Public meeting in Coleraine brings community together to discuss the housing crisis

People Before Profit East Derry branch has organised a public consultation meeting, on the topic of the escalating housing crisis and its devastating impact on working class communities. The meeting will take place in Infuse Artisan Tea Bar on Bridge Street in Coleraine, 24th Jan at 18:00.

Attendees will also provide feedback on draft proposals for MLA Gerry Carroll’s new private members bill. The ‘People’s Housing Bill’ aims to address some of the root causes of the housing crisis in the North, including unaffordability and rising rents, insecurity of tenure, homelessness and vacant homes.

“There are over 500 people in Causeway Coast & Glens alone, That’s 3.9 People for every 1000 in the Borough, giving us the fifth highest homelessness rate by council area in NI (NIHE)”, George McElhinney, a People Before Profit spokesperson said. “In the midst of this housing crisis, private landlords are allowed to inflict extortionate rent increases and evict tenants at will. According to CC&G council, Portballintrae may consist of as many as 51% second homes, with many other towns such as the ports and Bushmills ranging around 20-25%, all while people sleep rough in the streets.”

“I encourage all residents of Causeway Coast and Glens to come along to this public meeting. This will be an opportunity for discussion and debate, where people can share their vision for a Causeway Coast where everyone has a secure, affordable home.”