Jennifer McKelvie
Ajax, Ontario · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, I would like to share the good news that the build Canada homes act, Bill C-20 , has just passed the Senate. This is another great initiative we have under way to bring down the cost of housing and, in particular, rent.”
“Mr. Speaker, there is some good news. I would like to point out that housing starts are 3% higher than in the same period last year. Completions have increased by 10%, meaning more homes are being finished. We are seeing growth in places like B.C., Ontario and Montreal. New construction is up by about 18%.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to start by thanking all our partners in housing, the municipalities, provinces, indigenous communities, planners, builders and everybody else who is working together, because the trends are indeed moving in the right direction. Housing starts are up, housing sales are up, and rents are down.”
“These federal funds would be transferred to provinces and territories to be used exclusively for measures that increase housing supply, including but not limited to reducing development fees or levies on new home construction and making incremental investments in provincial and territorial programming already in place to spur housing deve…”
“A tangible example of this is a recent agreement with the Province of Ontario that reflects our commitment to help municipalities reduce development charges by 30% to 50% or more. These types of costs directly affect whether housing projects move forward.”
“In response, our government remains focused on solutions and on doing the hard work to support our communities, our industries and Canadians. The current government was elected on a strong mandate to build, and a key area of focus for the Prime Minister and our whole caucus is easing the housing crisis.”
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“Madam Speaker, in a rapidly changing world, the government is focused on what we can control, which is building a stronger economy to make life more affordable for Canadians. Many Canadians continue to face affordability pressures as the cost of essential goods, housing and everyday expenses remain high. That is why the government has also taken action to help Canadians with daily expenses. For example, starting April 20, the federal fuel excise tax on gasoline and diesel, across Canada, will be suspended until Labour Day. This reduces gas station fill-ups by 10¢ per litre on regular gasoline and four cents on diesel. This will help Canadian drivers and reduce operating costs for truckers and businesses in the food, agriculture, housing, construction and delivery sectors.”
“Madam Speaker, we know affordability is the single most pressing issue for many Canadians. The government is committed to developing a national food security strategy. This strategy would make it easier for Canadians to access affordable and nutritious food, and build on Canada's resilience and capacity to meet domestic needs. From the beginning, we have placed people and affordability at the centre of our economic plan because we know the pressures are real and demand immediate action. We believe in a Canada for all.”
“This 40-basis points reduction to the CPP contribution rate would translate into annual savings of up to $133 for an employee earning $70,000 a year, with equivalent savings for their employer. The change would do this while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the CPP. As members can see, our government is moving swiftly to improve affordability. We have already accomplished so much, and these are only the latest examples of how we are working hard to lift some of the barriers off Canadians.”
“The proposed extension is from two years to five years. This change would deliver cash flow relief of up to $4,000 per individual per year over three years, during which time they would not be required to repay the amount into their RRSP. There is more in Bill C-30 . The legislation proposes an important change to the Canada pension plan to ensure Canadians keep more of their money in their bank accounts. The CPP is the cornerstone of Canada's retirement income system, providing stable and predictable pension income to millions of Canadians. To help address affordability pressures faced by so many households, Canada's ministers of finance unanimously agreed in April to reduce the contribution rate for the CPP. The change would lower the contribution rate in the base CPP from 9.9% to 9.5%, effectively January 1, 2027.”
“The strategy would make it easier for Canadians to access affordable and nutritious food and build Canada's resilience and capacity to meet domestic needs. Bill C-30 would amend the Canadian Food Inspection Agency Act and the Pest Control Products Act to include the consideration of food security and the cost of food. Bill C-30 also promises to help address housing affordability concerns. It is clear: The high cost of housing is putting significant pressure on household budgets, especially for younger Canadians. Our government recognizes that many Canadians who have recently purchased their first home or are planning to do so could benefit from a boost to their cash flow. That is why Bill C-30 proposes extending the grace period during which homebuyers are not required to start repaying their homebuyers' plan withdrawals from their RRSPs.”
“Let us begin with the rising cost of food, which is a major concern for Canadians. On June 5, more than 12 million Canadians will receive additional support through the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. The spring economic update, via Bill C-30 , is proposing additional measures to support Canadians even more as they deal with the financial squeeze of food bills. The passage of Bill C-30 would help growers supercharge domestic food production in Canada with tax changes that would allow the immediate expensing of greenhouse buildings. The measure is projected to provide $41 million of tax relief over six years. The government is also committed to developing a national food security strategy.”
“Madam Speaker, our government is relentless in its efforts to make life more affordable for Canadians. Many hard-working Canadians continue to face affordability pressures as the cost of essential goods, housing and everyday expenses remains high. This is why our actions have been focused on ensuring Canadians keep more of their hard-earned money in their pockets. The spring economic update, “Canada Strong for All”, which our government delivered on April 28, includes the next steps toward meeting our objective of building a stronger, more resilient and more affordable country. We recently introduced Bill C-30 , an act to implement certain provisions of the spring economic update tabled in Parliament on April 28. It is a key piece of legislation to help ease the sting of higher prices.”
“This includes leveraging infrastructure investments to reduce development charges. We are making it faster and easier for builders to get projects off the ground, including in British Columbia. Together with other levels of government and our partners across the housing sector, we are building homes, creating jobs and growing our economy.”
“Madam Speaker, the Build Canada Homes portal is open and we are encouraging all applicants with shovel-ready projects to submit and to apply. We are looking for projects from coast to coast to coast, including in British Columbia. The Government of Canada is taking a bold new approach and making unprecedented investments in order to increase housing supply across Canada. This includes both affordable housing and supportive housing. Through Build Canada Homes and the build communities strong fund, along with other innovative initiatives, we are making progress on key housing and infrastructure projects. The federal government is working in partnership with provinces, territories and municipalities, as well as indigenous partners, to remove local barriers that would slow new supply.”
“The Government of Canada is committed to solving the housing crisis and taking a leadership role on housing. We are doing so by removing barriers to construction, reducing risk for home builders and making significant investments in affordable housing. By working closely with builders, we will implement innovative solutions to get the job done. The Government of Canada will continue to work with our partners to build at an unprecedented speed and scale, from Whitehorse to St. John's and from Grise Fiord to Windsor. These are investments not just in housing, but in people, families and neighbourhoods. Together, we will build homes for Canadians, and we will build Canada strong.”
“It will provide $51 billion over 10 years, starting in 2026-27, and $3 billion per year ongoing to support new and renewed public infrastructure. The build communities strong fund will invest in a wide range of infrastructure projects that support economic prosperity, housing, education, health, transit and climate adaptation. In partnership with provinces and territories, this investment will also be leveraged to reduce development charges in jurisdictions where these fees are the highest. This will help to lower the cost of housing construction and get more homes built. A series of 13 projects have been announced so far under the build communities strong fund, furthering public infrastructure projects and priorities across the country.”
“This is also why the Prime Minister launched Build Canada Homes in September 2025, in order to build affordable homes at scale. This new federal agency leverages public lands, offers flexible financial incentives, attracts private capital and facilitates large portfolio projects. It supports modern manufacturers to build the homes that Canadians need. We are not doing it alone. The Government of Canada is leveraging its partnerships to get homes built. Provincial, territorial and municipal governments, indigenous partners, and stakeholders across the ecosystem are stepping up at all levels to get shovels in the ground. We are working together to build the homes that Canada needs. On April 7, 2026, the Prime Minister also launched the build communities strong fund.”
“Madam Speaker, the Government of Canada is committed to building homes across the country: smarter, faster, more affordably and at a pace not seen in generations. We are also investing in the essential infrastructure that is needed to support new home construction and strengthen communities. Through budget 2025, we are making generational investments of $25 billion over five years for housing and $115 billion over five years for infrastructure. These strategic investments empower Canadians to get ahead and create lasting prosperity. The federal government is growing Canada's economy by catalyzing a modern, innovative and more productive homebuilding industry. We are bolstering local economies by creating more jobs right here at home, employing Canadian workers and building with Canadian materials.”
“Mr. Speaker, our government has been very committed to youth employment. We have Build Canada Homes, which has an initial capitalization of $13 billion, and that will create jobs in the trades. More recently, there is the $51 billion to build infrastructure across this country, which will build upon the work we are doing at the Major Projects Office, including in my home of Durham, where the Darlington small modular reactors will employ many youth. Could the member speak to Canada summer jobs? Just this week, we launched it. The portals are open and applications can come in. This is a very good opportunity for youth, to get them working in communities. In my home community of Ajax, we have 368 jobs across 74 organizations, as part of creating these different opportunities across many different sectors.”
“Mr. Speaker, I was just wondering if the member maybe could share the importance of partnerships and building partnerships with municipalities, with provinces, with the non-profit sector and with indigenous communities, and comment on the fact that this really is a whole-of-government approach. We need all hands on deck if we want to build the housing Canadians need right now. In particular, I would like to point out that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities is very happy with this Build Canada Homes announcement. In fact, it has said: [It] welcomes the federal government’s Build Canada Homes...initiative as a strong signal of leadership on the housing crisis. This announcement shows a clear commitment to working in partnership with municipalities—as well as provinces and territories, Indigenous governments, housing providers....”
“Mr. Speaker, that project involves clean energy, the creation of local jobs and economic growth. It was approved by the Canada Infrastructure Bank through an arms-length process led by non-partisan public servants. Even the Progressive Conservative government in Nova Scotia supports the project. It is easy to see why. It will create hundreds of good jobs for Nova Scotians, strengthen local communities and help build—”
“Mr. Speaker, Canadians want action, not political games, and that is what our government is delivering. We are creating hundreds of local jobs, supporting communities and building energy projects and infrastructure projects from coast to coast to coast that power homes and grow our economy. The Conservatives opposite can keep talking on that side of the House, but we are about action.”
“Mr. Speaker, we are creating high-paying jobs for young people with our investments in housing. Build Canada Homes will invest $13 billion in housing. It will catalyze new methods of construction, new jobs in factories, new jobs from coast to coast to coast, using Canadian materials, Canadian steel and Canadian lumber. Yes, that is trees to keys. It will get our youth working, and then they can live in those homes.”
“Mr. Speaker, budget 2025 includes generational investments in housing and infrastructure that will accelerate housing construction and grow Canada's economy. We are taking the next step forward with the introduction of Bill C-20 , the Build Canada Homes act. Now is the time to build upon the progress being made by Build Canada Homes and get homes built for Canadians across the country. Build Canada Homes will partner across the housing ecosystem to drive the development of affordable housing. It will support a mix of income needs and catalyze a more productive housing sector. This is part of our national effort to increase housing construction, restore affordability and reduce homelessness. The government is focused on building more affordable housing while creating jobs and growing our economy at the same time.”
“This will lead to thousands of affordable housing units being built and brings the total federal investment in the fund to approximately $16 billion. Additionally, to help new homebuyers enter the market, we are delivering savings of up to $50,000 for first-time homebuyers by cutting the GST on new homes at or under $1 million and lowering the GST on new homes between $1 million and $1.5 million. The federal government, through a wide range of measures, is restoring affordability, expanding housing options and ensuring that every Canadian has a place to call home.”
“This includes non-profits, co-operatives, community housing providers and organizations that support a variety of housing options for Canadians. It will also work with provinces, territories, municipalities and indigenous governments to help fight homelessness by building supportive and transitional housing. Through Build Canada Homes investments, federal governments and provincial and territorial governments are partnering to deliver affordable homes to Canadians. The Government of Canada has also made significant investments in affordable housing through programs like the affordable housing fund. As of September 2025, over 54,000 new units have been committed through the affordable housing fund. The Government of Canada has also provided an additional $1.5 billion in loans to the affordable housing fund's new construction stream.”
“By leveraging public lands, deploying flexible financial tools and acting as a catalyst for modern methods of construction, Build Canada Homes is driving a more productive and innovative homebuilding sector. On February 5, Bill C-20 , the Build Canada Homes act, was introduced in Parliament. This legislation, if passed, will establish Build Canada Homes as a Crown corporation dedicated to building affordable homes in communities across the country. Build Canada Homes is accelerating delivery of the housing Canadians need, faster, smarter and more affordable. This new agency is working in partnership with non-profits, indigenous organizations, private developers and all orders of government. Build Canada Homes will partner with builders and housing providers that are focused on long-term affordability.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada's housing system is facing complex problems that require targeted solutions. Far too many Canadians, especially younger generations, are struggling to find homes they can afford. Housing costs continue to rise, while supply is not keeping pace with growing demand. In response, the Government of Canada is taking immediate action. Budget 2025 is making generational investments of $25 billion over five years for housing and $115 billion over five years for infrastructure. These strategic investments will build major infrastructure and homes and create lasting prosperity, empowering Canadians to get ahead. That is also why the Government of Canada has launched Build Canada Homes. Build Canada Homes is Canada's new federal agency with the mandate to scale up the supply of affordable housing across Canada.”
“Mr. Speaker, Conservatives claim they care about young people, yet they voted against the national housing strategy. They voted against the home savings account. They voted against expanding mortgage criteria. They are voting against the GST cut. They are voting against Bill C-227 to establish a national strategy for housing for young Canadians. A vote against these measures is a vote against young Canadians.”
“Mr. Speaker, our government cares deeply about affordability for young Canadians. That is why we have the first-time homebuyer GST relief before the House. It is also why we are improving the cost of housing. We are bringing it down by investing in housing-enabling infrastructure and by investing in modern methods of construction. Importantly, this is going to create good-paying, highly trained, skilled jobs for young Canadians. We are going to build careers, and we are going to build homes.”
“Madam Speaker, I am wondering if the member could speak to the importance of partnership. Dunn House is a beautiful example of partnership, with different governments and agencies coming together. We heard comments earlier from the opposition that talked about overriding the rights and responsibilities of municipalities. I am wondering if the member can speak to the importance of partnership.”
“Madam Speaker, we are very much committed to transitional and supportive housing. There is a $1-billion allocation through Build Canada Homes in that regard. We look forward to partners bringing forward land. We will bring forward capital, and we need to rely on the provinces for that much-needed operational support.”
“Madam Speaker, establishing Build Canada Homes as a Crown corporation provides the legal and operational flexibility and autonomy needed to deliver on its mandate while maintaining a clear accountability framework to government. It allows Build Canada Homes to hold assets independently, to invest and to engage in complex financial transactions. Build Canada Homes is designed to do more than just fund individual projects; it is a new way of doing business. Its goal is to unlock opportunities across the country by partnering with the market to identify and develop high-impact housing solutions.”
“Madam Speaker, I am delighted to speak to my previous role as deputy mayor in the city of Toronto. Working alongside partners, we passed an ambitious plan for affordable housing in the city of Toronto. We also passed rules to allow multiplexes across the city and multitenant homes. We cut down on red tape. We improved zoning so that it made it easier to build. We also transformed the way we do processes so permits and approvals can be done faster. We have shown what can be possible. We are rolling that out in agreements from municipality to municipality from coast to coast to coast, and I look forward to working with all our municipal partners in that regard.”
“For supportive housing, municipal partners can bring forward the land, we can bring forward the capital and the provinces can bring forward that important operational funding.”
“Madam Speaker, importantly, we realize that municipalities are our partners and that we need to work together to advance housing in municipalities from coast to coast to coast. We have exciting partnerships under way, including right here in Ottawa. Canada's new government has secured a new partnership with the City of Ottawa to build 3,000 mixed income and affordable housing units across the city beginning this year. We have innovative partnerships under way with Nova Scotia and with Quebec. We are working from coast to coast to coast to find those partners that are committed to building housing at a pace and scale that has never been seen before. I will give an example of how it can be done.”
“This structure would also enable Build Canada Homes to enter into partnerships that would expand housing supply. This would include partnerships with non-profits, private developers and all orders of government, including indigenous communities. It would reinforce Build Canada Homes's role as a permanent, delivery-focused institution rather than a time-limited program. The Build Canada Homes act would strengthen Build Canada Homes' ability to establish and maintain strong relationships across the housing ecosystem. This is the power of partnership: implementing lasting change. We are working together to build a strong and more unified approach to housing across the country.”
“With private, public and government partners showing up at the table, we would get housing built. Growing and strengthening partnerships is an integral aspect of building homes for Canadians. By combining resources and finding innovative solutions alongside its partners, Build Canada Homes is laying the groundwork for lasting solutions. The Build Canada Homes act would formally establish Build Canada Homes as a Crown corporation with a clear mandate. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes would have the operational independence, governance and flexibility needed to deliver affordable housing at scale. The legislation would allow Build Canada Homes to operate at arm's length from government, manage assets and innovative financial tools, and make long-term investment decisions more efficiently.”
“Using off-site, factory-built components would help reduce delays and deliver homes faster. The first units are expected to be completed in the very near future. As well, the Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec have signed a memorandum of agreement to guide their collaboration on Build Canada Homes projects. This partnership would accelerate approvals and help to identify additional housing projects across Quebec. It would also be critical for unlocking funding for affordable housing to be invested in communities across the province. Through Build Canada Homes, all levels of government are coming together to address the housing crisis. We would increase the supply of affordable housing and reduce the barriers to construction through a structured and collaborative approach.”
“Since its launch, Build Canada Homes has moved quickly to get housing projects off the ground. The Government of Canada has identified public lands that can be converted into housing. We have partnered with local governments to cut the red tape and to fast-track approvals. In January alone, we moved forward with two major points of progress through Build Canada Homes. The Government of Canada, the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated have signed an agreement in principle. It would deliver up to 750 much-needed homes across the territory, including public, affordable and supportive housing. Through the agreement, Build Canada Homes would provide up to $250 million towards this investment. Importantly, as part of this new partnership, up to 30% of units would be built using innovative, factory-built components.”
“Build Canada Homes would collaborate on proposals that would deliver shared housing outcomes with first nations, Inuit and Métis governments, indigenous housing providers, and urban indigenous organizations. The housing needs of indigenous communities would be met in the spirit of collaboration. The Government of Canada respects indigenous sovereignty and supports self-determined housing solutions that are designed and delivered with an indigenous-led perspective. Our indigenous partners know how to incorporate indigenous knowledge and culture and adopt housing solutions in a way that enables their communities to thrive. Build Canada Homes is committed to building in full partnership with indigenous peoples and advancing indigenous housing priorities. (1330) We are also working very closely with our provincial partners.”
“This includes non-profits, co-operatives, community housing providers or organizations that promote a variety of housing options for Canadians. These strategic partnerships would create homes that are affordable for a range of households across the income spectrum. Build Canada Homes would be well equipped to collaborate with all levels of government and community partners through agreements, financial support, joint ventures and shared development initiatives. It would look for strong collaboration and coordination with provinces and territories who would help advance priority projects. This could include providing land, accelerating the approval process and waiving applicable fees. Indigenous peoples face unique housing challenges.”
“The Build Canada Homes act would make it easier to develop partnerships across the entire housing ecosystem to bring together the right financing and the right projects. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes would combine access to federal lands, development expertise and flexible financial tools under one roof. It would accelerate the delivery of affordable housing, working with non-profits, indigenous organizations and all orders of government. This approach would reduce risk, address barriers and guide projects through the development process. Build Canada Homes would also work in close partnership with developers, investors and manufacturers to get housing financed and built. It would work directly with builders and housing providers who are focused on long-term affordability.”
“Build Canada Homes has a central position in forging strong partnerships across all levels of government and with indigenous communities. It works with non-profit agencies, as well as key stakeholders in the housing industry, to drive the development of affordable housing across Canada. This includes private developers and community organizations. Build Canada Homes cannot act alone. The success of its achievements lies in its partnerships. Stronger collaboration across all levels of government and with key partners is essential to tackling the housing challenges facing Canadians. Build Canada Homes streamlines and accelerates the launch of affordable housing projects. The agency attracts public, private and philanthropic investment, maximizing impact.”
“Housing is a fundamental need and growing demand for housing across the country requires urgent action. Build Canada Homes was created to act quickly and efficiently. This legislation would give Build Canada Homes the flexibility and operational autonomy to deliver on its mandate. It would streamline federal housing efforts by bringing these roles under one umbrella. At the same time, it would maintain a clear accountability framework to government and would strengthen collaboration across the housing sector to deliver the affordable housing at a scale and pace that Canadians need. Build Canada Homes would act as a developer, a financier, a coordinator and a catalyst for innovation in the housing sector. I would like to use my time today to speak about the importance of partnerships.”
“Madam Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member of Parliament for Taiaiako'n—Parkdale—High Park . I appreciate the opportunity to appear here today to speak in support of the Build Canada Homes act . This landmark legislation would establish Build Canada Homes as a Crown corporation dedicated to building and expanding access to more affordable homes in Canada. Over time, Canada's housing needs have evolved. While federal efforts have been delivered through a range of departments, agencies and programs, there is an opportunity to strengthen coordination and impact. Traditional construction and funding approaches alone are not meeting the scale and speed Canadians need, which is why we are moving forward with a new and innovative approach. All Canadians deserve an affordable place to call home.”
“I wonder how the member feels we should move forward in that spirit of partnership, because many of his comments were really talking about overriding the powers and responsibilities of municipal government.”
“Madam Speaker, I agree that we need better timelines. I agree that we need reform, but the way to do that is through partnership, including with municipalities. As a former municipal leader, I think that our colleague across the floor would believe in that as well. The statement from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities welcomes the federal government's Build Canada Homes initiative as a strong signal of leadership on the housing crisis. This announcement shows a clear commitment to working in partnership with municipalities as well as provinces, territories, indigenous governments, housing providers, non-profits and developers to deliver practical, results-driven solutions that meet the urgent housing needs of Canadians. I truly believe in partnership. I believe in partnership with municipal and provincial governments.”
“Mr. Speaker, we have lots of respect for all the individuals who are out there building important infrastructure in Canada. We expect all employers to follow the rules to ensure that Canadians are safe day in and day out. We will continue to work forward so we can make sure that happens.”
“Mr. Speaker, the Conservatives are all talk, and we are all action. In 100 days, Build Canada Homes has secured landmark agreements with provinces and cities. It has advanced construction on six federal lands. We have lined up thousands of new homes for construction. Over the past month alone, affordable housing projects have gotten well under way in Nova Scotia, Quebec and Ontario. We are ready to deliver 7,500 homes right away. This is how we accelerate housing. The momentum is building. The Conservatives should join us.”
“Mr. Speaker, Conservatives have the opportunity to work with us on this side of the House by supporting the budget implementation act, which has funding for housing-enabling infrastructure through the build Canada strong fund. It also includes measures to decrease the GST, in particular for first-time homebuyers and young Canadians. Importantly, the Conservatives can support the Build Canada Homes act, which would catalyze innovation and modern methods of construction to bring down homebuilding costs for everyone.”
“Mr. Speaker, it was most disappointing to see the Conservatives, yesterday, voting against a national strategy for housing for young Canadians. On this side, we care deeply about housing affordability for young Canadians. That is why we have the Build Canada Homes act before the House, which would catalyze innovation in homebuilding and bring down home costs for young Canadians and all Canadians.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is regrettable the member opposite is not supportive of Build Canada Homes. I was just in his riding, where we announced a project. I spoke with the residents living in affordable housing there, and they talked about how important it was. We know that with budget 2025, we are working to accelerate construction. We are cutting delays, increasing permitting capacity and working with local governments to get more homes built. While we are doing that, they are voting against expanding mortgage rate criteria for young Canadians, they are voting against the first-time savings account and they are voting against the GST credit for first-time homebuyers. Why?”
“Mr. Speaker, there is more good news. Build Canada Homes is delivering affordable housing for Canadians. In just 100 days, it has secured landmark agreements with provinces and cities, and advanced building on six federal lands. It is lining up thousands of affordable homes with shovels in the ground very soon. Over the past month alone, it has projects under way in Nova Scotia, Quebec and Ontario, and it is setting forth on delivering 7,500 new homes. This is how we catalyze a new homebuilding industry. Keep the momentum going. Support the Build Canada Homes act .”
“Mr. Speaker, I have good news for the Conservatives. There are two bills before the House that they can support, which would improve affordability for young Canadians. The first is the budget implementation act, which would bring in the first-time home ownership GST rebate. It would also bring in housing infrastructure that would bring down the cost of housing. On top of that, the Conservatives can support the Build Canada Homes act, which would catalyze modern methods of construction and create jobs for young Canadians.”