Prime Minister Justin Trudeau continues to roll out new policies for Canadians amid the coronavirus pandemic.
On Tuesday morning, Trudeau made another national address from his home in Ottawa, updating Canadians on the federal government’s latest plan. One of the newly announced policies is the creation of an emergency loan of up to $5,000, which Canadians abroad can apply for in order to get themselves home.
The fund will be established through Global Affairs and any Canadian abroad in need of assistance can call 1-613-996-8885 or email [email protected].
Trudeau estimated that there are roughly 3 million Canadians outside of our border at any given time and emphasized that the government will do its best to bring everyone home, although he believes not everyone will make it.
Along with the announcement of the emergency loans, Trudeau said that Parliament will likely sit again to pass emergency measures for the economy amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this month, it was agreed by all parties that parliament would suspend operations until April 20.
Some moves will require legislative approval, and Trudeau said a short limited sitting is needed to get it.
The Prime Minister also added a major announcement on supporting the economy would be coming tomorrow and the government is planning possible changes to upcoming tax deadlines.
According to Trudeau, the Liberal cabinet will be meeting today to help determine a plan of action on a few policies including whether it will be necessary to invoke the Emergency Measures Act.
“We’re looking at all sorts of ways of helping Canadians, and this is part of what we’re looking at,” Trudeau said. “We’ll have an announcement tomorrow most likely around that.”
Trudeau noted during his address that Parks Canada will be suspending visitor services at all of its national parks and historic sites as well.
Earlier in the day, Ontario declared a state of emergency due to COVID-19, however, Trudeau downplayed that idea emphasizing instead that the government is looking at other ways to provide needed help for Canadians.
Despite not ready to declare a state of emergency, Trudeau did indicate this could go on for quite some time.
“We don’t know how long this is going to take, whether it takes weeks or months, but we know we will be there to support each other every step of the way,” the PM said.
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