The Alliance Party is calling on the Belfast City Council to open up unused buildings throughout Northern Ireland for homeless people.

Alliance Councillor Sian O'Neill made the call after she brought a petition to the council, with over 16,000 signatures.

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East Belfast Councillor Ms O'Neill said: "I commend Amethyst Outreach and other groups for the work they are doing, which I why I wanted to facilitate the presenting of their petition. Whilst opening the doors of disused buildings for homeless people is not a solution in itself, it can help as part of a multi-agency approach to this issue.

"This petition shows the heart and compassion people from Belfast are known for, and is a chance for us to help our fellow citizens in need."

(CD/MH)