The following is being distributed at the request of the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

NLHC completes $151,000 upgrading on social housing units in Grand Falls-Windsor

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) has just completed $151,000 on modernization and improvement work in Grands Falls-Windsor. Joan Burke, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment and Minister Responsible for NLHC, and Ray Hunter, MHA, Windsor-Springdale, made the announcement today.

�This is an extensive project with substantial economic benefits to local sectors of the housing industry,� said Minister Burke. �The continued investment in our social housing portfolio is indicative of government�s commitment to those most in need throughout the province.�

The work, which began in June 2005, is now finished and was completed by NLHC�s own seasonal modernization crew. The project covers a total of 20 units on Brown and Keats Avenue in Grand Falls-Windsor. The repairs included replacement of exterior doors, windows, eaves, roof sheathing and shingles.

�I�m pleased with the corporation�s commitment to maintenance and improvement work, and I�ve received positive feedback on work done to date,� said Mr. Hunter.

This project is part of NLHC�s long-term preventative maintenance plan, whereby each year the condition of all non-profit housing property is assessed and maintenance and modernization needs are determined. This process ensures the properties with the greatest maintenance requirements are addressed on a priority basis.

Media contact: Jenny Bowring, NLHC, (709) 724-3055

2005 09 20                               10:00 a.m.