I propose to take Questions Nos. 177, 178 and 179 together.
The Government's integrated strategy on homelessness clarified the respective roles of the local authorities and health boards in providing services for homeless persons. In essence, local authorities have responsibility for providing accommodation for homeless persons and health boards are responsible for their care and welfare needs.
In line with the Government's strategy, local authorities, working together with health boards and voluntary bodies, are currently drawing up local action plans to meet the needs of homeless persons in their areas. These plans will identify what additional services, including accommodation and settlement and outreach programmes will be provided in each area over the next three years. In the meantime I continue to urge local authorities to provide directly or acquire additional premises for use as accommodation for homeless persons.