Conor Murphy, Minister of Finance in Northern Ireland has restructured the Procurement Board which has the responsibility for the development, dissemination and co-ordination of public procurement policy and practice for the public sector.

The Board is responsible to the executive and accountable to the Assembly and ensures the £3 billion a year on procurement is fully maximised. As part of the restructuring, five new members were appointed, two of whom are representatives of the construction industry.

Conor Murphy said: “The new structure of the Procurement Board will allow for Procurement Policy to be co-designed by those that design and deliver Government contracts. I look forward to chairing the first meeting and to working with the members to enhance public procurement for the benefit of those we serve.”

The move sees an attempt at bringing together different stakeholder groups, as both appointees are also, along with ACE, constituent members of the Northern Ireland Construction Group (NICG) and the Construction Professionals Council of Northern Ireland (CPCNI).

Paul Johnston, Chair of ACE Northern Ireland commented: “Needless to say, all members of these groups are excited about this development which is the result of years of engagement and hard work. We are now moving towards proper recognition for our industry and a great opportunity to influence locally at the highest levels on behalf of our members.”

Find out more about ACE Northern Ireland. Search for members in Northern Ireland.