Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the federal government will be there with supports for those who need it as pandemic restrictions shut down businesses and idle workers.
The federal government is temporarily expanding eligibility for two programs so that wage and rent support will be available to businesses that see capacity restricted by 50 per cent or more.
Trudeau says he knows that everyone is tired and just wants the pandemic to go away, but stresses that everyone needs to be careful over the holidays.
Three members of Trudeau’s staff and three members of his security detail have tested positive for COVID-19.
Also, the Ontario government says businesses affected by public health restrictions that took effect on Sunday can apply for rebates on property taxes and energy costs.
The Opposition N-D-P calls the government’s plan insulting, and says some small businesses that desperately need help may be gone by the time applications open in mid-January