Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced a $1-billion package to help Canadians cope with the spread of COVID-19.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced a $1-billion package to help Canadians cope with the spread of COVID-19, with half of the money going to the provinces and territories.
During a news conference in Ottawa Wednesday, Trudeau said the federal government is “pulling out all the stops” to help Canadians through the global health crisis. The package includes $275 million for additional research such as vaccine development, and $200 million for federal medical supplies, supports for Indigenous communities and education efforts.
The federal government will also waive the one-week waiting period for employment insurance to assist workers and businesses affected by the novel coronavirus, and exploring additional measures to support other affected Canadians, including income support for those who are not eligible for EI sickness benefits.
“I want all premiers and Canadians to know your government is here for you,” Trudeau said. “We will make sure you have everything you need.”
Other elements of the COVID-19 response fund:
- $500 million to provinces and territories for critical health care system needs and to support mitigation efforts, including access to testing, equipment and to enhance surveillance and monitoring.
- $50 million for Public Health Agency of Canada’s COVID-19 communications and public education efforts.
- Enhancing Canada’s Work-Sharing program to support employers and their employees who experience a downturn due to COVID-19, doubling the length of time can use Work-Share from 38 to 76 weeks.
- $100 million to support federal public health measures such as enhanced surve