1,2 and 3. In fact, you could almost change > > 'firebird' into 'Lazarus', and you'd be all set. Obviously, some > > changes to accomodate local legislation would be needed. > > > > (the charter of firebird is registered in Australia) > > > There are advantages to registering in Australia. It's a modern country, ... As opposed to these totally backward European countries ? ;-) > english speaking, has a reasonable legal system, less tax (10% gst compared to > 19% in Germany). ? As far as I know, a non-profit organization does not pay taxes in Belgium. (Logical, since there is no profit to pay taxes on in the first place...) > Lower legal costs, but excellent adherence to international > conventions (respect for intellectual property etc). The 'respect for IP' as you put it, is not something I endorse, so that would be a very compelling reason for me for basing the foundation in Europe, where software patents are not enforcible (yet). I don't want a foundation targeted by Borland or Codegear lawyers. > Totally unrelated, nice beaches, beatiful resorts (to conference at) etc > etc... not such a bad place to come to party for a few days every few years... Compelling arguments :-) > There may also be tax advantages for contractors working in say, Europe, when > it comes to getting paid for any programming work :-). But best to get advice > from an accountant on that, I could well be wrong. Given the current relative positions of EUR and Dollar, I fear that this could be in the disadvantage of the foundation ? There are pluses and minuses to every argument, of course. > Anyway, I would be in a position to do the registration here. Doing a > 'template' copy should be nice and straightforward. My company could fund > getting it checked over by our company lawyer. That should only cost a few > hundred dollars - and take about an hour if we are lucky. So maybe we can add > it to the list of possible countries if people are interested. I'm a little bit put off by the IP issue regarding Australia. But that's my personal attitude. I will not go as far as to oppose it, but I have my reserves. Michael. _________________________________________________________________ To unsubscribe: mail [EMAIL PROTECTED] with "unsubscribe" as the Subject archives at http://www.lazarus.freepascal.org/mailarchives
