COVID-19 Update for November 10 2020 – 1:00pm

In a media briefing today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau provided an update on approval of rapid COVID-19 testing, while also announcing funding for Manitoba First Nations and Canadian veterans’ organizations.

In a more general message, he urged premiers and mayors across the country to look at imposing stricter public health measures to slow down the spread of COVID-19. He cautioned that decisions should not be made based on trying to avoid closing businesses, vowing that the federal government will provide the supports necessary to ensure that businesses make it to the other side of the pandemic.

Rapid Testing Approval

Prime Minister Trudeau confirmed that Health Canada has approved a new rapid test, the BD Veritor. The federal government has ordered 7.6 million tests, with the first deliveries expected in the next few weeks.

Manitoba First Nations Support

The PM announced that the Government of Canada is partnering with Manitoba First Nations to provide over $61 million to ensure that these communities have the resources needed to support local public health measures, address food security, and mobilize contact tracers to help affected communities.

Veterans Support

Ahead of Remembrance Day, Trudeau announced creation of a temporary, $20 million Veterans Emergency Support Fund, providing direct funding to veterans’ organizations across the country.

$17 million of this funding will go to the Canadian Legion, ANAVETS, True Patriot Love and Vets Canada. The remaining funding will be allocated based on applications.