The urgency of on-reserve housing needs is the focus of a new government study.
The Senate Aboriginal Committee was in Thunder Bay today to hear, for the first time, from northern Ontario’s First Nations communities.
Senator Denis Patterson says there is a tremendous need for quality housing, related infrastructure and financing.
Patterson says First Nations are challenged in developing capacity to deal with the challenge in the complex area of housing, building codes system management and financial management.
Patterson adds that while the report can’t guarantee an outcome, the Committee’s recomendations are usually implemented by government.
Housing Manager for Constance Lake First Nation, Charles Baxter Sr. says overcrowding is a major concern on-reserve – about 500 people are waiting for homes.
Baxter says he hopes his testomony to the Senate will help Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada recognize the financial restraints felt by First Nations.
An interim report is expected in December
