Over 150 voluntary and community organisations turn out to Meet the Commissioners

Many were keen to ask their questions to the Commission directly; about the new regulations, what requirements will be put on them and what help will be provided. The event was part of NICVA’s AGM held in Duncairn Gardens, Belfast on Friday 20 November.

Seamus McAleavey, Chief Executive of NICVA said:

“This was an excellent turnout from our members to meet the new Charity Commission for Northern Ireland and demonstrates the level of interest in the new regulations and requirements that charities may have to adhere too. In this current economic recession, it is more essential than ever that charities have good governance practices in place”.

Also commenting on the day Seamus Murray, Head of the Secretariat to the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland stated:

“The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland is delighted to be invited to participate in NICVA's Annual General Meeting for 2009.  Clearly the new Charities Act, and the requirements that flow from it, present challenges for all charities. NICVA is to be congratulated for making charity regulation a key focus of its AGM.”

A copy of Seamus Murray's presentation is attached for download below.

About the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie announced the newly appointed Charity Commissioners for Northern Ireland at a special launch on 1 June 2009, which was warmly welcomed by Seamus McAleavey, Chief Executive of NICVA.

The Charity Commission can now commence its work as it has already been given the power to operate and fulfill its duties by the First Commencement Order which was passed in March 2009.

Visit the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland website.