On reports that UDA ordered Catholics out of a mixed housing development

The WP has been made aware that after attacks on homes in the Annalee and Alloa streets some months ago, a ‘peace deal’ was agreed that would allow families time to get new homes before leaving the development. This is outrageous fascism in itself, but it seems the sectarian campaign is due to resume, and this ongoing outrage must be condemned by all in our society. We are in the midst of a housing crisis, and thousands of families find themselves in temporary accommodation across Northern Ireland. They have had to move to areas away from family, friends, and support networks, which is particularly hard for children. All of this places an inevitable mental and physical burden on parents. 

What right does any paramilitary organisation have to decide who should live in any public housing developments? The answer is simple, none whatsoever. The Workers Party in our response to the housing section of the programme for government flagged up the role that sectarianism has played and continues to play in helping to creating the housing crisis.

Those citizens in Northern Ireland who are languishing on housing waiting lists and in temporary accommodation have the right to ask those who are elected to govern to house them. Politicians and relevant state bodies should make it clear that housing needs will not be based on geographical lines drawn by paramilitary groups, political considerations, or any other sectarian rationale. It is now time for all our political, civic, and community organisations to condemn these actions. It is now time to speak up and speak out.

A house is a home not a tribal marker or a bargaining chip. It is time for our political leadership to reinforce that message.