Housing Affordability Initiative

“The growing mismatch between housing supply and demand in communities across Ontario has made it more difficult for employers to fill labour gaps, particularly as the global competition for talent heats up. To ensure the long-term resilience of our economy, we encourage governments to balance consultation with bold action, such as ending exclusionary zoning and working in partnership with public and private sector partners to address labour shortages.” – Rocco Rossi, President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

“Addressing the housing affordability crisis must be a priority and we must find ways to increase supply. At Desjardins, we believe that every person, every family, has the right to affordable housing. The recommendations outlined in this report offer practical solutions that can have a positive impact for Ontarians and the economy. We are proud to partner with the OCC on this initiative and thank the many stakeholders who were involved.” –  Guy Cormier, President and CEO, Desjardins Group. 

“The OCC has challenged itself with addressing one of the key issues faced in Ontario today and has produced a brief that is balanced in its approach and makes actionable recommendations. Cadillac Fairview is proud to support this initiative and take part in the discussion alongside the many accomplished contributors that provided input for the policy brief.” – James Deitcher, Vice President, Development, Cadillac Fairview.

“The housing crisis is a threat to the economic stability and growth of the province. To achieve the goal of 1.5 million new homes in the next ten years, we need a comprehensive approach that will work for all Ontarians. We need more housing options, including more purpose-built rental housing, a more streamlined process for building them, and more skilled trades workers to build them. We need to keep working together with all stakeholders and levels of government to ensure we are successful.” – Tony Irwin, President and CEO | Federation of Rental Housing Providers of Ontario.

“Through the OCC’s Housing Affordability Initiative, we heard directly from a diverse range of housing sector stakeholders across Ontario, each highlighting the social and economic pressures felt in their communities as a result of the housing affordability crisis. These challenges significantly impact the business community’s ability to hire and retain talent. An all-hands-on-deck approach will be necessary to meet our current and future housing needs to help ensure Ontario’s economic future.” – Ester Gerassime, Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Senior Economic Analyst.

“As housing and rental costs continue to rise across the province, Ontarians have less available income to spend on other goods and services, impacting the business community and overall economy. Public, private, and non-profit sectors all have critical roles to play and must leverage their strengths to address needs along the housing continuum. We look forward to championing innovative partnership approaches between government and industry to address Ontario’s housing affordability crisis,” – Sara Beyer, Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Senior Policy Analyst.