Tab A: Opening Remarks

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Opening remarks for Kelly Gillis Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Communities at the HUMA Committee

Ottawa, ON
October 30, 2023

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for welcoming me today.

I'd like to begin by acknowledging that we are on the traditional unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg people.

Since Infrastructure Canada began supporting the Government of Canada's housing and homelessness agenda back in 2021, we've worked hand in hand with CMHC to give more people in Canada an affordable place to call home.

Infrastructure Canada is taking a key role in federal housing policy, in partnership with CMHC. This strengthened partnership reflects a whole-of-government approach that the federal government is taking to address housing and homelessness.

Because we understand that investments in housing, public transit, water infrastructure, community centres, and parks, are all interconnected, and that they are essential to building communities that are livable, connected, and affordable.

Communities where people not only can afford their homes and lead comfortable lives, but also enjoy easy access to essential programs and services and effective connections to places like work and school.

But, we also recognize that the housing environment has changed drastically in recent years. A severe housing shortage, inflation, and rising interest rates have created a situation where middle-class Canadians are struggling with affordability.

We are already working closely with CMHC as we take the actions needed to help address this crisis. We're grateful to have their expertise by our side as we continue to take on an increased role in federal housing policy, and strengthen this government's capacity to deliver on a housing and homelessness agenda that can benefit everyone in Canada.

Furthermore, Infrastructure Canada leads on supporting the most vulnerable Canadians through Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy. This program, as part of the National Housing Strategy, is helping those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless to access support services and safe, stable housing.

Reaching Home is investing almost $4 billion to address this challenge. Through the Strategy, we're working with our partners to reduce chronic homelessness in Canada and ultimately eliminate it, helping our most vulnerable neighbours access the safe and affordable homes they deserve.

When we take an approach that considers housing and infrastructure needs together, we can better address local needs while achieving shared results.

Tackling housing and affordability will take a whole-of-government approach and more investment from all levels of government and the private sector.

To catalyze this change, the federal government is taking action by offering programs and financing solutions that make housing and life more affordable for Canadians.

When we invest in housing and community infrastructure, we're creating stronger communities and investing in the well-being of Canadians today, and for generations to come.

We're committed to working with our partners to ensure that our programs meet the needs of Canadians from coast to coast to coast, and your voice is an important part of those efforts.

Thank you.

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