Thank you, Mr. Chair. In regard to the committee report and review of 2008–2009 Draft
Main Estimates, on page 8 of 13, in regard to reduction to home ownership repairs, at the bottom of the page, the Members recognize that the corporation is committed to maintain retirement programs for seniors and persons with disabilities and support their efforts, but it recommends that the corporation make the reinstatement of the program a priority.
This motion basically is sending direction to the government that they have to realize that these programs are important to communities. They are important to a lot of people who have gotten into home ownership, especially for seniors. If you have any major repair, it’s going to be more than just a seniors Emergency Repair Program. You’re talking some major investment. I think that with the amount of $700,000, we’re not going to be able to do much by way of assisting individuals in home ownership.
With the motion I believe we’re instructing the government to take immediate action to reinstate the previous levels, which were in the $3 million range, and make every effort to reinstate that program as soon as possible. So, Mr. Chair, I will be moving the motion. Thank you.