Social housing: Intimidation targets will not get application points

Lyons said that although intimidation points would be removed, those already awarded these points would retain them.

“Applicants who have experienced violence or abuse, or who are at risk of violence or abuse, whatever the motivation or perpetrator, will continue to be assessed and provided with emergency assistance under the homelessness legislation,” he added.

“The removal of intimidation points will not alter the Housing Executive’s duty to support those who need such emergency assistance and who find themselves unable to remain in their home.”

Grainia Long, chief executive of the Housing Executive, said the removal of the intimidation points was something they had recommended.

“We believe it will enable more appropriate ranking and allocation of social housing for those experiencing violence or risk of violence or domestic abuse – whatever the circumstances,” she said.

“Removal of intimidation points will, therefore, offer more parity between victims of violence and abuse and those at risk of violence and abuse, regardless of the motivation or source.”

Assembly member Gerry Carroll, from People Before Profit, said the blanket removal of intimidation points would put people’s lives at risk.

“The solution is to extend eligibility to all victims of intimidation, including those impacted by domestic abuse,” he said.

“People who have been intimidated or subject to sectarian, racist or homophobic attacks will lose out on the points they need to be allocated a new, permanent home in a place of safety.”