Canada to spend $192 million toward coronavirus vaccine development

Canada to spend $192 million toward coronavirus vaccine development
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Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that the federal government is planning to invest $192 million toward vaccine development and production.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that the federal government is planning to invest $192 million toward vaccine development and production.

In an announcement made on Monday morning, the Prime Minister said the money will be distributed to a number of different companies and universities in the drive to find a way to stop the illness’s spread.

“We are investing in a long-term solution to COVID-19 right here at home,” said Trudeau in his address.

Trudeau said the government will be signing agreements with companies in Vancouver and Quebec for vaccine development, testing, and production. He also revealed an agreement with the University of Saskatchewan for conducting testing and clinical trials.

“We have to remember the vaccines won’t be ready overnight, they will take months to develop and test so while that’s happening, we need to work to mitigate the impacts of this virus,” Trudeau said in his announcement.

In reference to mitigation strategies, Trudeau pointed to the use of Canadian software to help track the disease. He also highlighted a call to action, sent out by the federal government, for every post-secondary institution in order to use their labs, resources, and equipment. Trudeau is looking at working with institutions that have 3D printers to create medical supplies.

During his address, the Prime Minister stressed his concern about citizens not taking social distancing practices seriously, after handfuls of pictures surfaced online from across the country of large public gatherings.

“We’ve all seen the pictures online of people who think they are invincible. Well you’re not. Enough is enough. Go home and stay home. This is what we all need to be doing and we’re going to make sure this happens whether by educating people more on the risks or by enforcing the rules,” Trudeau said sternly during his press conference.

There is an advertisement campaign rolling out across the country beginning Monday in order to ensure the message on social distancing reaches everyone, according to Trudeau.

“Not having heard this message won’t be an excuse. We are reaching everyone. Listening is your duty and staying home is your way to serve,” added Trudeau.

In regards to a Sunday night announcement from the Canadian Olympic Committee that our athletes would be pulling out of the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, Trudeau backed the decision.

Trudeau said the move is heartbreaking for athletes, coaches, staff and fans, but feels it’s the right call in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Other highlights of Trudeau’s speech included news the House of Commons would reconvene tomorrow in order to agree on details of the $82 billion relief package revealed last week, an update on repatriation flights bringing Canadians home from around the world and the plan for him to connect with all the premiers later today.

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