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NLIS 4
September 20, 2000
(Municipal and Provincial Affairs)

 

Ministers responsible for housing meeting in Fredericton

Federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for housing met in Fredericton yesterday to discuss housing issues and concerns. This was the first time in more than five years that federal, provincial and territorial ministers have met and they agreed to meet regularly and to work together on research and policy initiatives in several key areas.

Joan Marie Aylward, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs and minister responsible for housing, was satisfied with the outcome of the meetings. "I am pleased that the federal government is willing to partner with the provinces and territories in addressing housing issues," said the minister. "With future federal support, we may be able to enhance our provincial Northern Coastal Labrador Strategic Initiative." The minister added that flexibility is necessary among the partners as housing issues differ in the various regions of the country.

The $23 million provincial Northern Coastal Labrador Strategic Initiative was announced earlier this year and is funded 100 per cent by the province. The housing component will provide $7.7 million over the next three years to address the housing needs in the five northern coastal Labrador communities of Nain, Hopedale, Rigolet, Makkovik and Postville. This component of the Northern Coastal Labrador Strategic Initiative will provide $6.5 million for the construction/acquisition of homes for needy individuals and families, and a further $1.2 million for the renovation of existing dwellings.

Ministers discussed the lack of affordable rental housing and housing problems in rural and remote areas of Canada. They agreed to meet in 2001 to review progress on these issues and to determine next steps.

Media contact: Glenn Bruce, Communications, (709) 729-1983 .

2000 09 20 3:50 p.m.


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