Debate contribution: Housing (Amendment) Bill: Second Stage
Debate contribution by Mr Colm Gildernew on .
- MLA
- Mr Colm Gildernew
- Party at the time
- Sinn Féin
- Date
- 21 September 2026
- Type
- Debate contribution
- Business
- Private Members' Business
- Heading
- Housing (Amendment) Bill: Second Stage
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5743144
Read the official Assembly record
Text
Go raibh maith agat.
I thank the Minister for his update to that effect. Recently, the Minister announced a long-overdue, full-scale review of current homelessness legislation to include the examination of a statutory duty to prevent homelessness as exists in England, Scotland and Wales. I have always said that a more widespread review was needed and that the provisions in the Bill would work more effectively alongside other new provisions, such as a statutory prevention duty and duties for state bodies to cooperate, such as "Ask and Act" etc. Under the Speaker's guidance on Members' Bills, it was not possible for me, as a private Member, to launch a wholesale review of the homelessness legislation. While I welcome the announcement from the Minister, I am sure that he will not be surprised that I remain a little sceptical about the lack of urgency and priority that has been given to tackling homelessness to date. That said, I will gladly work with the Minister, the Department, the sector and anyone else who is willing to engage in the endeavour to expedite further much-needed reforms. The current time frame for the Minister's review suggested that any further potential legislation would not be ready until well into the next mandate. However, with this Bill, we have an opportunity to make a solid start on badly needed legislative reforms for those at risk of homelessness. Members, let us act together today to make a real difference. Vote in favour of the Bill to extend the period during which families and individuals at risk of homelessness can access support. Our people deserve no less.
269 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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