QUESTION PERIOD — Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
Funding for Programs
February 25, 2026
Senator Moreau, for a year and a half, the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax was repeatedly assured by the government that they would receive a contribution from the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program, or GICB, for their new centre. However, earlier this month, a form letter denied them funding without explanation.
Two weeks ago, the parliamentary secretary to Minister Robertson informed the centre that money could now be accessed through the Build Communities Strong Fund, or BCSF. However, details are not available, and the timing is unclear. Meanwhile, the centre’s construction is well advanced and might need to be downsized.
Senator Moreau, what is the timeline for the transition between GICB and BCSF, and what measures are in place to ensure that the transition between these programs does not inadvertently compromise —
Thank you, Senator.
Senator Moreau?
Thank you, Senator Prosper. You were kind enough to advise me of the question. Despite my best efforts, I cannot provide you a specific timeline.
I understand that the parliamentary secretary of Minister Robertson was informed that the money would now be accessed through another program. I will raise your question to the department again. I will provide you with a timeline as soon as I have the information proper because, at this time, I have no specific answer to your question.
Thank you, Senator Moreau.
Of the 9,500 clients serviced annually by the Friendship Centre, 2,500 receive primary care and mental health services. These services will be permanently cut if funding cannot be secured by the end of the fiscal year.
Would your government consider establishing interim bridge financing mechanisms for Indigenous-led infrastructure projects like this one as referenced?
I cannot speak to the government’s intention on funding agreements going forward, such as interim bridge financing, but over the past five years, Canada has invested over $3.5 billion to support Indigenous-led mental health programs.
The government is aware of the situation and the importance of bringing proper financing to those programs. Again, I will raise that situation with the minister, and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
