Gargash reiterates call for co-operation in housing

He also highlighted the political effectiveness of FNC in mirroring public concerns and relaying them to the governmental decision makers.

He reiterated on the importance of co-operation in housing, a topic of discussion at the FNC session, which endorsed the federal government decision to build 40,000 residential units for UAE nationals over the coming five years. Dr Gargash praised FNC members on highlighting the demand for national housing, which was acknowledged by Minister of Public Works His Excellency Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan.

HE Shiekh Hamdan had elaborated on the procedures for selecting the beneficiaries for national housing and defined key factors as the residential status of the beneficiary and socio-economic standards. These determinants ensured that there was little favoritism or other short-cuts in housing allocation. He also highlighted the role played by local authorities in providing adequate land for construction.

HE Gargash explained, "The FNC session dealt with an issue of nation-wide importance - housing - and was marked by the lively discussions of the members of the federal government and the FNC. All procedures involved in national housing were discussed effectively. I reiterate the call of His Excellency Sheikh Hamdan to enhance the co-operation of federal and local authorities in speeding up the execution of the housing plan."

He added, "I congratulate members of the FNC on the 36 anniversary of this constitutional arm of the UAE State. The transitional phase of FNC, now, constitutes an important part in its eventual transformation into a more active role as defined by the political agenda of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan."

The FNC discussions also asserted the need to elevate the minimum wage cap so as to include more nationals and the possibilities of some of the beneficiaries of repaying the loan. HE Sheikh Hamdan urged the members to send any recommendations or suggestions to a related committee that has been set up for following up on the issue.