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

Social Housing Renovations Underway for Gander and Appleton

Social housing units in Gander and Appleton will undergo $155,000 in renovations, as the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation continues its annual modernization and improvement program.

“We are achieving great results as we continue upgrading our provincial rental housing portfolio,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “The work we are completing around the province will greatly enhance the long-term availability and quality of these affordable homes.”

In Gander, R & D Construction Ltd. has been awarded a contract valued at $72,000 to install new siding, windows and doors on 10 units on Bennett Drive, Brown Crescent, and Heath Crescent. As well, a contract valued at $83,000 has been awarded to J.I. Pritchett & Sons. This contract will see the replacement of roofs on 16 units on Bennett Drive as well as the replacement of windows and doors on two units in Appleton.

“Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is doing tremendous work upgrading and maintaining social housing throughout the province, and advancing the goals of our government’s social housing plan,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs and MHA for Gander. “I am especially pleased with the great renovation work in the Gander area that will enhance these properties for years to come.”

A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador - Secure Foundations, released by the Provincial Government in August 2009, outlines a long-term vision for social housing. It is aimed at improving the housing circumstances of low-income households and helping create healthier communities. Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador allocated $25.9 million for social housing infrastructure, including $10.4 million for maintenance and $12 million for renovations and improvements.

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is the province’s largest landlord with approximately 5,573 non-profit social housing dwellings province-wide.

- 30 -

Media contacts:

2011 12 15              9:50 a.m.