Mr. Speaker, housing costs are a major component of the cost of living, which we all know is very high here in the Northwest Territories. Bringing these costs down is a priority. The Northwest Territories Housing Corporation will be putting out a housing engagement survey that will help us find out how we can design and deliver programs that better meet people’s housing needs.
The Northwest Territories Housing Corporation’s current strategic plan, Building for the Future, was created based on feedback received from residents. That feedback let us make changes to several of the Housing Corporation’s programs and activities in order to improve housing conditions in the Northwest Territories.
Although changes were made, people still have difficulty obtaining and retaining housing. As well, the Northwest Territories has a core need of 20 per cent compared to a national average of 13 per cent. This prompted a need to complete a thorough review of all policies and programs based on input from those using and providing the programs to ensure that they are meeting the needs of residents in an efficient, effective and appropriate manner.
Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation is conducting a survey entitled "Engagement on Strategic Action Renewal." This new survey will continue to build on previous positive changes by getting further public input. This engagement survey will help the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation deliver on the priorities of the 18th Legislative Assembly through a complete review of all policies and programs and a renewal of its strategic actions for the coming years.
Mr. Speaker, there are many families in Yellowknife who struggle to obtain and retain housing. Community visits throughout the North have provided the opportunity to listen to community and Aboriginal governments, as well as community members, regarding housing issues. Members have also raised housing concerns on behalf of their constituents. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs lists food, clothing and shelter as basic critical needs to people’s wellbeing. Housing is a critical component in people’s ability to thrive. In the Northwest Territories, safe housing is especially important in light of the remoteness of our communities, and our housing programs need to support people as they work towards self-reliance.
A recurring theme throughout the community tours has been people telling me about their housing issues, explaining that their situation is different than others. This reinforces the belief that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing housing issues in the Northwest Territories. Hearing from communities, including community organizations -- Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to finish my Minister's statement.
---Unanimous consent granted