Gregor Robertson: Building Supply, Not Cutting Prices
Canada’s newly appointed Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson has made it clear: the solution to the housing crisis lies in increasing supply, not driving prices down. Speaking ahead of his first cabinet meeting, Robertson emphasized the federal government’s focus on stabilizing the market by delivering more affordable housing.
Ambitious Plans to Boost Home Construction
Robertson pointed to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s pledge to nearly double homebuilding to 500,000 units annually. He acknowledged the challenge ahead, calling the plan “very ambitious” and warning it will take years to scale up. To accelerate progress, the government plans to leverage Canadian technology and off-site manufacturing to speed up construction.
Leveraging Mayoral Experience Amid Criticism
Reflecting on his decade as Vancouver’s mayor, Robertson defended his record amid rising housing prices during his tenure. He noted similar price surges occurred nationwide and lamented the lack of support from federal and provincial governments at the time. “I wasn’t getting the help I needed,” he said, underscoring his intent to use his local experience to influence federal housing policy.
Carney Highlights Jobs and Income Growth
Prime Minister Carney echoed Robertson’s stance, stressing that improving Canadians’ take-home pay and job opportunities is as crucial as managing costs. “It’s about jobs and growth in incomes that will help all Canadians get ahead,” Carney said, framing housing affordability within a broader economic context.
Opposition Voices Doubt
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized Robertson’s appointment, citing his past as Vancouver mayor when housing taxes and prices soared. Poilievre warned that with Robertson leading the file, “nothing is going to change” for Canadian homebuyers struggling with affordability.
The Road Ahead: Supply, Stability, and Collaboration
Robertson’s housing strategy centers on removing barriers to construction, supporting affordable housing projects, and fostering collaboration across government levels. While the path is long and complex, his experience and the government’s ambitious targets signal a renewed federal commitment to addressing Canada’s housing challenges.
Insight:
Canada’s housing crisis demands bold solutions. By focusing on supply and leveraging past experience, Minister Gregor Robertson aims to stabilize the market and expand affordable housing-though skeptics remain cautious. Will this approach deliver the change Canadians need?
