Saskatchewan’s NDP Opposition is calling for immediate government action to address the growing homelessness crisis, particularly in Saskatoon. NDP deputy leader Vicki Mowat highlighted a significant rise in homeless encampments, with the Saskatoon fire department reporting 1,248 encampments in the first eight months of 2023—nearly triple the number from 2022. As winter approaches, Mowat expressed concern over the harsh conditions people in these encampments face and called for urgent measures to provide safe housing.
The NDP proposes several solutions, including implementing rent control laws, restoring direct Saskatchewan Income Support payments to landlords, and repairing thousands of vacant government housing units to provide more shelter. Mowat also emphasized that while municipalities like Saskatoon are taking steps to address homelessness, the provincial government must lead on social services, as it is constitutionally responsible.
The homeless count in Saskatoon has tripled, with nearly 1,500 people identified last year, and numbers are expected to rise further. Saskatchewan Social Services Minister Terry Jenson acknowledged that homelessness is a national issue, not unique to Saskatchewan, and emphasized the need for collaboration across all levels of government to provide social supports, particularly for individuals dealing with addiction.
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