HOMELESSNESS increased by thirty-three per cent over the last four years according to the latest District Housing Plan for Limavady.
The increase in people claiming homelessness over the same period was even greater. Twice as many people claimed to be homeless in Limavady this year as did in 2004.
However, the Housing Executive only accepted the claims of 142 people, an increase
of thirty-three per cent from 92 in 2004.
Housing Executive Manager for Limavady, Sean Mackie, said tackling the problem of homelessness continues to be a key priority.
Despite the worrying long-term trend he pointed to the fact that since March 2007 the numbers have decreased slightly.
Mr Mackie spoke about Modernising Services and said that a new Rates Relief Unit and Customer Services Unit have been set up in the Area Office in Londonderry.
An Area based rent accounting and housing benefit units are scheduled for late summer.
"As I reported last year Limavady will be jointly managed with Magherafelt," said Mr Mackie.
"The local office will remain in Limavady town which will retain the core services of housing, homelessness, maintenance, estate management and community linkages.
"The local office will continue to provide assistance and advice in relation to housing benefit and rent accounting.
"We are committed to ensuring that our comprehensive housing service is maintained locally and that we continue to deliver an efficient, modern service to the entire community.
"I would like to thank the District's elected representatives for their interest and hard work on housing issues. I would like to thank "Councillor Michael Carten for his contribution in representing Limavady Council on the Northern Ireland Housing Council," he said.
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