A report has revealed the Shankill is the most deprived area of Northern Ireland.

Figures were released by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency after they performed a region wide survey comparing Northern Ireland's various wards.

The study looked at seven different factors, which contribute to deprivation giving each area an overall score.

The factors used in the study were income; employment; health and disability; education, skills and training; proximity to services; living environment; crime and disorder.

The Shankill had the highest total score with areas in Belfast making up most of the top 10 places on the list; the top three were Shankill, Falls and Whiterock.

Frank McCoubrey, Independent Unionist for the Shankill said: "We have elected politicians now in Stormont, who are the decision makers. I would be hoping the politicians know the problems in the Shankill and throughout the whole of the city of Belfast and will tackle those problems head on.

"We have been waiting now for many years for regeneration plans to be implemented, bringing housing up to scratch and employment in the area.

"For some reason plans keep on being shelved or appraisals are being done. This can't continue. People are crying out for support."

He added: "We need to stabilise the area and give the children and the grandchildren a future."

(DW/JM)