Title: Student Leaders Urge Nova Scotia to Tackle Housing Costs

HALIFAX – Student union leaders from Halifax universities are urging the Nova Scotia government to take action on the rising cost of housing. They claim that high rents are making it increasingly difficult for students to live and study in the province.

During a news conference held with the Nova Scotia NDP, Ellie Anderson, president of the University of King's College student union, shared that many students are struggling to manage their expenses. "Students have told me they are finding it hard to cope with high rent while also paying for tuition and necessities like food," she said.

Ethan Leckie, vice-president of the Dalhousie student union, emphasized the financial strain on students. He noted that many are forced to work multiple part-time jobs just to afford housing.

The student leaders are advocating for the government to replace the current temporary five percent rent cap with a more permanent rent control system. They are also calling for the government to fulfill its promise of a student housing plan made in 2022.

Anderson highlighted the issue of unsafe living conditions, stating that some students are dealing with unresponsive landlords. Both she and Leckie, along with NDP Leader Claudia Chender, are pressing the government to link rent increases to the consumer price index to provide more stability for renters.

The call for action comes as students face mounting financial pressures, and the leaders are hopeful that the government will respond to their concerns.