The Housing and Communities Board has published its interim definition of an Essential Worker for housing purposes.
It includes anyone employed in Health and Care, Education and Childcare, Emergency Services, and Prison and Probation Services.
Answering a question from Douglas Central MHK Chris Thomas, chair David Ashford, said the definition was developed by a Board subgroup.
“No detailed analysis of the labour market or housing availability and affordability was undertaken when determining this definition,” he confirmed, adding that “these factors were considered at a high level”.
The sectors were selected based on “the perceived need for Essential Workers from overseas.”
However, he clarified that “there is currently no definition applied in relation to public sector housing, as Essential Workers are not given priority”.
Mr Ashford indicated the definition is interim, adding: “The Board intends to revisit the definition and its wider policy on Essential Workers in the coming months. The first step will be determining the scale and nature of any problem.”
4 Comments