Transportation and Works
November 2, 2012

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

Roof Replacements Underway on St. John’s Social Housing

Roof replacements that will help enhance energy efficiency are underway on 18 social housing units in St. John’s, as Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation continues its annual Modernization and Improvement Program.

“Over the last five years, our government has invested significantly in upgrading existing social housing and I am pleased with the progress made in communities across the province,” said the Honourable Paul Davis, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “As we continue annual renovations, we strive to improve energy efficiency of the properties, so they can continue to be comfortable homes that meet the needs of tenants.”

G.S. Hunt Ltd. was awarded the contract valued at $117,000 to complete the work on the homes located on Wigmore Court and Livingstone Street in St. John’s. The project is expected to be completed in December.

These types of building renovations support the commitments in the Provincial Government’s action plans focused on climate change and energy efficiency, Charting Our Course: Climate Change Action Plan 2011, and Moving Forward: Energy Efficiency Action Plan 2011.

A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador - Secure Foundations, released by the Provincial Government in August 2009, outlines a 10-year vision for social housing. It is aimed at improving the housing circumstances of low-income households and helping create healthier communities. Budget 2012: People and Prosperity 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:

2012 11 02                         11:20 a.m.