More money is coming for essential workers who are fighting Covid-19 on Canada’s frontlines.
A new wage top-up coming for essential workers who make $2,500 or less per month is an agreement between the Provinces and the Federal government.
Today Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it’s a Team Canada approach.
“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,” said Trudeau.
Who qualifies for the top-up will be up to each province.
In Ontario, it will amount to about $4 more per hour for workers who receive it.
Ontario front line workers will also get bonus payments of $250 per month if they work more than 100 hours per month.
Trudeau didn’t give specifics on how much the new program will cost in total – around four billion will come from the Feds, (roughly three quarters of the amount needed), with the remaining quarter to come from provincial governments.
We’re working with the provinces and territories to make sure everyone has what they need to get through these tough times. And today, I’m announcing new support for essential workers across the country. Watch my update live for more info: https://t.co/SWaQlgupRq
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) May 7, 2020
To watch Trudeau’s full May 7th address, see below.
https://www.cpac.ca/en/direct/cpac2/452608/pm-justin-trudeau-provides-update-on-federal-response-to-covid-19-27/