Political stability in Northern Ireland is creating the conditions for a 'public consensus for housing', a new report has found.

The Commission on the Future for Housing, chaired by peer Richard Best, published its first report analysing the issues and challenges facing the province's housing system last week.

It looked at what could comprise an effective housing system in the year 2020 and has invited Northern Ireland communities to join the debate.

The Commission said it is continuing to explore how the main government drivers can 'steer through immediate challenges and demands'.

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Some key areas where the report would like further discussion include setting a long term strategy for housing, strengthening the role of tenants, changes to the system of oversight for housing, and ways to find new forms of investment.

By 2020, the commission said it envisages a dramatic reduction in homelessness, and a narrowing of the gap between existing homes and housing need.

As well as high physical standards; mixed income and mixed tenure developments as the norm; flexible housing options to respond to changing circumstances; less waste in the housing system; and an environmentally efficient housing stock.

Lord Best said: "Our report seeks to stimulate debate on the key issues which the Commission believes require resolution.

"Our hope is that the commission's work will contribute to achieving lasting change for the housing system in Northern Ireland."

(PR/GK)