The Irish Council for Social Housing (ICSH) has welcomed the announcement of €100m for social housing by Minister for Housing Jan O'Sullivan T.D.

ICSH Executive Director Donal McManus said: "Our members across the country have housing projects awaiting funding which will meet the needs of the most vulnerable in our society."

He added: "The multiplier effect this will create, in terms of employment, sustainable urban development and social cohesion, cannot be underestimated and strengthens the case to include a housing dimension in the proposed Government stimulus package."

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Mr McManus commented: "The allocation of €35m for voluntary housing associations is welcome however with large cuts to the social housing budget, it is essential that funding is prioritised to ensure that the most acute housing needs are being met in line with Government strategies such as the National Housing Strategy for People with Disabilities and the Homeless Strategy.

"Housing Associations are embracing a number of initiatives to ensure continued delivery of housing in the absence of capital funding. This can only work if all the stakeholders are around the table. Private financial institutions must now step up."

(CD)