OTTAWA, - September 27, 1999- A new agreement to transfer the administration of social housing resources from the Government of Canada to the Government of the Northwest Territories was signed today by the Honourable Alfonso Gagliano, Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and the Honourable Floyd K. Roland, Minister responsible for the Northwest Territories Housing Corporation (NWTHC).

This agreement replaces one which was signed on April 24, 1997 with the Northwest Territories, and reflects the creation of the two new Territories on April 1, 1999.

"This new agreement with the Northwest Territories completes the transfer of Government of Canada social housing resources for the two territories," stated Minister Gagliano. "This excellent example of cooperation between our governments will not only eliminate overlap and improve services delivery, but will maximize the impact of taxpayer's dollars in managing social housing."

"I welcome the opportunity to meet with my federal colleague for the first time in order to sign this new agreement and to discuss housing needs in the Northwest Territories," said Minister Roland. "With this agreement, the new Northwest Territories has a continued commitment from the Federal Government for funding."

There are some 2,700 federally-assisted social housing units in the Northwest Territories. The Government of Canada currently contributes approximately $33 million annually to support these units. Like other Canadians, Territorial residents have full access to other housing products and services offered by CMHC.

The Government of the Northwest Territories, through the NWTHC, contributes a total of $41 million annually, under various programs, in an attempt to meet the housing needs of Northerners.

Negotiations are continuing with the other provinces to finalize agreements to transfer the administration of federally-funded social housing. New Social Housing Agreements have already been signed with Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, the Yukon Territory, Manitoba and Nunavut.