A Sinn Féin MLA has said the Housing Executive needs to explain the rationale behind their intention to establish a Belfast City Centre housing waiting list.

The West Belfast Fra McCann MLA said: "I have asked the Housing Executive what was the reason behind this change in policy and how it would impact on those already waiting on housing in areas of high demand like West and North Belfast

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"Because of the severe shortage in housing in these areas, some families are doubling up in one house, which is a throwback to the 1950s.

"The Housing Executive have said that the city centre will be neutral in terms of allocation but this flies in the face of allocating on need.

"The Housing Executive have questions to answer, not least, was political pressure brought to bear to move to this position?"

(CD/GK)