The Board

The Board consists of three executive and three non-executive Directors, and the roles of Chairman and Managing Director are separate. The Board has appointed John McGuckian as Chairman. Each director brings independent judgement to bear on issues of strategy, risk and performance. Each Director is subject to re-election every 3 years.

Board Procedures

The Board holds regular meetings (normally at least ten per annum) and there is contact between meetings as required in order to progress the Group's business. The Directors receive regular and timely information in a form and quality appropriate to enable the Board to discharge its duties. The Board has a formal schedule of matters specifically reserved to it for decision, which covers key areas of the Group's business including approval of financial statements, budgets (including capital expenditure), acquisitions or disposals and dividends. Certain additional matters are delegated to Board Committees. There is a procedure for Directors in the furtherance of their duties to take independent professional advice if they consider this necessary. All Directors have access to the advice and services of the Company Secretary who is responsible to the Board for ensuring that Board procedures are followed and that applicable rules and regulations are complied with.

The Board recognises the need for directors to be aware of their legal responsibilities as directors and it ensures that directors are kept up to date on the latest corporate governance guidance and best practice. New directors are given the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the operation of the Group, to meet with executive management and to access any information they require.