Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I would like to speak today on the changes coming. I believe the changes coming are to the detriment of our elders, disabled, and single parents, and people who live on fixed income.
Mr. Speaker, I am talking about the harmonization of income assistance and public housing.
Mr. Speaker, I have a real problem with the way this program is being delivered and being imposed on people without really understanding what the implications this program will have on our elders and our seniors who presently live on a fixed income by way of a pension, or a disabled person who may be in a housing unit who may have a disabled pension because of their disability. The same thing applies to senior mothers with children who may be on part-time employment and who may not meet the required needs that they presently try to offer to and exist on. In most cases, people are struggling out there to maintain the pensions that they get, the disabled pensions, and the income that single mothers get to raise a family and also try to find a job.
Mr. Speaker, I believe the timing of the implementation of this program, April 1st, is being rushed. I feel that it is unjust to not ensure that all bases are being covered and that an evaluation process is in place so that clients understand that they have a right to appeal. There is a Tenants Act which ensures that notification is given before any increases or any rates are put in place. What happens to those people who do not meet the requirements of the new amendments made with regard to incomes? Where do those people go in the communities that do not have housing available? Right now, the vacancy rates in most communities are at zero. People are on a waiting list of 70 to 80 people, yet they are overcrowded in houses where they have, in some cases, up to eight people living in one dwelling. Where do those people go?
Mr. Speaker, I will be asking the Minister questions because I have a real problem with the changes taking place and being imposed on the people most at need. Thank you.
-- Applause