Thank you, Mr. Chair, for welcoming me here today.
I'd like begin by acknowledging that we are here on the traditional unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinabe people.
Infrastructure Canada began supporting the Government of Canada's housing and homelessness agenda in November 2021.
Infrastructure Canada is taking a key role in federal housing policy, in partnership with CMHC. This strengthened partnership reflects a whole-of-government approach that the federal government is taking to address housing and homelessness.
We understand that investments in housing, public transit, water infrastructure, community centres and other public infrastructure are all interconnected and that they are essential to building communities that are livable and affordable, communities where people can not only afford their homes and lead comfortable lives but also enjoy easy access to essential programs and services and effective public transit to take them places for work and school.
But, we also recognize that the housing environment has changed drastically in recent years. A severe housing shortage, inflation, and rising interest rates have created a situation where middle-class Canadians are struggling with affordability.
We are already working very closely with CMHC as we take on additional actions to help address this crisis. We're grateful to have their expertise by our side as we continue to take an increased role in the federal housing policy and to strengthen this government's capacity to deliver on a housing and homelessness agenda that can benefit everyone in Canada.
Furthermore, Infrastructure Canada leads on supporting the most vulnerable Canadians through Reaching Home, Canada's homelessness strategy. This program, as part of the national housing strategy, is helping those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless to accept support services and safe and stable housing.
Reaching Home is investing almost $4 billion to address this challenge. Through the strategy, we’re working with our partners to reduce chronic homelessness in Canada and ultimately eliminate it, helping our most vulnerable neighbours access the safe and affordable homes they deserve.
When we take an approach that considers housing and infrastructure needs together, we can better address local needs while achieving shared results.
Tackling housing and affordability will take a whole-of-government approach and more investment from all levels of government and the private sector.
To catalyze this change, the federal government is taking action by offering programs and financing solutions that make housing and life more affordable for Canadians. While we invest in housing and community infrastructure, we're creating stronger communities and investing for the well-being of Canadians today and for generations to come.
I had the privilege of coming here a few weeks ago with Minister Fraser when he talked about a six-point plan and needing to do more and was seeking the committee's advice, and I look forward to the discussion here today.
Thank you very much.