Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, skin irritation, coughing, fever, shortness of breath, night asthma, and even respiratory infections, all of these can be caused by one thing: mould in the house. As Health Canada tells us, mould is the word used to describe the fungus that grows on food or damp materials, like windowsills, carpets or walls of kitchens, bathrooms or other areas where moisture is in the air. When mould grows, it releases spores into the air, and when people breathe in these spores, their health can be affected. Infants, children, and the elderly are particularly susceptible. It is elders I want to talk about today, Mr. Speaker.
In my riding, in the Hamlet of Fort Providence, residents have discovered mould in several homes belonging to community elders. Several elders moved out on September 12th after receiving a one-day notice to move out. The affected homes are part of old housing stock built in the 1970s, and their concrete basements provide the ideal damp environment for mould growth. To protect their health, affected elders have left the comfort of their homes to stay with family and friends. But after a long period of disruption, they are eager to return to their homes.
Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, they are unable to do that. While contractors are working to remediate the homes that have been affected, they are working according to their own schedules. This slow pace is keeping Fort Providence elders from living in the comfort and safety of their own healthy, mould-free homes. This must be addressed properly and completely as soon as possible. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Masi. Members' statements. Member for Sahtu.
