The prime minister says the plan to top up the wages of essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic is being finalized.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says this has been a collaborative approach with all provinces and territories and they have all confirmed or are in the process of confirming plans to cost share wage top-ups.
“Premiers from across the country all agree that we need to support our essential workers and I thank the premiers for the continued Team Canada approach. We’re relying on these workers now more than ever now and we will be there to support them,” he said.
Trudeau said how the funding gets distributed and who qualifies will be up to each province and territory.
“For Canadians who are being called to work, to go to work every day. For Canadians who are providing us with essential services so we can continue to keep our families safe and healthy,” said Trudeau.
Trudeau said there are no numbers involved in this wage increase yet because the plan is still ongoing, and that means there are different approaches with different areas. The Government of Canada will be providing up to $3 billion in support.
“The bottom line is this. If you’re risking your health to keep this country moving, and you’re making minimum wage, you deserve a raise.”
