Addressing housing crisis a top priority

Fort Garry

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 06/12/2023 (651 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Thank you to the residents of Fort Garry for electing me, once again, to be your voice in the Legislative Assembly. Representing your interests and advocating on your behalf is a great privilege.

During my campaign, I had the pleasure of speaking with you, the people of Fort Garry. The biggest concern I heard on the doorstep was affordable housing. Manitobans deserve to live dignified lives and have the ability to provide for their basic needs, which is why the housing crisis is of particular concern.

Manitoba has the second fastest-growing rents in the country. Young people can’t afford mortgages or down payments, and our elderly cannot relocate into homes that best fit their needs due to the lack of affordable alternatives. Accessible housing opportunities in the community for people living with disabilities are limited, and international students are faced with student housing price surges that force them into uncomfortable or unsafe living conditions. The current market is not building affordable starter homes, and rent prices are quickly rising. Life has become unaffordable, and families are paying the cost.

Manitoba is being faced with a housing crisis, and to solve this crisis, we need stronger rent control, more non-profit affordable housing and collaboration between all levels of government. This alarming issue is of top priority as I continue to hear the stories of fear, anger and disappointment in the previous government’s inaction. No matter your circumstances, you deserve a place to call home. I will continue to advocate tirelessly to ensure you get the support you need. This starts with creating a comprehensive strategy to address Manitoba’s housing crisis, which I am dedicated to ensuring happens. It is one of the many steps this new government must take to make sure life gets better together.

If you want to contact me, you can reach my office anytime, at 202-1383 Pembina Hwy. You can also reach out via email mark.wasyliw@yourmanitoba.ca or by phone 204-421-4241.