Seminar Success

Cork Social Housing calls for Fundamental Change in Government Policy

Cork, Wednesday 15th September 2010: The Cork Social Housing Forum called for a fundamental shift in Government Policy towards Social Housing at a seminar organised by the Cork Social Housing Forum as part of the European Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion. In 2008 there were 56,249 in need of social housing in Ireland, a 29% increase in three years. Social housing remains a serious issue in Irish society.
Speaking at the seminar, Aaron O’Connell, Cork Social Housing Forum spokesperson said, “Although social housing provisions are increasing in Ireland they are not keeping pace with the full spectrum of people’s housing needs. Those needs are complex and varied. A set of keys alone will not address the issues. We need to build strong, inclusive, sustainable communities that have all the necessary supports for people to successfully maintain their tenancies long-term. The Housing Market alone will never facilitate this.”

He added, “The Government needs to move away from the concept that the market will provide for everyone’s housing needs. We have seen that this course of action has not been successful. When implemented correctly, social housing will address the full spectrum of people’s needs. We know from experience that the Local Authorities working in partnership with the voluntary providers works. Social housing works.”

The Cork Social Housing Forum was founded to raise awareness of social and affordable accommodation issues and to lobby the government and policy makers at local and national level with a view to enhancing accommodation provision in Cork city and city hinterland area.
About EY2010
Each year, the European Union selects a theme of general interest aimed at raising public awareness and drawing national governments' attention to the related issues. 2010 is the year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion.

Objectives of the European Year:

To recognise the fundamental right of people affected by poverty and social exclusion and to allow them to live in dignity and to take an active part in society;

To promote public support for social inclusion policies and foster commitment by all public and private actors;

To promote a more cohesive society, where it is recognised that society as a whole benefits from combating poverty;

To renew the pledge of the EU and its Member States to combat poverty and social exclusion, and to involve all stakeholders in the pursuit of that aim.

Throughout 2010, several hundred activities are being organised, including awareness campaigns, innovative actions, creative solidarity schemes, discussions, conferences, and competitions, which highlight achievements and promote stories related to poverty and social exclusion.
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