Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities

The committee began by agreeing unanimously to a motion from Annie Koutrakis to study specific clauses of Bill C-15, the budget implementation act, focusing on housing and infrastructure measures. The motion, amended to set a deadline for submitting other witness names at the next meeting, invites the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, the Minister of Jobs and Families, the Auditor General, and Ana Bailão to appear. The committee will forward any recommendations or amendments to the Standing Committee on Finance by February 27, 2026.

Minister Gregor Robertson then appeared to discuss the proposed measures. He outlined that Bill C-15 would operationalize Build Canada Homes, a new agency with an initial $13 billion investment, by authorizing up to $11.5 billion from the consolidated revenue fund for its operations and affordable housing financing. He also explained that the bill would increase the Canada Infrastructure Bank's statutory capital from $35 billion to $45 billion to unlock financing for major projects in housing, trade, decarbonization, Indigenous economic development, and advanced technologies like AI.

During questioning, the minister faced scrutiny from Conservative members about the lack of specific legislation approving the CIB's expanded mandate into AI and digital infrastructure, and about protections for workers displaced by AI. He responded that the CIB's priorities are set through priorities letters and corporate plans, and that the focus is on leveraging private investment for public benefit. Liberal and Bloc Québécois members asked about the agreement with Quebec, modern construction methods, support for rural communities, and programs for seniors and homelessness. The minister highlighted early results from Build Canada Homes, including agreements with provinces and over 7,500 homes enabled, and noted that programs like Reaching Home are under review for renewal. The committee did not resolve any outstanding issues or take further decisions beyond adopting the motion.