Martina Anderson and Margaret Ritchie

Martina Anderson not listening, again, on Monday 7 April 2008 at NI Assembly.

Social Development

Social Housing Projects: Foyle

1. Ms Anderson asked the Minister for Social Development to detail the additional social housing projects she has planned for the Foyle constituency given her enhanced budget and the acute need for social housing in the area. (AQO 2699/08)

The Minister for Social Development (Ms Ritchie): I thank the Member for recognising that I negotiated a considerable increase in the draft Budget. However, it gives me nothing more than the realistic budget that I sought in the first place, so there is not much scope for many new projects over and above the level being planned by the Housing Executive. However, I am committed to achieving or bettering the Govern­ment's target of 1,500, 1,750 and 2,000 new social housing starts. That represents a steady increase over recent years, and I will ensure that the Foyle constituency receives its fair share.

Ms Anderson: Go raibh maith agat. I remind the Minister that she told the House on 26 February that:

"I have been given the money, and I am building the houses." — [Official Report, Vol 28, No 2, p61, col 1].

Now we are being told that she did not get enough money.

In the context of the acute need for social housing in Derry, will the Minister confirm whether all privately-rented properties in the Derry area and beyond, where the tenant is in receipt of housing benefits, are inspected to ensure that they are fit for habitation?

Ms Ritchie: Obviously the Member did not listen to what I said. In October 2007, I clearly indicated that the budget that was allocated for my Department was inadequate. Even though some Members to my right said that I should stop whingeing and get on with it, I decided to continue the analysis and negotiation until I achieved a much enhanced budget. In fact, in my original answer to the Member, I thanked her for recognising that fact.

There is a requirement for 1,081 units of accommo­dation in Foyle over the next five financial years. The social housing development programme, which I have approved, provides for 1,136 dwellings to be built. I have taken on board what the Member said about privately-rented properties, and I will ensure that inspections take place.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• Sinn
• Fein
• SDLP