SDLP Social Development spokesperson Mark H Durkan has said he is concerned by DSD Minister Nelson McCausland’s decision to suspend the double-glazing scheme he rolled out across a variety of Housing Executive properties and has suggested that questions need to be answered about the tendering process.

The Foyle MLA was speaking after the minister said he was forced to suspend the scheme on the grounds of cost.

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Mr Durkan said: "I am concerned that once this scheme has stopped that it may take a while to get started again.

"Many Housing Executive properties are long overdue this basic improvement which, although not a panacea, will go some way to making people's homes easier to heat.

"It is right and proper however that best value for the work is sought.

"It is ridiculous that the exorbitant prices being charged by the original contractor are only being discovered now and that throws up questions around the tendering process.

"I would be hopeful that local contractors are in a position to apply when the scheme goes back out to tender."

(CD)