53. Powers of the chairperson.— The chairperson shall have powers of general superintendence and direction of the affairs of the Authority and shall also exercise all powers and do all such acts and things which may be exercised or done by the Authority under the Act. 54. 55. Meetings of the Authority.— (1) The chairperson and members of the Authority shall meet at such times and places and shall observe such rules and procedures in regard to transaction of business at its meetings including quorum at such meetings, as may be prescribed. (2) If, for any reason, the chairperson is unable to attend any meeting of the Authority, any other member chosen by the members present at the meeting, shall preside at the meeting. (3) All questions which come up before any meeting of the Authority shall be decided by a majority of votes of the members present and voting, and in the event of an equality of votes, the chairperson or in her absence, the member presiding, shall have a casting or a second vote. (4) Any member who has any direct or indirect pecuniary interest in any matter coming up for consideration at a meeting of the Authority shall disclose the nature of her interest at such meeting, which shall be recorded in the proceedings of the Authority and such member shall not take part in any deliberation or decision of the Authority with respect to that matter. Vacancies, etc. not to invalidate proceedings of the Authority.— No act or proceeding of the Authority shall be invalid merely by reason of— (a) (b) (c) 56. any vacancy or defect in the constitution of the Authority; any defect in the appointment of a person as a chairperson or member; or, any irregularity in the procedure of the Authority not affecting the merits of the case. Officers and Employees of the Authority.— (1) The Authority may appoint such officers, employees, consultants and experts as it may consider necessary for effectively discharging its functions under this Act. (2) Any remuneration, salary or allowances, and other terms and conditions of service of such officers, employees, consultants and experts shall be such as may be specified. 31