Premier John Horgan has issued the following statement to mark National Housing Day on Nov. 22, 2018:

“Every person deserves a safe place to call home. But years of inaction on the B.C. housing crisis has left too many people in B.C. unable to find affordable housing. Our government is making different choices and taking action to tackle supply, curb demand, and make housing more affordable and secure for people around the province.

“Our first budget as government included the largest investment in housing in B.C. history, with more than $7 billion going to communities over 10 years. Our 30-point plan to take action on the housing crisis will give people a break from skyrocketing housing costs around the province. It also means people can stay in their communities and be part of B.C.’s robust, sustainable economy.

“Last week our government made a historic announcement — 4,900 new, affordable mixed-income rental homes will be built in 42 communities throughout the province. This new housing is the first to be delivered through the Building BC: Community Housing Fund, a $1.9-billion investment over 10 years to deliver 14,000 affordable rental homes for seniors, families and low- and middle-income earners in B.C.

“Our Rapid Response to Homelessness program has already been put into action. By the end of 2019, we will have built more than 2,000 modular homes with 24/7 support services in 22 communities. So far, 600 modular homes have been built in four B.C. communities, helping people get out of tent cities and on the path to opportunity.

“We’ve started 12 projects that will provide 280 safe new homes for women and children fleeing violence and abuse. And for the first time in Canadian history, a province has taken steps, together with Indigenous leaders, to directly address the housing needs of Indigenous peoples, both on and off reserve.

“Our Housing Hub has already approved hundreds of affordable market rentals, which are being built through partnerships with the private sector, faith groups, non-profits and communities. And as part of increasing affordable rental supply in the private market, we gave communities the power to zone for rental housing, giving them the opportunity to decrease speculative pressure on land while opening the door to increased density.

“People need an opportunity to survive, thrive and get ahead. That starts with knowing you and your family have a place to come home to. On National Housing Day, we commit to keep working collaboratively across the aisle and with local partners to deliver safe, secure and affordable housing for people in B.C.”