12 January 2000

£3.2M FUNDING FOR THE DEPARTMENT FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

The Minister for Social Development, Nigel Dodds MLA, today confirmed an extra £3.2M funding for the Department for Social Development.

Commenting on the additional funding for the current financial year the Minister said:

"These extra funds are very welcome and will assist the Department to deliver on its wider social and economic priorities on both the urban regeneration and housing fronts. In particular, the extra £2.2m for housing will help overcome short-term pressures on the Housing Executive’s budget and will ensure that planned improvement and maintenance work can continue. Equally, the extra £1m for urban regeneration will help to maintain current programmes in this important area."

Concluding Mr Dodds said: "Investment in housing and urban regeneration has a direct impact on communities and people in greatest need. Maintaining a sustained level of funding for both these areas will remain an important priority for the Department."