Solutions to Quebec's housing crisis? There are five parties in the opposition

Opposition parties in the National Assembly are rejecting proposals on how to solve Quebec's housing crisis, saying the government's housing bill lacks sufficient answers.

The official opposition Liberals want QST exemptions on building materials, millions of dollars for municipalities to cut bureaucratic delays and faster water connections.

Quebec solidaire (QS), meanwhile, wants tax credits for intergenerational homes in addition to ending blind bidding.

CAQ's housing legislation (Bill 31) was introduced by Housing Minister France-Hélène Duranceau and includes restrictions on the use of rent transfers, new rules for landlords on rental rates, amendments to eviction regulations and other housing issues. The bill is expected to be passed in the coming weeks.

Intergenerational house construction

QS CAQ attempted to propose amendments to the bill, but was unsuccessful.

A second opposition party has proposed ending the blind bidding process, which drives up house prices, and on Sunday they proposed introducing a tax credit for converting or building intergenerational homes.

“The housing crisis is affecting young people who want to buy their first home, and older people who want to spend their retirement surrounded by family rather than in a retirement home,” said QS MNA Andres Fontecilla. “Thanks to our measure, families who want to live together under one roof will be able to kill two birds with one stone: save money and help relieve pressure on the market.”

QS offers Canada's CIRHM tax credit match and a 15 percent credit on eligible expenses up to $50,000, up to a maximum of $7,500.

“The savings created by converting and building intergenerational homes outweighs the tax credit,” Fontecilla said. “Hydro bills, snow removal, municipal taxes and even groceries help families cope with the rising cost of living.”

Three liberal proposals

According to the Liberals, housing projects are being delayed due to the lack of hydro-Quebec connections, as well as bureaucratic delays in obtaining permits from the city.

In addition, the party argues that by removing the provincial sales tax on building materials, housing starts will increase.

PLQ is proposing $200 million for municipalities to reduce the time it takes to analyze housing files and issue building permits.

“Six years without the CAQ has left Quebec in a precarious housing situation and concrete measures are urgently needed,” said PLQ housing critic Virginie Dafour.

Dufour said the CAQ bill lacks concrete solutions.