SUPPORTING PEOPLE FUND IN NORTHERN IRELAND

That this House notes with deep concern the proposal under the Review of Public Administration to transfer the Supporting People Fund to the new super councils in Northern Ireland; believes that this important fund, which is operating successfully in its current format, providing help to the most vulnerable and potentially challenging client groups, ought to continue functioning on a regional basis; and urges the Government to rescind this decision and to retain the fund in its current strategic role working alongside the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and other service providers in the housing sector.