On the surface, the house price boom has left existing homeowners sitting pretty. First-time buyers and low-income families were viewed as the big losers.

However, such was the scale of the property upswing that now, as the market cools, even many of the 'winners' are starting to feel the pinch.

The reason? The parents of today's teenagers realise they will have to subsidise their children's entry into the housing market if the bubble continues.

Mrs Ritchie, or any minister, would be wise to avoid over-meddling in the property market. However, today's proposals represent some fresh and energetic thinking.

Four aspects are particularly positive. The new eco-village is a bold proposal that will, hopefully, set new 'green' standards in private housing.

The social housing provisions and plan to tackle deprivation in the Village area of Belfast are also encouraging. And anything that creates more mixed-religion housing areas is most welcome.

Mrs Ritchie has delivered on her promise. Her plan has yet to be ratified by the Executive, but it has much to recommend it.