December 7, 2005
Doherty Takes on Slum Landlords
Fredericton - On the first regular sitting day of the Legislature, rookie MLA Dr. Ed Doherty (LIB - Saint John Harbour) wasted no time in getting to work.
Dr. Doherty introduced An Act Respecting the Protection of Low-Income Occupiers to get tough with slum landlords.
"I promised to be a strong voice for Saint John Harbour and it was clear that this was an issue people wanted action on," said Dr. Doherty. "It is a privilege to be able to serve the people of Saint John Harbour and to bring their concerns to the Legislature."
The proposed legislation would make changes in two existing acts.
The Residential Tenancies Act would extend protection to individuals living in boarding houses or lodging houses where three or more rooms are provided as
living accommodations.
Under the Municipalities Act, the following changes would be made:
1.Officers appointed by council would be able to enter premises 48 hours after notice is given to occupiers and owners.
2.A fine would be created for owners not respecting their obligations.
3.Current fines to owners would increase from a minimum of $240 to $500.
4.Current fines to occupiers would decrease from a minimum of $240 to $140.
5.Municipalities will be able to apply to Courts to get up to 50% of rent in order to pay for necessary repairs where owners have failed.
"People have the right to safe and affordable housing. This legislation is about protecting people and holding landlords accountable," said Dr.Doherty.
It is estimated that there are about 1000 problem cases in Saint John.
1 comment:
This is very good news, finally someone who will stand up for the little guy. I hope that this will extend to the Capital and the rest of the province as well. This is as all of us know, is an issue that has needed to be looked into for quite sometime. lets hope that it gets underway soon. I join with Charlie in saying Good work Dr. Ed!!!!
Post a Comment