14 December 2006
HANSON CALLS FOR DEBATE ON COST OF HOUSING
Social Development Minister David Hanson MP is calling for views on how to tackle the growing cost of housing in Northern Ireland.
His appeal coincides with the publication today of Sir John Semple's Interim Report into affordable housing. The Minister welcomed the report that sets out an assessment of the issues and makes initial proposals for public consultation.
He said: "There is a growing affordability problem across Northern Ireland. Access to affordable housing is critical to quality of life. The recent Homelessness Week highlighted that those who cannot find decent accommodation pay a high personal price.
"Good housing can help improve people's health and well-being and contributes to the stability and well-being of our communities.
"Government is committed to making sure that everyone has access to a decent affordable home. We recognise that housing has become increasingly difficult for many people to access and this is why I initiated this review in September.
"I welcome Sir John's interim report and will be examining the proposals in detail. I have to make an assessment of what Government can do and the report is of great help in this. I understand the challenges that are facing those trying to find appropriate accommodation. The proposals are timely and I have asked that he maintains momentum to elicit the views of communities and stakeholders to deliver final recommendations to me in March.
"I would encourage everyone with an interest in this important subject to consider the interim report and make their views known. It is important that there is a serious debate on these issues as they have the potential to affect profoundly the delivery of housing and development of communities in the future."
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- The Review into Affordable Housing was launched by Minister for Social Development, David Hanson MP on 5 September 2006.
- More information can be found at www.dsdni.gov.uk
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