In June 2023, the first review panel hearing under Canada’s NHSA was launched. The Advocate, Marie-Josée Houle, elected to focus the first such hearing on the urgent issue of the financialization of purpose-built, affordable rental housing in Canada. As part of the hearing, the Advocate submitted written representations based on research commissioned by her office to examine the growing role of financial firms in the residential real estate market, long-term care, and seniors’ housing. Her representations were also informed by the submissions she received from individuals and organizations, as well as by her visits to communities across Canada to engage with rights holders, civil society, industry stakeholders, and policymakers. 

This document is a summary of the representations submitted by the Advocate during the hearing.