MINISTERS RESPONSIBLE FOR HOUSING TO DISCUSS OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation Donna Harpauer and other federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for housing are meeting in Gatineau, Quebec on December 3 and 4 to discuss current and future investments in housing and homelessness.

"Saskatchewan has experienced significant economic growth which presents both opportunities and challenges for the people who live here," Harpauer said. "Affordable housing is a fundamental building block in securing the futures of all Saskatchewan citizens, so we look forward to working with the federal government to keep pace with housing demand and ensure various housing needs are met."

Over the next two years, more than $161 million will be invested by the federal/provincial governments for housing in Saskatchewan. Approximately $30 million will be allocated through the Affordable Housing Initiative and Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program extensions, and $131 million through the Canada Economic Action Plan (CEAP).

Priorities for discussion include future federal investments in affordable housing, repairs and homelessness beyond 2011 and implementation of housing investments through CEAP. The province also plans to advance three major objectives during the discussions:

• To advance the need for a multijurisdictional approach for housing policy, roles, program delivery and funding; 
• To work toward integration of housing programs (such as the Affordable Housing Initiative, Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program and Homelessness Partnering Strategy) to improve program delivery; and
• To discuss longer-term federal/provincial/territorial investment in housing to better meet the needs of vulnerable people and ensure housing sustainability.

"Putting vulnerable people first in this province is a top priority for our government," Harpauer said. "Saskatchewan representation at this meeting will help ensure that our views and priorities for future affordable housing policies, programs and funding will move forward."

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For more information, contact:

Linda Saliken
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0246