Fianna Fail has hit out at Housing Minister Simon Coveney over the lack of social houses in Co Monaghan.

Only just over 100 housing units have started being developed in the area since January 2015 despite over 200 units being approved.

TD for Cavan-Monaghan Niamh Smyth raised serious concerns about the housing situation in the county given the fact that there are almost 1,000 people on the housing list.

She said: "There are 966 applicants currently on the housing list in Co. Monaghan but only 106 housing units have been commenced since January 2015. This is deeply worrying and further highlights the need for a coherent housing strategy incorporating the refurbishment of vacant units and negotiating with NAMA for developments.

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"There were 205 homes approved for social housing in the past 2 years, but only 106 have been commenced. That's barely more than half of the approved stock – what has happened to the other 99 units? There appears to be a disconnect between the local authority and the Department of Housing, which must be addressed. These are much needed homes, which should be brought on stream as a matter of urgency.

"There are dozens of families across Co. Monaghan languishing on a housing waiting list while the Department fails to get to grips with the escalating housing crisis. Nearly 30 applicants have been waiting more than 10 years for approval. This is a devastating situation for these people and one which should not be tolerated."

(CD/MH)