The following statement was issued today by Oliver Langdon, minister responsible for housing. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

Federal Provincial Housing Initiative 

I am pleased to tell the House that last week I attended Federal Provincial Territorial Housing Ministers conference held in Quebec City.

I am pleased with the outcome of these discussions. In some urban areas of this province there is a need to construct additional low rental accommodations; however, we must also protect existing investment in housing, some of which is in need of extensive repair. The original concept of this program addressed only new construction, but we were successful in arguing that there is no point in investing in a new supply of housing if we are not going to protect the current supply.

The framework that was agreed to by all jurisdictions on Friday provides considerable flexibility. Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation will commence bilateral negotiations with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, in the near future with the aim of defining a group of programs that will address differing housing needs throughout the province. The overall funding will be matched on a 50/50 basis by the province and CMHC.

These programs will assist Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to access safe, suitable and affordable housing. I feel strongly that this investment in housing for the more needy segment of our population will enhance the effectiveness of programs and services provided by my colleagues in Health and Community Services and in Education. In more ways than one, suitable housing provides a firm foundation for a healthy society.

In closing, I must state that this framework agreement is good news for the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and I can assure this House that we will work tirelessly to maximize the benefits attainable under our bilateral discussions with the federal government.

2001 12 03                          2:10 p.m.