By Canadian Press

Opposition says B.C. NDP ‘blame shifting’ on housing; non-profit says no wrongdoing

May 9, 2023 | 2:49 PM

VICTORIA — A non-profit housing provider in British Columbia says it won’t give up on its management despite being embroiled in a report that highlights risks to public funds and criticizes leadership at the provincial housing agency. 

The board of directors at Atira Women’s Resource Society responded to the forensic audit report in a statement, noting there were no allegations of financial improprieties. 

The Ernst and Young audit found mismanagement related to a conflict of interest between the former CEO of BC Housing, Shayne Ramsay, and his spouse, Janice Abbott, the CEO of Atira Women’s Resource Society, the largest housing operator at the Crown corporation. 

Premier David Eby responded sharply on Monday when asked about Abbott’s future at Atira, saying the government expects the housing provider to take steps to ensure public confidence in its operations, which could be leadership change.

The Atira statement says it will examine the audit’s recommendations and take actions to resolve them, while it continues to support its senior leadership. 

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The audit report and the management of public housing in B.C. was hotly debated in the legislature with Opposition BC United Leader Kevin Falcon saying the report highlights the New Democrat government’s failure to meet its housing targets for those who are most vulnerable. 

Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon says the government will launch an inspection and audit process to ensure public housing dollars are spent properly.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Tuesday, May 9, 2023.

The Canadian Press