We've rounded up some of the questions answered by Communities Minister Paul Givan during January.
Welfare Reform
To ask the Minister for Communities whether he has, or intends to explore the potential of a universal basic income model instead of the current benefit system. Mr Robin Swann, UUP- North Antrim. AQW9133-/16-21
Landlords and agents who fail to protect a tenant’s deposit face fixed penalty charges and, ultimately, prosecution. Solicitor Chris McGrath discusses the risks that landlords face if they don’t ensure that deposits have been adequately protected.
New research by Bristol University has investigated the UK poverty premium – when low-income households pay more for essential goods and services compared to those on higher incomes.
Helping to keep our members up-to-date with the latest information on housing legislation, policy and practice is an important part of the work of Housing Rights and a key function of the Policy and Practice Team. One way in which we do this is through the Housing Advice Practitioners’ Forum.
From 30th January 2017, the amount of time for which a claimant will be able to receive Housing Benefit whilst temporarily absent from Northern Ireland will be reduced, in most cases, to a maximum of 4 weeks. The change applies to both working age claimants and state pension credit age claimants.
Kate McCauley, Policy & Practice Manager with Housing Rights, calls for additional safeguards to be put in place following the passing of the mitigation regulations for the “Bedroom Tax”.
Housing Rights is seriously concerned that the potential dissolution of the Assembly could have the unintended consequence of the Executive failing to mitigate the introduction of the Social Sector Size Criteria (the so-called “bedroom tax”) in Northern Ireland.
A new telephone and email helpline service providing residential landlords in Northern Ireland with free confidential advice and information will be available from January 10th 2017.
On Friday 10 March, we will be having a drinks reception, some great live music and a bit of supper. And, always good for a any night out, its BYO (bring your own drink). So at £20 a ticket, it’s a bargain!
Helping to keep 
Kate McCauley, Policy & Practice Manager with Housing Rights, calls for additional safeguards to be put in place following the passing of the mitigation regulations for the “Bedroom Tax”.
A new telephone and email helpline service providing residential landlords in Northern Ireland with free confidential advice and information will be available from January 10th 2017.