The following statement was issued today by Paul Shelley, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment and Minister Responsible for Housing. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I rise today to inform my colleagues that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has signed Phase 2 of the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Affordable Housing Agreement.

This agreement will see an additional $10.62 million provided to increase the supply of affordable housing for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. This includes a spending commitment of $5.3 million from the provincial government.

Funding will be used to encourage the production of new and affordable rental housing for low-income seniors. As well, it will provide more supportive rental housing for persons with mental, developmental, or physical health needs who require supports to live independently.

A minimum of 140 new units will be created with a maximum funding level of $75,000 per unit. Rental rates will be set at a level that will be affordable for low-income households eligible for social housing.

As well, recent flexibilities negotiated under Phase 1 will now allow the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation to improve social housing that is severely deteriorated.

We anticipate that by the year 2010, approximately 700 affordable housing units will have been created or repaired under Phase 1 and 2 of this agreement.

Whether it is promoting the Raising the Roof�s annual toque campaign, or partnering with the federal government by investing over $10 million in affordable housing, we are working together to provide affordable housing to people who need it most.

2005 11 28                      1:55 p.m.