Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Minister noted his intention to continue to work closely with the Advisory Committee on Social Housing. In the standing committee's view, the advisory committee is not working effectively. Meetings are rarely called and advice is not sought from the Members. Members find this disturbing, particularly, given the current crisis situation in meeting housing needs. The Standing Committee on Finance would like to see the terms of reference for the Advisory Committee reviewed, with a view to either strengthening or dissolving this group.

The committee acknowledges the corporations' work in developing a variety of housing programs including: access to home ownership; rent supplement; senior citizen's home repair; and, home owner improvement. However, the committee encourages the corporation to continue to explore alternative means of providing housing that is cost-effective and meets the needs of the communities.

Committee Members noted that there is confusion about the corporation's programs in the communities. The confusion results from the fact that there is both an access program and an access housing unit. The committee suggests that the corporation review this situation and take whatever action is required to eliminate this confusion.

Members feel that various regions and communities should have some flexibility in accessing government support housing. This could be accomplished through some type of "block funding arrangement." The added benefit of this type of arrangement would be that the decisions could be made at the community level. The committee is impressed with the "build and learn" strategy being implemented by the corporation.

That's the standing committee's response to the Housing Corporation, Mr. Chairman. Thank you.