Audit Office housing associations findings of serious concern

East Belfast Alliance MLA Chris Lyttle has said he is deeply concerned by the Audit Office’s findings that the performance of 14 out of 33 housing associations here is ‘unacceptable’. He has called for the Minister for Social Development to address this issue to ensure maintenance issues are dealt with more quickly and effectively.

Chris Lyttle MLA said: “It is staggering to see that the performance of almost half of housing associations here has been deemed unacceptable by the Audit Office.

“Having dealt with housing matters in East Belfast for a number of years, these findings would suggest there are issues in the system that need to be addressed. Maintenance in particular is an area that must be improved.

“At a time when public finances are under pressure people have a right to expect value for money.

“Whilst I welcome the quick response from housing associations criticised to draw up action plans, I would welcome a response from the Minister for Social Development to state what he thinks could be done to address any problems in the housing system.”

ENDS