Governance

Tourism NI & Department for the Economy

Tourism NI is a non-departmental public body of the Department for the Economy (DfE). Tourism NI was established under the Development of Tourist Traffic Act (NI) 1948 and its constitution and continuation were affirmed by the Tourism (NI) Order 1992.  DfE determines the strategic framework within which Tourism NI’s objectives and targets are set.  These objectives, targets and performance measures are set out in Tourism NI’s Corporate Plan and ­Operating Plan.

The Department for the Economy Minister

The DfE Minister is accountable to the Assembly for the activities and performance of Tourism NI. The Minister’s responsibilities include approving Tourism NI’s strategic objectives and the policy and performance framework within which Tourism NI will operate. The Minister also keeps the Northern Ireland Assembly informed of Tourism NI’s performance.

Tourism NI Chairman and Board

The Chairman and Board members are appointed for a period of three years by the DfE Minister in accordance with the Code of Practice issued by the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland. The Chairman and the Board aim to ensure Tourism NI fulfils the aims and objectives set by the Department, that Tourism NI’s policies and actions support the wider strategic policies of the Minister, and that Tourism NI operates with probity.

Click here to view Board Members’ Biographies

Tourism NI Chief Executive

As the Accounting Officer of Tourism NI the Chief Executive is responsible for safeguarding public funds, ensuring propriety and regularity in handling of those public funds, and for the operational management of Tourism NI.  The Chief Executive’s role includes specific responsibilities in relation to planning and monitoring, on advising the Tourism NI Board, on managing risk and resources, and in accounting for Tourism NI’s activities. 

Click here to view Chief Executive’s Biography

Additional accountability

Tourism NI is subject to an annual audit undertaken by the Northern Ireland Audit Office (NIAO).  A copy of the Certificate and Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General to the Northern Ireland Assembly is included in Tourism NI’s Annual Report. The NIAO also produces an Annual Report to those charged with governance of Tourism NI and its subsidiaries pertaining to the audit of the accounts – the results of audit work and any recommendations for action.

Click here for Tourism NI's Annual Reports

Economy Committee

The Committee was established to advise and assist the Minister on matters within their responsibility. The Committee undertakes a scrutiny, policy development and consultation role with respect to the Department for the Economy and plays a key role in the consideration and development of legislation.

Click here to view Economy Committee homepage on NI Assembly website

The corporate governance of Tourism NI is subject to specific rules and procedures as detailed in the Management Statement and Financial Memorandum. This has been drawn up by the Department for the Economy in consultation with Tourism NI and with the approval of the Department of Finance and Personnel.