NICVA's latest Annual General Meeting and Annual Report

Bob Stronge, Chair of NICVA, welcomed members to NICVA's 73rd AGM on 14 October and reflected on a year which saw the impact of economic downturn, cuts to public expenditure and the reshaping of public services creating many difficulties for families and communities in Northern Ireland.

Recognising the challenges, Bob reiterated NICVA’s focus on helping the sector to proactively engage in debate on our social and economic future and emphasised that a “Good Society” is not just about the economy but about the role of the voluntary and community sector within that. 

Bob paid tribute to his Executive Committee colleagues and NICVA staff and congratulated the organisation for achieving its Mark of Excellence during the year, indicating the high quality of the work and services delivered.

Seamus McAleavey, NICVA's Chief Executive, presented the annual report, which focused on the Smart Solutions in Tough Times campaign initiated by NICVA during the year. Much of the report covers the voluntary and community sector's engagement on the Northern Ireland Executive's budget as well as encouraging the sector to innovate, and bring forward ground-breaking solutions that are achievable in the circumstances of a difficult financial climate.

Úna Mckernan, Deputy Chief Executive, presented a summary of the annual accounts, reflecting the increasing diversification of NICVA funds in support of the organisation's work, including continuous support from DSD under the Regional Infrastructure Programme as well as the Big Lottery Fund, International Fund for Ireland, and Peace III, Atlantic Philantrhopies and the NI Development Fund as principal supporters.