State “A” thinks tenants should sink or swim on their own. Maybe you should move. Province “B” is handing out dollars, but stopped yesterday, you’re too late. Nation “C” isn’t much interested in renters, still peddling dollars and tax relief for first time buyers. That’s not you? City “D” might have had an old motel suitable to accommodate you, but they’re pressing on with selling it to a luxury developer.
In a time of pandemic, federal systems have their well-rehearsed “our government level doesn’t handle that, instead try . . .” responses to frantic queries. Already we’re hearing reports of deserving but desperate people falling through the cracks everywhere.
Are federal government systems suitable for emergency use?
This writer has seen arguments in favour, praising the robust inventiveness of so many brilliant people producing different solutions in different regions for different people.
Okay, so somebody flying by the seat of the pants will get it right. Folks in that region may well survive, while the rest of us are flushed down the toilet. Don’t impress me much.
No, what this writer is looking for is something like a recent commitment from La Belle Province — Québec. On that province’s moving day, Québec is pledging that nobody will be left without a home. That’s not just a tall order, but a tall order in a hurry, since that province’s famous moving day is literally days away on July 1.1
No if’s, and’s or but’s, no “sorry, our government level doesn’t handle your particular problem. Just, ‘we’ll get it done.’
Bravo.
Read more in MTLBLOG: The Government Has Revealed New Programs To Help Low-Income Quebecers Make Rent
