Repairs will begin on Monday at a house in Cullybackey, County Antrim, damaged when a car crashed into it on 19 December. The property belongs to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. Tenant Margaret Kyle, aged 80, has been unable to return since the incident.

Her son Thomas Kyle contacted the NIHE repeatedly for updates. The agency initially said repairs could not proceed until Firmus Energy removed a gas box. Thomas Kyle noted his mother's health has declined since leaving the home. She suffered a stroke a few years ago but remained independent.

Firmus Energy received authorisation from the NIHE on Friday to carry out the necessary works. The firm contacted the network operator to schedule the task urgently.

The NIHE issued a statement confirming all permissions are now in place. A senior staff member informed the family. The agency regrets the delay and stated no rent is owed for the period Margaret Kyle has been absent.

Thomas Kyle confirmed work to remove the gas box started on Friday. He expects house repairs to follow on Monday.