HE chair saysabolition not on the cards

Mr Hoodless claimed it was clear that the reform programme was not about the abolition of the Housing Executive.

His comments follow a series of walk-outs and pickets by Housing Executive staff across Northern Ireland and in Londonderry city centre.

“The Board is grateful to the Minister for speaking with us about his recent statement on social housing reform,” he said.

“The Board believes, like the Minister and many others, that change is required to provide access to private sector funds to support continued progress in tackling different aspects of housing need in Northern Ireland. This means tenants can be assured of good quality living standards whether this in existing or new homes.”

The Housing Executive chair welcomed the Minister’s commitment to the full engagement of tenants and staff in any future changes to the Housing Executive, and his reassurance on the protection of jobs.

“It is clear that the reform programme is not about the abolition of the Housing Executive but the restructuring of the organisation to maximize benefits of moving forward,” he said.

“We appreciate that this is the beginning of a process and, again, we welcome the Minister’s commitment to the involvement of the Housing Executive in developing the detail of his proposals,” he added.

He said the Board was determined the principles that have guide the Housing Executive since 1971 - those of fairness, equity, objectivity and transparency in the delivery of housing services - will be maintained.

“The Housing Executive and its staff have a proud history of delivering high quality services and decent homes. The Board will be ensuring that this continues until new structures are agreed and put in place,” he commented.