More social and affordable homes must be built in order to effectively "tackle homelessness and the over reliance on temporary accommodation," according to Sinn Féin MLA Colm Gildernew.

The party's housing spokesperson made the call for more housing in reply to a new report released by the Audit Office which highlighted 'potentially unsustainable financial pressure' for homelessness services.

-- Advertisement --

"This report highlights the urgent need to build more social and affordable homes to tackle homelessness and support those currently relying on temporary accommodation," said Mr Gildernew.

"The lack of homes being built is increasing the demand for temporary housing and putting a huge amount of pressure on the Housing Executive's homelessness budget."

The Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA also highlighted that Sinn Féin is bringing legislation to the Assembly which would extend the period during which the Housing Executive is required to support and prevent someone at risk of becoming homeless.