It's a really great question, and I think it is the multi-billion dollar question.
Through my work as a federal housing advocate, I focus a lot of our files on different geographic regions so we can build relationships with the provincial governments to have these conversations.
Through the bilateral agreements, the provinces did agree to the principle of the human right to housing. There was something in the Globe, I think, on the provinces being asked what they felt about the human right to housing. A lot didn't understand what that meant, or they were worried it would result in their being sued. However, it meant they're investing in outcomes for people, and anyone who gets involved in government and in politics has that at the heart of their intentions. They want to see real change for the people they serve.
It's about having these discussions in a way that doesn't end up with there being turf wars. On the other hand, with the federal government's being involved at this level for the first time in a very long time, there need to be strings attached.
It is about building these fences and having coordination. My call to have a comprehensive encampments response plan by August 31 is an example of getting all the players at the table and having a coordinated approach rather than a piecemeal one or one behind another. I understand why provinces sometimes come out being very upset. It's not just about a turf war, but it is about proper consultation.
Every region is different. I come from the land of libertarians. I grew up in Alberta. The politics there are very different. If I talk about having meaningful relationships with people with lived experience to get to real solutions, the meaningful relationships need to exist across the board. That means between me and you, as government. It also means among all levels of government as well.