§ Lord HYLTONasked Her Majesty's Government:
What emergency accommodation is available in Northern Ireland for families and individuals suddenly forced to leave their homes sometimes in the middle of the night, and who is responsible for its administration.
§ The PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE, NORTHERN IRELAND OFFICE (Lord Donaldson of Kingsbridge)The Department of Health and Social Services has a statutory duty under the Health and Personal Social Services (Northern Ireland) Order 1972 to make arrangements to provide assistance to persons who have been rendered 631WA homeless and are in need of temporary accommodation. The Department has delegated the administration of these arrangements to the four Health and Social Services Boards in Northern Ireland which are required to make detailed arrangements to provide temporary accommodation for persons rendered homeless in an emergency situation. These arrangements include the use of schools and halls, which have been earmarked after consultation with Churches and other authorities such as Education and Library Boards. The responsibility for the provision of permanent accommodation rests with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.