Ontario’s housing slowdown putting 100,000 jobs at risk

QUEEN’S PARK – Ontario NDP Shadow Minister for Finance & Shadow Minister for Treasury Board Jessica Bell (University–Rosedale) and Shadow Minister for Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Catherine Fife (Waterloo) released the following statement in response to reports that Canada risks losing up to 100,000 housing jobs due to collapsing housing starts:

“Ontario is already facing a huge crisis. From rising unemployment, a major increase in the cost of living, and now we’re warned that in Canada nearly 100,000 good housing jobs could vanish. That is a direct threat to families, communities, and the future of our economy,” said Bell. “You cannot solve a housing crisis by allowing construction to grind to a halt. People need homes, and workers need jobs. It’s that simple.”

“Ford is failing to connect the dots,” said Fife. “When housing starts collapse, it doesn’t just delay homes, it puts people out of work, it weakens our local economies, and it drives skilled trades out of the sector for good. Ontario needs a real plan that invests in building homes people can afford while protecting and creating jobs in construction, manufacturing, and the supply chain.”

“Losing jobs in the middle of a housing crisis shows how reckless it is to rely on the private market alone. When homes are only built if they bring in maximum profits, people lose twice: no homes and no jobs. Families are struggling to pay their bills, and young people are worried about their future. Ontario should be leading with smart housing investments, not leaving workers and renters to carry the cost of failed policies.”

“Ontario’s New Democrats are ready to deliver a plan that puts people at the centre of housing and economic growth,” concluded Fife. “That means getting government back to building affordable housing with our Homes Ontario plan, protecting good-paying jobs in construction, and ensuring workers and families have the stability and hope they deserve.”