Sinn Fein (SF) has welcomed the announcement that two NI housing associations are to develop 4,000 new homes over the next five years.

Choice Housing and Apex secured loans from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to develop the properties.

Mr Fra McCann MLA said the announcement is "very good news".

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He said: "It will be particularly welcomed by the thousands of people on housing waiting lists as well as providing a much-needed boost to the construction industry.

"Both Choice and Apex should be commended and this should point the way for other associations to begin to deal with the serious problem of housing waiting lists.

"Both associations now need to spell out how this programme will be rolled out and where the new houses will be built."

(CD)