HC Deb 24 May 1979 vol 967 c1217
13. Mr. Bradford

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what are the numbers of available sheltered dwellings and of places available in statutory old people's homes in the city of Belfast.

Mr. Goodhart

There are 321 units of sheltered housing accommodation in Belfast and 554 places in statutory old people's homes in the three Belfast districts of the Eastern Health and Social Services Board.

Mr. Bradford

Is the Minister aware that a plan evolved in 1975 stated that there should be 25 sheltered dwellings and places in old people's homes per 1,000 of the population and that the present level falls far short of that? Is he prepared to receive notification of three projects which have been delayed in recent months with the hope of getting them implemented in the South Belfast area in the near future?

Mr. Goodhart

I am aware of what the hon. Gentleman has said, and sadly aware that we have made only limited progress in the past four years in reaching the required level.