Ireland
UK
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A summit on housing is set to place later this week focusing on the issues of a historical underinvestment in wastewater infrastructure.
Northern Ireland's Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon will host the housing and infrastructure event on Thursday 12 March, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss the importance of infrastructure in delivering much needed homes.
Addressing the constraints on the future of housing, the meeting will shed light on the challenges relating to water and wastewater infrastructure in delivering housing across Northern Ireland.
Speaking ahead of the summit, Minister Mallon said: "Access to fair and affordable housing should be a right for all our citizens. That is why I am keen to understand how my Department can assist in the provision of this much-needed affordable housing. Housing providers also have a role to play and I believe that by working together we can find innovative ways to introduce more sustainable measures in developments that could help alleviate the pressures on wastewater systems. There are other areas such as planning, information sharing and pilot projects that I believe can also help us deliver on a more ambitious housing programme if we work in partnership.
"I'm pleased to announce that I will be holding a housing and infrastructure summit this week as a first step to building on that partnership working – and delivering real radical change for citizens' lives across the North. Alongside working closely with my Executive colleagues, it is vital for good governance that we engage meaningfully with all sectors to help deliver the future that our communities deserve.
"My priorities will always be focused on improving people's lives, connecting communities, tackling regional imbalance and addressing the climate emergency. Key to achieving these objectives is ensuring that everyone has access to a good quality, secure and affordable home. I want to make sure that my Department plays its role in delivering this and making this a reality for individuals and families across Northern Ireland. I hope this summit will be a first key step to working collaboratively with stakeholders to help achieve these aims."
(CM/JG)
