Advisory council on homelessness holds first meeting

Press Release

19 November 2025

FREDERICTON (GNB) – An advisory council established by the government’s ministerial task force on homelessness held its first meeting Monday in Fredericton.

The council, made up of members from 19 community organizations, came together to set its terms of reference and outline its next steps.

“Homelessness calls for immediate, co-ordinated action, and I’m pleased to see this group come together so quickly,” said David Hickey, minister responsible for the New Brunswick Housing Corporation and chair of the task force. “Having the right people at the table means we can make informed decisions, and this council will help us respond more quickly and effectively to the needs of New Brunswickers.”

The advisory council includes representatives from municipalities, service providers, the business community, and Indigenous and LGBTQ+ communities, as well as groups representing those who have experienced homelessness.

“I’m heartened to see our community partners coming together with such determination,” said Social Development Minister Cindy Miles. “Their willingness to collaborate shows what is possible when we unite behind a shared purpose. Together, we’re taking meaningful steps to address homelessness with dignity and compassion.”

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. It will also work with municipal and community partners across the province to address each area’s unique needs.

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 and supportive housing units.

Media Contact(s)

Kate Wright, communications, Department of Social Development, kate.wright@gnb.ca.

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