Speaking Notes for

Mr. David Batters, Member of Parliament for Palliser

On behalf of

The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development

Grand Opening of Wakamow Place

100 Block, River Street
Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

June 26, 2006
10:00 a.m.

Check against delivery

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Bonjour.

I am pleased to join you on behalf of my colleague, the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development — and the Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Today, we celebrate the grand opening of Wakamow Place. I always enjoy the opportunity to take part in celebrations like this one, especially when it's here in my own riding.

Canada's new government is pleased to be working in close cooperation with the Province of Saskatchewan to provide federal funding of $440,000 under phase one of the Canada – Saskatchewan Affordable Housing Program Agreement.

In addition, this project has also received more than $540,000 through the Regional Homelessness Fund, a component of the Government of Canada's National Homelessness Initiative.

The strength of Canada is the strength of our communities. That's why the federal government continues support projects like Wakamow Place which provide safe and supportive atmospheres in which to flourish.

Today marks an important step forward for the people of Moose Jaw and demonstrates what we can achieve when we work together.

Through CMHC, Canada's national housing agency for more than 60 years, our government provides approximately $2 billion a year in housing assistance. This primarily supports some 633,000 lower-income households. For the people of Saskatchewan, this represents a total of about $152 million per year in support of about 35,000 lower-income households.

My government also believes that all Canadians should have a fair chance to own or rent their own home. That's why our 2006 federal Budget provided a one-time strategic investment of $1.4 billion in new housing trust funds for provinces and territories to invest in affordable housing.

When it comes to building communities and the housing within them, it takes the efforts of many to achieve success. It takes partnerships at all levels of government, involving all sectors, as well as creative and innovative people with a vision.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those involved in this project, especially the Moose Jaw Non-Profit Housing Association. I applaud your efforts and wish you all the best.

Thank you for joining us today. Merci.