What is the distinction between an estate agent and a letting agent? Why is it important for consumers in Northern Ireland to distinguish between the… Read More »How does the regulation of residential letting agents in Northern Ireland compare with the rest of the UK?
The private rented sector plays a vital role in the Northern Ireland housing market. There has been a focus on the regulation of the sector in recent years in the form of landlord registration, tenancy deposit schemes and new Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) legislation. Given recent regulatory developments in England, Wales and Scotland, how does the strength of the regulatory framework of letting agents in Northern Ireland compare?
Homelessness is a highly emotive issue and attention on the plight of those who are homeless in Northern Ireland has gained particular momentum over recent months with housing, homelessness and many other organisations working determinedly to raise awareness of the multi-dimensional nature of homelessness here.
Read More »The many faces of homelessness in Northern Ireland
Good quality, affordable housing plays a significant role in maintaining physical, mental and social wellbeing. Additionally, the housing market is an important driver of economic growth and regeneration. Therefore, it may be a concern that housing supply is not keeping up with demand in Northern Ireland.
The Third Sector makes a substantial, but at times unrecognised, contribution to society in Northern Ireland. It is a key provider of health/social care; housing/housing support; education and training; environmental protection; childcare; youth services; sport, arts, and culture; and welfare advocacy. It is often a champion of social justice and human rights; plays a key role in tackling poverty and social exclusion; promotes gender equality and community cohesion; and seeks to safeguard the rights of the marginalised. It is dynamic and innovative, increasingly focused on sustainability through the creation of social enterprise and is undoubtedly an integral contributor to our economy. Yet it will continue to face significant internal and external challenges that will test its resilience over the forthcoming mandate and beyond.
The Welfare Reform Bill was undoubtedly one of the most contentious pieces of legislation to come before the Assembly in the last mandate. Where have we got to and what challenges lie ahead?
Read More »The challenge of implementing welfare reform in Northern Ireland
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