§ David BurnsideTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether discussions took place between representatives of the Housing Executive and local political parties over the future of the Protestant families who moved from the Torrens area of North Belfast in August. [188142]
§ Mr. SpellarYes. In the light of recent events the Housing Executive has continued to have discussions with the Democratic Unionist Party and the Progressive Unionist Party. The Housing Executive has also met with Sinn Fein (at its request) and briefed the Social Democratic and Labour Party. In recent years the residents of Torrens have been largely represented by the Democratic Unionist Party or Progressive Unionist Party. The Ulster Unionist Party has not initiated any discussions and has had no involvement with the Housing Executive in relation to Torrens for some time. The Housing Executive will continue to engage with local politicians over the future of the Torrens area.