COVID-19 Update for October 13 2020 – 1:40pm
Federal Update
In an update today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Abbott’s rapid COVID-19 tests will be delivered “shortly” to the provinces. Health Canada has also taken applications for further vaccine candidates.
The Canada Revenue Agency opened applications for the Canada Recovery Benefit on Monday. The new benefit will pay $500 per week for up to 26 weeks and is open to those who don’t qualify for employment insurance.
The Prime Minister also said that the Canadian Red Cross will deploy support to long-term care facilities soon.
Ontario Update
Premier Doug Ford urged Ontarians to “rally around small businesses” during a regular update today.
Supporting Small Businesses
Ford announced that the provincial government is making $300 million available for affected restaurants and businesses towards fixed costs.
The government is also supporting small business through its Main Street Recovery Plan by:
- Committing to permanently allow licensed restaurants and bars to include alcohol with food as part of a takeout or delivery order before the existing regulation expires;
- Permanently allowing 24/7 deliveries to restaurants;
- Supporting the distribution of local food and food products by increasing the range of products sold at the Ontario Food Terminal;
- Ending outdated and duplicative rules so businesses can focus on their work;
- Modernizing regulations to allow businesses to innovate and meet the challenges of today;
- Providing mental health supports to business owners and employees who are struggling;
- Providing $57 million with federal partners through the Digital Main Street program and creating new Digital Main Street squads to help small businesses grow online; and
- Launching a new portal to assist small businesses to quickly find the supports and information they need.
Food Delivery
Ford also asked the “big three” food delivery services to reduce commission fees and “do the right thing in these difficult times.”