When must a Point of Order be raised during a meeting?

A Point of Order is a formal statement made during a meeting that indicates a breach of the procedural rules. This can involve situations such as a member speaking out of turn or failing to follow the established rules for discussion. Raising a Point of Order promptly at the time the breach occurs ensures that the issue is immediately addressed, allowing the meeting to maintain order and follow correct parliamentary procedure. This timing is critical because it prevents any potential disruption from affecting the flow of the meeting and allows the chair to take corrective action right away.

Addressing a Point of Order at the end of the debate, before the meeting starts, or after a vote has been taken would not be effective or appropriate as these moments would no longer directly pertain to the breach and may render any corrective action irrelevant or too late to address the issue at hand. Thus, raising it promptly ensures that the meeting adheres to its rules continuously throughout the proceedings.