BIG-CITY MAYORS WANT $12.6B FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The mayors of Canada’s largest cities are calling on the federal Liberals to set aside $12.6 billion during the next decade to help build new affordable housing units. Pictured, Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson, left, and Toronto Mayor John Tory. In the second phase of its infrastructure program, Ottawa plans to allocate $17.7 billion for affordable housing, seniors homes, recreational facilities and child care. However, Social Development Minister Jean-Yves Duclos warns it may not be as much as everyone hopes. The Liberals’ first budget set aside $2.3 billion for the sector, including money to build affordable rental units. On Friday, Duclos unveiled details of a $208.3-million fund to help build 4,000 units over five years.