There’s a huge sense of relief for Canadians relying on federal assistance through the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy during COVID-19.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the length of the program is extended by three months to the end of August.
“Going forward we need to make sure this program keeps working for people. That it keeps encouraging employers to re-hire staff, and expand where possible,” says Trudeau.
The prime minister adds they’ll look at some adjustments, including expanding eligibility requirements. He also says the money will keep going out as quickly as possible, instead of taking time to ensure the prevention of fraud.
“The problem with the second approach is it would have been months before delivering to the well over 7-million Canadians who needed it,” points out the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister adds once they find out who may defraud the system, the government will go after them.
The 75% wage subsidy was introduced in March to assist employers as they look to reopen their business.
