Former Saskatchewan premier Brad Wall has registered to lobby on behalf of a Calgary-based real estate trust, new disclosures from the federal Office of the Commissioner of Lobbying show.
Wall, who was considered by some last year as a possible federal Tory leadership contender, before he ruled out that possibility, registered last week with the commissioner’s office to lobby on behalf of Avenue Living Real Estate Core Trust. According to his filing, he wants to set up a call with the federal minister responsible for housing for a “general introduction to the business of the client and to seek support for an application to [the Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corporation] for large cap borrow status.”
While Wall, who served as Saskatchewan premier from 2007 to 2018, was named as a trustee to the company last spring, he’s listed in the registration as an outside consultant, working for Flying W Consulting Inc., which is based in Maple Creek, Sask., according to the filing.
Maple Creek is located in southwestern Saskatchewan, a roughly hour and a half drive from Swift Current, which Wall represented during his nearly 20-year tenure in the Saskatchewan Legislature.
A rental unit pictured in a file photo. Andrew Francis Wallace/Toronto Star
Avenue Living Core Trust is an open-ended mutual fund trust targeting “stabilized assets with strong occupancy and stable current income,” according to an article from the Western Investor. It was set up by Avenue Living Asset Management, which was founded in 2006 by Anthony Giuffre, Dr. Michael Giuffre and Carl Diodati. The first purchase the firm made was a 24-unit residential rental building in Brooks, Alta.
Also of note, Dylan McGuinty, brother of Liberal MP David and former Ontario premier Dalton, registered last week on behalf of Particle Vaccine Canada Ltd. to seek funding for a powder vaccine delivery technology. Particle Vaccine is owned/controlled by Grant Gazdig, a Canadian who runs an investment company in Hong Kong called Clipper Capital Ltd.
Collectively, there were 43 new registrations filed last week, representing 34 different client organizations, with the Hotel Association of Canada being named in separate five filings. SES S.A. and Memsel Manufacturing were both named in three new filings, while Hood Packaging Canada/Glopak Division appears twice in the latest batch of new registrations.
By lobby firm, StrategyCorp won the week with five new registrations followed by Loyalist Public Affairs with three while eight different companies had a pair. Collectively, 40 different lobbyists had new registrations last week, though only three – Paul Tye, Michael Juce and Evelyne Langlois-Paquette – had more than a single new listing. They each had two.
All consultant lobbyists and most in-house lobbyists (those lobbying for the company they work for) must register with the Office of the Commissioner of Lobbying if they are lobbying public office holders. They must also submit monthly reports (known as communication reports) detailing all lobbying communications with designated public office holders.
Two weeks ago, iPolitics counted 58 new registrations over that seven-day span, while three weeks ago, we saw 41.
The highlights
In recent agriculture registrations:
Edelman’s Christopher Vivone registered for the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) to lobby on a broad range of policy issues and funding levels. The CFA received $234,000 in federal funding last year.
In recent COVID-19 financial support registrations:
Michael Mostyn, the CEO of B’nai Brith, registered to discuss support for charities and non-profits impacted by COVID-19 and the possible rise of antisemitism and hate speech as a result of the pandemic.
Mark Quinn of Quinn Public Affairs registered for Arctic Gateway Group to get COVID-19 economic relief money to repair their rail track
The lights of the Intercontinental Hotel on Front Street displays a heart as Toronto encourages people to maintain physical distances as he combats the spread of COVID-19 in Toronto. April 4, 2020. Steve Russell/Toronto Star
The Hotel Association of Canada built on previous registrations related to the pandemic by being registered by an army from StrategyCorp to lobby about the particular damage the pandemic and border closures is having on the tourist industry. The new lobbyists are Erik De Lorenzi, Conal Slobodin, Troy Sherman, Andrew Steele and Leslie Noble.
In recent COVID-19/medical research/supplies registrations:
A trio from Loyalist Public Affairs — Nicholas Pozkhe, Kenzie McKeegan and Christopher Froggatt — registered on behalf of Memsel Manufacturing Co. to discuss the sale, import and manufacturing of medical devices.
Summa Strategies Kait LaForce registered for primed Medical Products about making and/or procuring PPE.
Paul Tye of Sussex Strategy registered for Canada Medical Nonwovens Co. Ltd. to lobby about creating a Canadian facility to manufacture personal protective equipment.
Tye also registered for Capital Sports Management Inc., one of the subsidiaries of Eugene Melnyk’s parent company that owns the Ottawa Senators, to discuss “non financial’ recovery opportunities to allow sports organizations to rebuild from the pandemic lockdown. Capital Sports Management is a recreational facility design and management firm that operates the three “Sensplex” arenas in the Ottawa area.
Conlin Bedard LLP owners Paul Conlin and Ben Bedard registered for steel manufacturer ArcelorMittal Dofasco G.P. and Stelco respectively about the Time Limits and Other Periods Act (COVID-19) as relates to Special Import Measures Act. Last year both companies received $50 million each in federal funding.
In recent environment/climate registrations:
Vice President Cory Basil registered for EDF Renewables Development Inc. to get economic recovery funding to build green infrastructure.
In recent health registrations:
Kevin Bosch of Hill+Knowlton registered for SED Administrative Services to discuss the “procurement matters associated with the pending competition for the Public Service Health Administration program,” which is the largest health care plan in Canada with over 600,000 members.
Other:
Hood Packaging Canada – Glopak Division is new to the lobby registry. It was added by Fatima Halimi and Alexander Monteil of The CAI Global Group Inc.. The company is seek funding from the Quebec regional development agency to purchase new equipment for the manufacturing facility
Amélie Gadient of Hill+Knowlton registered for the Canadian Animal Health Institute about a long list of issues around veterinary service fees and regulation of veterinary drugs.
Communications reports
There were 219 communication reports filed last week.
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
