NB ACORN member Jonathan King sought assistance from the Tenant and Landlord Relations Office after his landlord imposed a 65% rent increase in August. Following a successful case that established the landlord could only raise the rent by 3% in accordance with the rent cap, the landlord retaliated against him. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of tenants understanding their rights and the necessity of standing up and advocating for themselves in such situations.
Maritimes and Beyond: Trump’s Tariffs and the Devastating Impact on Tenants
Nichola speaks with Alejandra Ruiz Vargas the President of ACORN Canada about the serious effects of Trump’s tariffs. These tariffs will cause prices to rise which will hurt low- and moderate-income families the most. Tenants will struggle to pay their rent as living costs increase. Alejandra emphasized that the financial burden will fall heavily on those who can least afford it. Together they highlight the need for policies that protect vulnerable communities during these challenging times. Alehandra also discusses the importance of turning up to ACORN Canada’s National Housing Day of Action on the 19th of March!
Canada’s National Voice for an Energy Efficiency Economy
Host Nichola Taylor and Abhilash Kantamneni, the Director of Action Research at Efficiency Canada, discuss Canada’s energy efficiency economy. The discussion highlights the advantages of energy efficiency programs while also addressing the potential repercussions for tenants if landlords transfer the associated costs to them. Additionally, the dialogue emphasizes the significant role that ACORN currently plays and will continue to play in this sector.
Maritimes and Beyond: The Future of Rent Control in New Brunswick after the Historic Rent Cap Victory
New Brunswick ACORN achieved a significant milestone in the autumn of 2024 when the newly elected provincial Liberal Government declared a 3% rent cap, set to take effect on February 1, 2025. Host Nichola Taylor discusses with Peter Jogeneelen, co-chair of NB ACORN, about the prospects of rent control in New Brunswick, particularly in light of the new “Do Rent Control Right” initiative. NB ACORN advocates for a comprehensive rent control framework that safeguards the rights of all tenants.
Maritimes and Beyond; The Impact of Energy Poverty on the Lives of New Brunswickers
Energy poverty affects 80% of low-income households who spend more than 6% on electricity in New Brunswick. What can groups like ACORN do to push for better policy when it comes to energy poverty? Host Nichola Taylor and the Executive Director of The Human Development Council, Randy Hatfield discuss the impact of poverty on the lives of New Brunswickers.