Mr. Speaker, this government is contemplating raising to 30 per cent of income the rent geared to income in low cost and co-op housing, in order to save on social housing and apply these savings to reducing the federal deficit.
We recognize in this measure the unimaginative, heartless ways of the Liberals, and particularly their lack of vision. What this raise means, in real terms, is a 20 percent per year rent increase for the 110,000 Quebec families in social housing.
Given an average income of $10,000, these tenants will have to pay $500 more in annual rent, or $40 to $50 more per month.
Instead of going after the undue privileges of the rich-family trusts, tax loopholes and unpaid taxes-the federal government argues: let us make the poor pay.