Written by Donna Maye
The federal ninister responsible for housing in Canada has launched a public call for applications to serve on the country’s first National Housing Council.
The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, made the announcement in Ottawa on Tuesday.
Legislation establishing the council received Royal Assent on June 21. It is a key component of Canada’s new National Housing Strategy.
“Our government is looking forward to the creation of the National Housing Council, which will contribute to the success of the National Housing Strategy,” said Duclos.
The duties of the inaugural Council will be to provide advice to the minister on the effectiveness of the National Housing Strategy and how to improve housing outcomes. The council will also participate in the development of housing policy and contribute to the success of the National Housing Strategy.
“The council will help further recognize and advance the right to adequate housing and promote accountability, participation and inclusion in keeping with a human rights-based approach to housing,” said Duclos.
The council may also hold public hearings on systemic housing issues under federal responsibility.
The Minister is seeking applications from a broad cross-section of experts in housing and human rights, including leaders from the private sector. The council will be representative of Canada’s diversity.
Members will be appointed by the minister to hold office for up to three years. They will be paid for their work on the council, with remuneration to be determined by the minister.
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation will provide the administrative services and facilities to assist the National Housing Council to perform its duties and functions.
The public call for applications is open from August 20 to October 14, 2019.