By Caribbean News Global
OTTAWA, Canada – Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau announced that all provinces and territories have confirmed, or are in the process of confirming, plans to cost-share wage top-ups for their essential workers.
The government of Canada will provide up to $3 billion in support to increase the wages of low-income essential workers. Each province or territory will determine which workers would be eligible for support, and how much support they will receive.
“Workers are risking their health to provide us with essential care and services, and we need to make sure that they are paid properly for the work they do every day. We’re stepping up, and working with the provinces and territories, to give a much-needed wage boost to Canadians who are helping keep our country and economy strong during this difficult time,” said prime minister Trudeau.
These measures are part of the government of Canada’s comprehensive economic plan to help Canadians and businesses through this period of uncertainty. We will continue to monitor this evolving situation closely, and take additional actions as needed to protect our health and safety, and stabilize the economy.
Bill Morneau, minister of finance, said: “Canada’s front line workers are dealing directly with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic by taking care of Canadians in our hospitals and nursing homes. They deserve our support. This measure will help workers critical to the current COVID-19 response get the compensation they need.”