A group of protesters gathered outside Nova Scotia MLA Brendan Maguire’s constituency office, demanding support for legislation to end fixed-term leases in the province. The picketing event was organized by the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN). Heather Clark, chair of ACORN’s Halifax division, stated that fixed-term leases are being used as a loophole for landlords to increase rent beyond the province’s cap. Many tenants are fearful of losing their homes and ending up on the streets due to the prevalence of fixed-term leases. This has led to an increase in the homeless population and strain on public services.
Critics argue that fixed-term leases are creating barriers for tenants in the rental market, leading to increased pressure and stress. ACORN is pushing for legislation that would modify existing laws allowing fixed-term rental agreements. This includes implementing permanent rent control and other changes to provide a stable and healthy living environment for tenants. The rally aimed to urge legislators to approve new bills that would address these issues and create a more equitable rental market for both tenants and landlords.
The Nova Scotia government responded to inquiries about the prevalence of fixed-term leases by stating that they do not collect data on this issue. The province emphasized its focus on increasing housing supply as a solution to challenges in the rental market, rather than adjusting regulations around fixed-term leases. However, protesters believe that legislative changes are necessary to address the growing issue of unstable housing and homelessness in the province.
Selena, a youth worker who attended the rally, shared her experience of seeing more young people struggling to find stable housing due to fixed-term leases and unlawful evictions. She described fixed-term leases as a violation of human rights and stressed the importance of everyone having access to safe and affordable housing. Selena also spoke about her personal experience of being houseless for a few months after her previous home was damaged during severe flooding in the province.
Overall, the protest highlights the urgent need for legislative action to address the challenges created by fixed-term leases in Nova Scotia. Advocates are calling for reforms to provide more stability and security for tenants in the rental market. By pushing for changes such as permanent rent control and amendments to the Residential Tenancies Act, ACORN and other organizations are seeking to create a more equitable housing environment for all residents of the province. The issue of fixed-term leases is seen as a major contributor to homelessness and housing instability, requiring immediate attention and action from policymakers.
