Derry faces a severe social housing shortage with 6,400 applications on the waiting list. SDLP MLA Mr. Durkan highlighted figures showing just 18 new build social homes completed in Foyle during 2025/26.

The data came from Communities Minister Gordon Lyons. Across Northern Ireland, 958 new social homes were finished in the same period.

Mr. Durkan stated the current completion rate means it would take over 350 years to address Derry's waiting list.

Foyle registers among areas of highest housing need, he noted.

The Executive allocated £115 million for social housing. The draft budget provides £3 million, creating a substantial funding gap.