A Public Accounts Committee report states that £40 million was spent on temporary accommodation in Northern Ireland during 2024/25.

SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan, who chairs the committee, called on Communities Minister Gordon Lyons to address the department's spending on temporary housing. McCrossan stated that the expenditure serves as a short-term measure that fails to resolve the root causes of homelessness or the shortage of social housing.

He noted that more than 30,000 households face homelessness, with the social housing waiting list nearly double that number. McCrossan pointed out that the minister will miss his own housing target for the year, despite some purchases of additional units by the Housing Executive.

The MLA stressed that families lack stability under current arrangements, with children often changing homes or schools abruptly. McCrossan urged the minister and Housing Executive to deliver a plan within a year that includes actions to boost housing supply and cut dependence on temporary options.

He emphasized that ongoing spending on temporary solutions lacks sustainability while families wait for permanent homes.