Articles from Radio-Canada

A report by Ratehub.ca indicates a decline in housing prices in seven Canadian cities, with Hamilton experiencing the most significant drop. The report highlights that more affordable properties are entering the market, attracting first-time buyers. Despite stable mortgage rates, price adjustments in cities like Hamilton and Toronto are leading to improved housing affordability. Conversely, cities like Regina and Montreal saw housing prices increase.

The Ontario government's goal to build 1.5 million homes by 2031 seems increasingly unlikely due to a slow pace in residential construction over the next few years. The provincial budget highlights an increase in funding for housing-related infrastructure but fails to expedite the construction process. Critics highlight that the measures are ineffective and don't address the housing affordability crisis. Trade tariffs and other economic factors are cited as impacting the pace of new housing starts, with further coordination needed between provincial and federal governments.

The Ontario government has unveiled a new housing plan aiming to build 1.5 million new homes by 2031. The plan includes incentives like delayed development fees and reduced municipal requirements, aiming to speed up construction. However, critics express concerns about potential municipal debts and the affordability of these new homes, given the cap on affordable housing requirements. The plan has received mixed responses from local officials and builders.

The article discusses the lack of diversity and inclusion in the Canadian construction industry, particularly for racial minorities and women. Despite federal promises to build more affordable housing, underrepresented groups face systemic barriers. The article highlights the absence of sufficient data to address these issues and stresses the need for targeted initiatives to support diversity. Efforts to improve representation and inclusion, such as increased outreach and strategic planning, are underway in Ontario.

The Ontario government announces an additional $705 million investment over three years in workforce training to address the need for 500,000 skilled trade workers over the next decade. Premier Doug Ford highlights this initiative as vital in countering the economic uncertainty amplified by U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump. The budget, set to be presented on May 15, will also allocate $150 million from 2025-2026 for renovating and expanding worker training centers.