Debate contribution: Social Housing: Victims of Domestic Violence

Debate contribution by Mr Gordon Lyons on 15 June 2026.

MLA: Mr Gordon Lyons
Party at the time: Democratic Unionist Party
Date: 15 June 2026
Type: Debate contribution (made as a minister)
Business: Oral Answers to Questions
Heading: Social Housing: Victims of Domestic Violence
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5614187

Text

Yes, absolutely. While we understand that people are rightly horrified about what happened in north Belfast last Monday, nothing can excuse the violence and disorder that we witnessed in the days and nights that followed. Everyone has the right to peaceful protest, but, sadly, there are people who are intent on destroying the communities that they claim that they are there to serve. That is absolutely wrong. My staff in the Department and those in the Housing Executive have been working around the clock to ensure that the people who have been displaced are cared for and supported. That has not been an easy task, and I put on record my thanks for all their efforts to assist those who most need help. As reported, by 5.00 pm on Sunday 14 June, 86 households had presented to the Housing Executive citing civil unrest, and 26 of those were requests for temporary accommodation. As a result of contact with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, those figures include 16 households being supported by Participation and the Practice of Rights and an additional 37 households being supported by other organisations.

187 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Assessment

Awaiting analysis

This record has not been analysed yet. It is not counted in any total until it has been assessed.

Disagree with this assessment?

Classifications can be challenged. A person reviews every challenge, and any change is recorded publicly above with its reason.

Challenge this classification