I just returned from our national (Canadian Home Builders Association) meetings in Ottawa and it was interesting to see the issues we have in Manitoba and Winnipeg are very similar to the issues other provinces and cities throughout Canada are facing.
At the urban council (14 largest Canadian cities) meeting, there was an outstanding presentation by the Greater Ottawa Homebuilders Association on housing affordability. They broke down the cost of a new home and clearly showed how municipal fees and taxes and serviced land represented half of the final cost of the home. Those numbers are remarkably similar across the country.
The renovators' council discussed the importance of consumer education at length. It is vitally important to have a written contract before proceeding with any renovation. The underground economy is alive and well and estimated to represent around $13.65 billion in construction in Canada. Doing business this way hurts us all.
MP Phil McColeman is chairman of the Conservative government's housing and construction caucus. This group has been very active in meeting with the Canadian Home Builders Association, the Canadian Real Estate Association, the Canadian Federation of Apartment Associations and numerous other groups in an effort to best tackle housing issues in Canada. Manitoba is extremely well represented on this caucus with MPs Candice Bergen, Joyce Bateman, Rod Bruinooge, Larry Maguire and Steven Fletcher all involved.
The CHBA is launching a net zero energy housing council this year. With considerable research being done by this council, it is anticipated the housing industry will continue to lead the way in housing energy savings without government legislation.
The professional development committee is pursuing how to maximize use of the new Canada Jobs Grant and opportunities to help resolve the skilled labour shortage through the express-entry system of hiring immigrants.
Skilled-labour shortages, energy conservation, underground economy, infrastructure and affordability; these are issues we have talked about in Manitoba and are constantly seeking to resolve. Perhaps, through a national effort, we can make a difference.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
