PROVINCE ANNOUNCES TASK FORCE ON HOUSING AFFORDABILITY

"Saskatchewan needs new ideas to ensure housing affordability keeps pace with the province's current economic momentum," Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer said today as the provincial government announced the creation of a two-person Task Force on Housing Affordability.

The Task Force on Housing Affordability comprised of former Saskatoon Northwest MLA Ted Merriman and former NDP Social Services Minister and current Saskatoon City Councilor Bob Pringle, will meet with stakeholders in a number of Saskatchewan cities to gather input and provide recommendations to the provincial government on policies to encourage greater housing affordability.

"Saskatchewan people are continuing to see the benefit of the province's economic momentum," Harpauer said. "At the same time, we are aware that rapidly increasing housing costs have reduced housing affordability in our major centres. Our government is committed to making sure Saskatchewan is ready for growth and that we avoid the problems experienced in provinces like Alberta, where rapid growth has made it difficult for many individuals and families to secure affordable housing."

The Task Force on Housing Affordability will focus on three areas:

• Improving housing affordability and security for those least able to afford rising housing costs; 
• Increasing capacity in the housing system to encourage the creation of affordable housing; and 
• Examining how best to facilitate the long term monitoring, policy development and provision of affordable housing in Saskatchewan.

Harpauer said Pringle and Merriman were chosen for the task force because of their experience as community leaders and understanding of the challenges faced by low-income individuals and families.

"Ted Merriman and Bob Pringle have worked for many years both inside and outside the Legislature to improve the lives of low-income individuals and families," Harpauer said. "They are also community leaders with an understanding that all stakeholders in this issue - including community based organizations, municipal government, builders and housing developers - have a role to play in ensuring we maintain housing affordability and increase the supply of affordable housing in our cities and communities."

The Task Force on Housing Affordability will report its recommendations to the Minister of Social Services by May 30, 2008.

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For more information, contact:

Kathy Young
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0425
Email: kathy.young@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-526-8927