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“I am a Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, or free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.” ~~ John G. Diefenbaker

In response to COVID-19, one week waiting period to be waived -- Employment Insurance Benefits to kick in immediately for those in self-isolation


Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, earlier this morning, announced a number of new measures the government is talking, with regards to the COVID-19 virus. 

The government is establishing a more than $1 billion COVID-19 Response Fund towards current measures already underway to respond to the outbreak, as well as new investments to limit the spread of the virus in Canada and prepare for its possible broader impacts on our people, our economy, and our small businesses.

Measures of particular importance to Canadian workers, which were announced this morning, include:

... support to workers in quarantine or who have been directed to self-isolate who will claim Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits by waiving the mandatory one-week waiting period so they can be paid for the first week of their claim. The government is also exploring additional measures to support other affected Canadians, including income support for those who are not eligible for EI sickness benefits ...and ...

... enhancements to the Work-Sharing program to help support employers and their workers who are experiencing a downturn in business due to COVID-19.

Work-sharing helps keep workers employed and able to receive income support even as their hours of work may be reduced. These enhancements will double the length of time that employers and workers are eligible to use work-share from 38 to 76 weeks, and streamline processes so help can be accessed as soon as possible.


More information regarding the virus, actions being taken, and your own self-care, can be found by CLICKING HERE

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