9.—(1) The proceedings of the Council shall not be invalidated by any vacancy in the membership of the Council, or of any committee of the Council, or by any defect in the appointment of any member.N.I.
(2) Without prejudice to section 19(1)(a)(v) of the Interpretation Act (Northern Ireland) 1954, the Council shall make standing orders relating to—
(a)the convening of meetings of the Council and of committees of the Council;
(b)the fixing of the quorum for such meetings;
(c)the conduct of business at such meetings;
(d)the keeping of minutes, accounts and other records;
(e)the signing of cheques;
(f)the custody of deeds and other documents;
(g)the duties of officers of the Council; and
(h)such other matters connected with the conduct of its business as it thinks fit.
(3) In making standing orders under this paragraph the Council shall take into account any guidance given by the Department as to the provisions it regards as appropriate for inclusion in the standing orders.