Liberals failing to make life more affordable for people in Halifax

HALIFAX – With the 2022 Budget, the NDP used its power to secure results that the Liberals were unable to achieve in seven years – results that will make a big difference in people’s lives. The pandemic and the increasing cost of living have taken a toll on people in Halifax. New Democrats are fighting to help haligonian families make ends meet.

"The cost of living has gone up: the price of homes, groceries, and gas is through the roof. People can no longer afford necessities, like rent and dental care. But unfortunately, the Liberals have been unable to deliver on promises to help Canadian families survive,” said the Leader of Canada’s NDP, Jagmeet Singh. “New Democrats have fought and won important victories that have benefited Canadians – like Medicare. We’re carrying on this fight so families can afford to live, whether ensuring truly affordable housing or dental care.”

Under Liberal MP Andy Filmore (Halifax), costs in Halifax have skyrocketed. With Filmore’s Liberal government’s plan, new builds only needed to account for 20% of affordable units – and the Liberal’s definition of affordable in Halifax was $2,334 per month. New Democrats know that’s unacceptable and so far from being affordable for people. Because of the NDP using their power, new builds in Halifax will now need to account for 40% of affordable units and rent will actually be affordable and will cost $998 or less.

If it wasn’t for Fillmore and the Liberals voting against Dental Care, against Pharmacare, and against an excess profits tax for big corporations who made billions off the backs of people during the pandemic, Haligonians could already have access to better services. Jagmeet Singh and the NDP used their power to make dental care, pharmacare, and more fair taxing a reality – securing real results for real people.

"For seven years, the Liberals have made big promises to Canadians, but they haven't delivered. The Liberals are out of touch with what the rising cost of living looks like for families in Halifax and across the country," said Singh. "New Democrats fought to help make life more affordable for Haligonians. We fought for dental care and housing changes so your family can finally get dental care without huge out-of-pocket costs and so you can find an affordable place to rent or live without having to leave Halifax. New Democrats will keep fighting to build a brighter future for you and your family — one that’s more affordable, equal, hopeful and secure."