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

More Social Housing Renovations for Central Communities

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation has awarded contracts valued at $74,000 for renovations on five social housing properties in central Newfoundland.

“Renovating social housing throughout the province is an ongoing commitment and we are achieving great success,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “To date, we have renovated more than half of our units and each modernization and improvement project greatly enhances the quality of the properties and extends their availability.”

A contract valued at $43,000 was awarded to R.B.S. Technical Services Ltd. to replace windows, doors and shingles on one unit in Shoal Harbour, and to carry out repairs on two vacant units in Clarenville.

“I am delighted with the work taking place in Clarenville and Shoal Harbour,” said the Honourable Ross Wiseman, Speaker of the House of Assembly and MHA for Trinity North. “Each and every upgrade carried out by Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation makes a positive difference in the lives of tenants.”

East-Glo Electric Ltd. was awarded a contract valued at $13,000 to replace shingles, eaves and windows on one unit in Glovertown.

“Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is doing a great job of renovating its social housing portfolio in this part of the province,” said Sandy Collins, MHA for Terra Nova. “Around Newfoundland and Labrador, these repairs will increase the longevity of units and help make these homes more comfortable for tenants.”

This work will be completed by early January 2012.

Foundation repairs have been completed on one unit in Noggin Cove. Bruce Lemieux completed the contract valued at $18,000.

“The work on this property in Noggin Cove will ensure it remains in good repair for years to come,” said Eli Cross, MHA for Bonavista North. “Each renovation and repair made through the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation’s modernization and improvement program, makes a positive difference in communities throughout our province.”

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.

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2011 12 30                               10:50 a.m.