The Chief Executive of the Special EU Programmes Body in Northern Ireland has resigned.

John McKinney was suspended from duty in May because he was the subject of a police investigation, relating to an issue arising from his employment with Omagh District Council.

While the police investigation is still ongoing, the British and Irish authorities agreed to lift the suspension last Friday with the knowledge that Mr McKinney would resign from the post this Wednesday.

Commenting on the decision, Mr McKinney said: "I reiterate my belief that I acted at all times in good faith and with integrity in the matter under investigation by PSNI.

"I greatly welcome the fact that an amicable way forward has now been agreed, and that I can move on with my good name intact.”

Leading the staff of the organisation, Mr McKinney forged an extensive network of working partnerships in all sectors north and south and was instrumental in progressing the work of the EU programmes PEACE II and INTERREG III.

(MB)