Government launches ministerial task force on homelessness

Release

Department of Social Development

September 16, 2025

SHEDIAC (GNB) – The government has established a ministerial task force on homelessness.

The task force, consisting of ministers and deputy ministers, will co-ordinate efforts across departments responsible for housing, social development, local government, justice and public safety, and mental health and addictions.

“Homelessness requires swift, co-ordinated action,” said David Hickey, minister responsible for the New Brunswick Housing Corporation and task force chair. “This committee will bring the right people together at one table so decisions can be made quickly and effectively for New Brunswickers.”

The task force aims to build on other actions taken by the government, such as the implementation of a rent cap, expansion of the direct-to-tenant rental benefit, continuation of the Rent Bank, and new investments in mental health and addictions, such as a mental health court, supportive housing units and 50 additional treatment beds.

Hickey said the group will concentrate on immediate measures to reduce homelessness while laying the foundation for long-term, systemic change. Regular reports to cabinet, quarterly public updates on chronic homelessness and an annual public report are meant to ensure transparency and accountability.

Other ministers serving on the task force are:

•              Social Development Minister Cindy Miles

•              Justice Minister Robert McKee, who is also minister responsible for addictions and mental health services

•              Public Safety Minister Robert Gauvin

•              Local Government Minister Aaron Kennedy

The task force will begin work immediately. Its first actions will include a provincial homelessness strategy and establishing an advisory council of community partners.