Nunavik to get $12 million for new affordable housing

Low-cost housing in Nunavik will get a boost, thanks to a commitment of $12 million for affordable housing in the region.

Private individuals, companies or co-operatives must commit 15 per cent of the cost of construction. The federal government has agreed to pay 55 per cent, and the provincial government 35 per cent of the construction cost.

Some of the money will be allocated to the renovation of the former school extension in Kangiqsualujjuaq. The extension, which has been moved away from an avalanche-prone slope, is to be renovated into 16 units.

The money is part of Quebec’s share of $680 million in new federal money to build more low-cost housing.

An additional $6 million to $8 million will go toward renovating social housing units and housing under the regional health and social services board.

Details on the programs are expected by mid-February.

“We have to move quickly if we want to get something going next summer,” said Johnny Adams, chairman of the Kativik Regional Government.