Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald appointed three interim members to the governing body of Northern Regional College. The appointees are Ms Paula Leitch, Mr David Nichol and Mr Sam Snodden.

The appointments take effect from 13 April 2026 and last up to 12 months until substantive members are named.

The Department for the Economy made the appointments following an exception to the Code of Practice issued by the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland.

Northern Regional College operates as one of six further education colleges in Northern Ireland. These colleges function as non-departmental public bodies under the Department for the Economy, established by the Further Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997.

Governing bodies oversee efficient management of the colleges, provision of further education to students and strategic direction. They account for needs of the business sector and local community in service delivery.

Governing body members receive £250 per meeting and £150 per committee meeting or sanctioned event, plus travel and subsistence allowances at Northern Ireland Civil Service rates.

Appointments occur on merit with no role for political activity. None of the appointees reported political activity in the last five years.