NIFHA - our governance
![]() | Our MissionThe Federation’s purpose is to promote housing associations in Northern Ireland and speak authoritatively on their behalf. |
Governance
The Federation is the representative body for housing associations in Northern Ireland. It is owned and democratically controlled by the housing associations in its membership. Each member has equal voting power in General Meetings and (if elected or co-opted) in meetings of the governing body (NIFHA Council).
NIFHA’s constitution guarantees that any financial surpluses are re-invested to help the Federation accomplish its mission.
Our Vision
Our vision for the housing association movement to be a powerful engine of social inclusion, drawing on its ethos and experience of self-help, community development and environmental responsibility.
Our Council
![]() |
| John Patterson NIFHA Chair 2010-12 |
Our Council Members for 2010-11 are:
| Council Member | Association |
| Chris Alexander | Triangle |
| Kevin Butler | Connswater |
| Peter Caldwell | North and West |
| Arthur Canning | Trinity |
| David Duly | Habinteg |
| Ian Elliott (Vice Chair) | Oaklee |
| Jean Fulton | Helm |
| John Gill | Dungannon |
| Peter Howard | Abbeyfield UK |
| David McCallum | Co-ownership Housing |
| Clare McCarty | Clanmil |
| Joe McKnight | Wesley |
| John McLean | Fold |
| John Patterson (Chair) | Flax |
| Robert Roulston | Ulidia |
| Mark Turner | South Ulster |
![]() |
| Members of NIFHA's Council 2010-11 |
Our Committees
NIFHA's Council is supported by four committees:
Housing Operations:
It considers matters relating to the development, management and maintenance of housing association homes and the provision of housing support services.
Resources and Standards:
This committee considers matters relating to human resources, finance, continuous improvement, efficiency, performance standards, regulation and inspection of housing associations
Federation Business Committee:
The Committee considers the viability of the Federation, the proper stewardship of its human and other resources and all other aspects of the Federation’s corporate affairs.
NIHACT:
Within the limitations set by charity law, the Trust Deed and NIFHA’s constitution, this Committee considers matters relating to the Northern Ireland Housing Associations’ Charitable Trust (NIHACT).
Further information:
If you'd like to know more then please do not hesitate contact us.




