Homeless Figures Above 20,000 In The North

Approximately 20,592 people are currently classed as homeless across Northern Ireland, according to new figures.

Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey responded to a request for information from SDLP representative Mark H Durkan MLA.

The numbers show areas like Derry and North Belfast having particularly high homeless figures, with 2,526 people on the waiting list in Durkan's own constituency of Foyle.

The Foyle MLA will now look to engage with Minister Hargey to press for urgent action.


"These figures are startling and behind the statistics are individuals, families and many children waiting in anguish," Durkan said. "The time for robust and honest conversations about tackling housing shortages has long past.

"My own constituency of Foyle has more than 2526 people on the waiting list. This is yet another example of the deprivation people in Derry have had to ensure and it is about time we got our fair share and a properly balanced regional economy.

"Urgent action must be taken before more and more individuals end up on the streets; that is why the SDLP has consistently called for the creation of a comprehensive 20-year Housing Strategy to address issues including supply, affordability, regulation of the Private Rented Sector and homelessness."

(CM/JG)