An ink distribution assembly for a page width ink jet printhead integrated circuit having sets of ink inlet openings for receiving particular colour ink is provided. The assembly includes a carrier having opposed ink supply and printhead sides which defines feed openings in fluid communication with the inlet openings of the integrated circuit. The supply side defines discrete feed formations in fluid communication with the inlet openings for receiving particular colour ink. The printhead side defines supply channels in fluid communication with the feed formations via passages defined by the carrier. A cover is engaged at the supply side and is shaped with the supply side so as to define a roof for, and pathways in fluid communication with, the feed formations. The carrier defines supply openings in fluid communication with the pathways and includes cover plates engaged at the printhead side to define roofs for the supply channels.