October 22, 2025
Student Housing Nova Scotia Welcomes new Provincial Ministers of Housing and Municipal Affairs
HALIFAX, NS — Yesterday, Premier Tim Houston announced a number of changes to the provincial cabinet, signalling a renewed focus on economic development and growth. These changes include the introduction of a dedicated Minister of Housing, the Hon. John White. Student Housing Nova Scotia (SHNS) would like to congratulate Minister White on his appointment and welcome leadership, at a time when post-secondary communities across the province continue to face housing pressures.
“Students represent more than 5% of Nova Scotia’s population,” said Mitchell Archibald, Executive Director of Student Housing Nova Scotia. “A critical part of solving the housing crisis is ensuring that students have access to affordable, secure places to live. The creation of a dedicated Minister of Housing is a strong step forward – one that will help to accelerate solutions that expand the supply of affordable, accessible housing across the province. We are encouraged by the appointment of a dedicated Minister of Housing to lead the Province’s effort on this critical file.”
SHNS also welcomes the Hon. John A. MacDonald as the new Minister of Municipal Affairs, recognizing the critical role of municipalities in supporting housing development and preservation.
“These changes show that the government is taking the housing crisis seriously, and understands the need for an all-hands-on-deck approach,” Archibald said. “Housing and post-secondary education are key components of Nova Scotia’s long-term prosperity. We look forward to engaging with Minister White and Minister MacDonald, and continuing to work collaboratively across government to create and preserve housing that meet the needs of students in communities across the province.”
SHNS extends its appreciation to Minister Colton Leblanc for his leadership on the housing file, and wishes him continued success as Minister of Growth and Development.
SHNS remains committed to partnering with the Province, along with Nova Scotia’s municipalities, post-secondary institutions, and student organizations to deliver secure and affordable housing options for students.