On May 4th, 2012, a NDP motion by MP Réjean Genest (Shefford) was passed that calls for federal support for Canadian municipalities in their efforts to combat homelessness while also recognizing the need to invest in purpose-built rental housing construction in communities all across Canada. 

The Motion:
M-331 — May 4, 2012 — Deferred recorded division on the motion of Mr. Genest (Shefford), seconded by Ms. Morin (Saint-Hyacinthe—Bagot), — That, in the opinion of the House, the government should: (a) keep with Canada’s obligation to respect, protect and fulfill the right to housing under the UN International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights; (b) support efforts by Canadian municipalities to combat homelessness; and (c) adopt measures to expand the stock of affordable rental housing, with a view to providing economic benefits to local housing construction businesses.

News Release: FCM’s Big City Mayor’s Caucus praises NDP motion for more and affordable rental housing