Despite a government document suggesting COVID-19 measures will need to be in place until July, the Prime Minister says they are looking at all kinds of scenarios.
Justin Trudeau says our pandemic precautions may last longer, or they may take less time depending on how Canadians act.
“Your actions have a direct impact on how long this pandemic will last,” Trudeau told reporters.
The Prime Minister says we haven’t seen this type of civic mobilization since the Second World War.
“The government alone can not win this fight, we all have to answer the call of duty, this is a service that most of us have ever been called upon to do. We must listen to public health rules, it is your duty, staying home is your way to serve. So be smart about what you do and the choices you make,” Trudeau said.
He went on to say how well we do, and what we do right now determines where our country will be in two weeks or two months.
“It’s in your hands,” Trudeau added.
On the financial aid side of things, Trudeau says the federal wage subsidy program will be available soon to businesses big and small, that are not publically funded, including bars, restaurants, charities and non-profits.
Trudeau says businesses that have seen revenues decline by 30% or more will be eligible for wage subsidies of up to 75%.
He stresses this money is for workers, noting companies must do everything in their power to pay the remaining 25% of employees’ wages.
Another package is the Canada Emergency Response Benefit and Trudeau says applications will open on April 6th.
“By selecting direct deposit at www.canada.ca, you should receive your payment within three to five days. By mail, you will get your cheque within ten days. After applying all you need to keep getting this benefit is check in every month to say that you are still out of work.”
Trudeau says it’s time to pull together as a country and trust each other as Canadians, stressing stiff penalties will be handed out to those who cheat the system.
He adds if you are receiving a wage subsidy through your employer, you are not eligible for the emergency fund.
He is now reaching out to other party leaders to recall Parliament to pass what he calls the biggest economic program in Canada’s history.
Trudeau states “This must be a Team Canada effort.
