Mr Connor McCann, along with Mr Ian Potter (operations manager of the Association of Residential Letting Agents) gives a talk at a conference in Belfast organised by the Housing Rights Service titled:

 

"Shaping the Sector - unlocking the potential of renting privately"

 

Northern Irelands private rented sector is a keystone in the housing market. It has grown hugely in the last 10 years and makes up nearly 15% of the housing market. As well as substituting for owner occupation, the private rented sector is increasingly meeting the needs of those who cannot access social housing. It has a positive role to play in meeting housing need; easing pressure on social housing waiting lists; providing temporary accommodation for homeless people and housing those who simply cannot afford to buy. 

 

The government argues that more needs to be done, aimed at driving up standards within the sector and introducing more professionalism into management practices.