The MLA for East Belfast was speaking after attending the launch of 127 new homes close to the Castlereagh Road, one of 10 promised shared neighbourhood schemes support by TBUC – Together, Building a United Community.
Chris Lyttle MLA said: “As we move forward in building a shared future for everyone in Northern Ireland, it is essential we encourage people from all backgrounds to live side by side.
“Fold Housing is to be commended for its efforts in advancing shared housing in South and East Belfast. With local schools and the community involved, this project has generated fantastic relationships between the local people.
“Segregation costs our society over £1 billion every year, an unnecessary burden at a time when Northern Ireland is facing severe financial hardship. It is now two years since TBUC was released, and yet little progress has been made on delivering the promises OFMdFM made to everyone about progressing a shared future.
“They must do better.”