The Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister of Transportation and Works and Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, today announced the official opening of 10 new affordable units for low-income seniors in Paradise.

"I am pleased to announce the Williams Government's support for this new complex," said Minister Hedderson. "This important investment, in partnership with the private-sector developer, is another example of our commitment to meet the needs of our province's low-income seniors."

Karwood Contracting Ltd. recently completed the mixed-residency complex on Cormorant Place, thanks to a $350,000 Provincial Government investment through the Housing Trust Funds toward the cost of 10 of the 16 units for low-income seniors. The units are contained in a two-storey apartment complex. Two of the 10 two-bedroom units that were funded by the Provincial Government are fully accessible.

"I would like to thank the Provincial Government and Newfoundland Labrador Housing for their significant contribution toward this $2.6-million facility," said Greg Hussey, President of Karwood Contracting Ltd. "This project will help this vibrant community better serve its seniors who live on fixed incomes and are in need of safe and comfortable housing that is within their financial means."

This work is in keeping with the goals of the Williams Government's Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador — Secure Foundations, which outlines a new long-term vision for social housing aimed at improving the housing circumstances of lower-income households and helping to create healthier communities. As part of Budget 2010: The Right Investments — For Our Children and Our Future , the Provincial Government is investing $27 million for housing infrastructure projects, affordable housing and increased maintenance funding over the coming fiscal year.

- 30 -

Media contacts: