A Sinn Féin MLA has called for the mandatory registration of landlords.

Alex Maskey is to propose the motion later today in the Assembly.

Mr Maskey will ask Northern Ireland Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie, to address the problems facing residents in the Holylands area of South Belfast.

"The Department of Social Development is now holding a consultation on its Housing Bill and I would hope that the desire, and need, for the mandatory registration of landlords is reflected in this Bill," he said.

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"The onus is on the Social Development Minister to introduce this badly-needed piece of legislation."

The Holylands is a residential area near Queens University, which is home to hundreds of students. In March last year, 12 people were arrested as trouble marred St Patrick's Day celebrations. Students in the area have been frequently blamed for causing disruption to fellow residents.

Mr Maskey has said there are simply far too many people living in the area.

(NS/GK)