moved for leave to introduce Bill C-265, An Act to ensure secure, adequate, accessible, and affordable housing for Canadians.
Mr. Speaker, this time I would like to thank my colleague from North Island—Powell River, who is seconding this important bill.
The bill calls on the government to develop a national housing strategy. Canada is the only G8 country that does not have one.
The current government talks about a strategy, but the process to implement such a strategy is crucial. It is not enough to simply consult the provinces, territories, municipalities, aboriginal communities, and housing groups. It is too easy to consult them, but then completely ignore the recommendations that are not to the government's liking.
Instead, the government must work in partnership with all stakeholders to reach a satisfactory agreement that is flexible enough to meet the varied needs of our distinct regions.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)