Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie MLA, has just announced that responsibility for provision and management of Traveller transit sites will not transfer to local councils (as mooted previously as part of the roll out of the RPA) and will remain with the Housing Executive.  This news is welcomed by Traveller support groups and Community Places which have worked hard to convince government that provision of and management of all sites should be a responsibility of central government.

The Housing Executive will continue to be responsible for providing and managing Traveller accommodation including serviced permanent and transit sites and also for the provision of support services which includes engagement with relevant bodies particularly those responsible for health and education.