Innovation and resilience by the housing sector in the face of the economic downturn has been celebrated by the professional body for housing at a glittering awards ceremony in Belfast.

The achievements and success of housing professionals across Northern Ireland were recognised by the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) at its first ever Northern Ireland Housing Awards at the Culloden Estate and Spa.

Five award categories celebrated excellence in building sustainable communities, endeavour in the community, cross border housing, and building skills and capacity; a further award recognised the particular role played by an inspirational colleague in the sector.

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The highest accolades go to the five category winners:

- Ark Housing Association for the Developing Skills and Capacity Award

- Angela McGukin and staff from the SL-eight project for the Endeavour in the Community Award

- Carvill Group for the Building Sustainable Communities Award

- Oaklee Housing Group for the Cross Border Housing Award; and

- Brenda Parker from Housing Rights Service for the Inspirational Colleague Award

The 'Cross Border Housing' Award was presented to the winners by ministers from both jurisdictions in Ireland; Minister Margaret Ritchie from the Northern Ireland Department for Social Development and Minister Michael Finneran from the Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government in the Republic of Ireland.

CIH President Howard Farrand said: "It has been a privilege to travel to Northern Ireland and hear at first hand the level of skill and innovation in practice across the housing sector. Northern Ireland is well known for the calibre of its housing professionals; CIH is proud to host awards that showcase the real outcomes which this sector can deliver for communities.

"I have been particularly impressed by the support shown by Ministers from two jurisdictions who attended the awards. My warmest congratulations go to all winners and runners-up in very competitive categories."

(GK/BMcc)