Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate members of Faith in Action in Victoria for organizing one of 80 silent protests throughout B.C. last Saturday to raise awareness about the crisis of homelessness and inadequate housing in our country. They call for action by all levels of government.
Despite the urgent and critical problems of housing affordability, the 2008 federal budget was virtually silent about extending existing programs.
Churches and other organizations can play a role, but they do not have sufficient resources to solve this crisis. It is clear the marketplace will not house the poor either.
Only the federal government has the ability to make the policy changes to end homelessness and make affordable housing a reality across Canada.
Victoria residents call on the government to establish a national social housing policy in Canada.