Skip the NI Direct Bar
Skip navigation

New Chief Commissioner appointed to the Planning and Water Appeals Commissions

The First Minister, the Rt Hon Peter D Robinson MLA, and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness MP MLA, have announced the appointment of Ms Elaine Kinghan as Chief Commissioner to the Planning and Water Appeals Commissions. The appointment takes effect from 27 January 2012.
~ Wednesday, 1 February 2012

Ms Elaine Kinghan, who is currently the Deputy Chief Commissioner, has been with the Planning and Water Appeals Commissions since 1998.

Mrs Kinghan replaces Mrs Maire Campbell whose term of office ended on 30 November 2011.

Political activity plays no part in the selection process and Ms Kinghan has not engaged in any political activity in the last five years.

Notes to editors:

  1. The Planning Appeals Commissions (PAC) is an independent appeals body established under the Planning (NI) Order 1991 to decide a wide range of appeals against decisions of the Department of Environment’s Planning Service and to report on various matters under planning and other legislation.
  2. The Water Appeals Commission (WAC) is a separate tribunal NDPB set up under Article 7 of the Water and Sewerage Services (NI) Order 1973 and continues under the Water and Sewerage Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006.
  3. The Chief Commissioner is appointed by the First Minister and deputy First Minister under the provisions of the Planning (NI) Order 1991. The appointment is permanent and pensionable, attracting remuneration within the range £80,000 to £85,000.
  4. The position of Chief Commissioner was advertised widely in the press and relevant planning publications and the appointment was made following a selection process.
  5. All media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office: Tel 028 9037 8142. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.