CLARK: A message to Ontario renters and landlords

This is a time for all Ontarians to pull together, and we’ve seen this happening in communities right across our province.

But I know people are anxious, wondering how they will pay their April rent in just a few days, and landlords are wondering how they will keep the lights on if rents aren’t paid.

Our government has been clear from Day One — we will ensure renters can stay in their homes during this challenging time.

That’s why we acted quickly to prevent evictions. Tenants who can pay their rent must do so, to the best of their abilities. But I want to be very clear — you cannot be forced to leave your home if you cannot pay your rent on April 1. Period.

Today, I’m calling on landlords to be as flexible as possible when it comes to collecting rent, starting with April, at a time when many people are struggling. The same goes for any planned rent increases landlords are contemplating, whether already approved by the Landlord and Tenant Board or not.

Of course, some landlords are also facing challenges, especially small landlords. While mortgage deferrals are available, some of you are waiting for news from your bank. Everyone needs to do their part right now.

To the tenants out there who are having challenges paying rent, please speak to your landlord about whether it can be postponed or if other payment arrangements can be agreed to. And landlords, please be as flexible as you can. We need to come together as Ontarians and support each other.

This week, our government and the federal government both announced a range of measures that will help everyday people, including reducing Ontario electricity rates and a federal taxable benefit of $2,000 a month for up to four months for eligible workers who have lost wages.

Our government has also committed $200 million to help vulnerable people through existing programs and $52 million of this will flow directly to those in financial crisis who can’t access federal assistance. This will help cover basic needs like rent, food, medicine, transportation and other services.

We are working closely with all levels of government, and will continue to do everything we can and will consider all available options in order to help the people of Ontario get through these difficult and uncertain times.