Saskatchewan NDP criticizes the province for rising homelessness while over 2,000 public housing units sit empty across Regina, Saskatoon, and beyond.
NDP Renews Criticism Over Vacant Housing Amid Crisis
Provincial Inaction Highlighted by Saskatchewan NDP
Saskatchewan’s Opposition NDP intensified its pressure on the provincial government Wednesday, accusing it of failing to address the province’s homelessness crisis. At simultaneous press events in Regina and Saskatoon, the NDP revealed that thousands of social housing units remain empty, even as homelessness rates surge in urban centres.
Brent Blakley, the NDP’s Social Services Critic, stood on the steps of the Legislative Building in Regina, stating: “The Sask. Party has no plan for housing. People are living on sidewalks while units sit locked and empty.”
Data Shows Thousands of Units Sit Unused
According to government housing data obtained via a Freedom of Information request to the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, there are approximately 17,200 social and affordable housing units in the province. As of 2024, 12.5%—over 2,000 units—are vacant.
The NDP highlighted alarming local figures: nearly 200 units vacant in Saskatoon, and more than 400 in Regina, despite increasing numbers of unhoused residents. “These homes could save lives,” said Blakley, stressing the importance of using available resources.
Root Causes: Maintenance Failures and Policy Gaps
Blakley blamed the province’s failure to maintain or renovate existing housing units and its lack of foresight. “Some communities have more than half of their public units vacant,” he said. “We either didn’t fix them or didn’t plan for people who need them.”
He also criticized the inadequacy of Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS), which rose just 2%—$30 monthly. “That’s not enough to cover rent or food. People are making impossible choices,” he said.
Province Responds, Cites Progress
In a statement Wednesday afternoon, the Government of Saskatchewan defended its record, pointing to a 30% reduction in vacant housing since 2021. Officials said investments continue to support long-term housing solutions, although no new funding announcements were made.
Regina Advocates Demand Encampment Policy Shift
Meanwhile, community members gathered at Regina City Hall to urge the city to revise its approach to homeless encampments. They called for policies that protect individuals living outdoors and prioritize placing them in permanent housing before enforcing park curfews or removals.
Activist Mandla Mthembu said urgency is critical during summer heat waves. “If decisions are made today, they’re already too late for some. But we still have to push,” he said.
City Response: Balance and Coordination
The City of Regina issued a statement acknowledging ongoing challenges related to encampments. The city emphasized its coordination role with community agencies and said its approach prioritizes the dignity and safety of all residents.
“We’re working to balance public safety and the needs of vulnerable populations,” the city said, while noting it is not a direct service provider.
Looking Ahead: Demands for Repair, Reform, and Relief
The NDP continues to call for urgent action: repairs to vacant units, increased housing support, and policy changes to match the scale of the crisis. Advocates are similarly calling on municipalities to provide immediate, humane solutions to encampments.
With over 2,000 publicly owned homes sitting empty and the number of unhoused people rising, the Opposition says inaction is no longer an option.
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