Trudeau commits $14 billion to provinces to help reopen economy safely

Jun 5 2020, 3:55 pm

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the federal government is prepared to commit $14 billion for provinces and territories to restart the economy safely amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said the money will be to ensure businesses have PPEs (personal protective equipment), childcare, and 10 days of paid sick leave.

“We want to make sure you’re protected when you go back to work,” said Trudeau

According to the prime minister, the funds will be distributed through a safe-restart agreement between the federal government, and the provinces and territories.

During his press conference on Friday, Trudeau also announced financial aid for people with disabilities.

The new aid will come in the form of a one-time, non-taxable payment of up to $600.

He also said that the government is establishing a national workplace accessibility stream to find and create jobs for those with disabilities, and is funding five projects to get supportive devices to overcome workplace barriers.

“We know this pandemic has deeply affected the lives and health of all Canadians, and disproportionately affected Canadians with disabilities in particular,” said Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, in a statement.

“The cost to safely get groceries, medication, and other basic necessities has increased, while services like disability support workers and therapy may be unavailable because volunteer and subsidized services have declined. We have listened to the concerns of Canadians with disabilities and received advice from the COVID-19 Disability Advisory Group on how to best provide support during this difficult time. I am confident that the measures announced today will greatly benefit Canadians with disabilities across the country.”

Daily Hive StaffDaily Hive Staff

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