The Conservative MP for Kenora is supporting the passing of the Federal COVID-19 stimulus package.
Eric Melillo says the Bill was passed after all-night negotiations by the Official Opposition, who persuaded the government to back down on a series of undemocratic measures they had attempted to tack onto the previously-agreed upon financial aid package.
Melillo says he’s pleased the government backtracked from an initial attempt to avoid Parliamentary oversight.
He notes the Conservatives worked collaboratively with the other Opposition parties to ensure the stimulus package will be released, while preserving the ability of Parliament to do its important work.
“I think as it stands now, it’s just such an evolving situation, we are just trying to make sure that we are working together, that we are cutting as much as the partisan rhetoric out of it as possible and that we are trying to deliver the strongest support as possible.”
Melillo says one of the highlights is a $300 increase to the Canada Child Benefit and a one-time Goods and Services Tax Credit for low and modest-income families.
He notes other positive measures include $305-million to the Indigenous Community Support Fund, $50-million to women’s shelters and sexual assault centres, and $157.5-million to address homelessness.
To hear more from Eric Melillo, visit the Audio link below.
For the full economic response plan visit http://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan
