6. The Homelessness (Priority Need and Intentionality) (Wales) Regulations 2022

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:48 pm on 18 October 2022.

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Photo of Mabon ap Gwynfor Mabon ap Gwynfor Plaid Cymru 3:48, 18 October 2022

(Translated)

Now, could you explain what this means, please? Are you saying that those people in temporary accommodation will leave this accommodation and will sofa surf instead? Or, are you saying that local authorities are going to try to evict those who are not at risk of sleeping rough? Alternatively, can you confirm unambiguously that people in temporary accommodation will not be evicted only to face great uncertainty due to the new priority need category that you are introducing? Because, while we support the introduction of these regulations as a step in the right direction, the truth is that they will have unintended consequences. You are, to all intents and purposes, reintroducing the priority need policy once again. The danger is that this could lead to some local authorities reviewing the cases of those who are already in temporary accommodation and potentially concluding their responsibilities for those who are no longer considered at risk of sleeping rough. So, I’m sure you'll appreciate why we are seeking clarity on this point, please.