Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has welcomed the publication of Northern Ireland Housing Statistics for 2006/07.

Among the findings in the report, which detailed recent trends in housing in the province, there were approximately 712,600 (provisional) dwellings in Northern Ireland at 31 March 2007, which was an increase of 6,400 on March 2006.

Also, 14,731 new dwellings were started during 2006-07, of which 95 per cent were commissioned by the private sector.

Construction output for Private Sector new housing was 7.1 per cent higher in January to March 2006-07 was £164,000 (provisional), an increase of 22.4 per cent.

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"These figures show some progress made in tackling the array of housing issues we face in Northern Ireland. However, it shows the sheer scale of the challenges we face in housing."

She continued: "I am particularly concerned about the considerable increase in the waiting list for social housing, now over 36,000. The statistics demonstrate the real need for substantial new social housing and I will continue to make the case at the Executive for additional public investment.

Referring to the 21,013 households presented as homeless, which is a rise of 4.4 per cent on 2005-06, she said: "There is clearly so much more to do on social and affordable housing and homelessness. This is why during the current year, I have launched the 'Including the Homeless' strategy and robust action to implement the Semple review into affordable housing."

The Minister concluded: "I particularly welcome the significant progress made on fuel poverty. Last year we exceeded our targets on the Warm Homes Scheme by 28 per cent and delivered nearly 13,000 heating and insulation systems in the homes of elderly and vulnerable people. I am proud of this achievement."

(JM)