The Prime Minister is promising his government will work with Air Canada as it prepares to lay off more than half its workers next month.
In his daily update in Ottawa, Justin Trudeau indicated they will talk with the company and other airlines to determine the best way to get through the COVID-19 crisis.
“We know that airlines are incredibly hard-hit by this pandemic, and we will be there to work with them to see how best we can help,” Trudeau said.
Trudeau didn’t commit to change the wage subsidy to help out larger businesses like Air Canada, but said they will ensure workers are protected.
Trudeau also announced researchers on the east coast will play a part in finding the cure for COVID-19.
The first Canadian clinical trials for a COVID-19 vaccine will begin at Halifax’s Dalhousie University, Trudeau said on Saturday.
“If these vaccine trials are successful, we can produce and distribute it here at home,” he said. “Research and development take time, and must be done right – but this is encouraging news.”
Trudeau also announced an increase to the Canadian Child Benefit, in addition to the $300 that will be added to the May payment.
Starting in July, the monthly payments will increase once again to reflect rises to the cost of living.
“As the cost of your groceries go up, so will the benefit,” Trudeau said.
Saturday’s media briefing also included an announcement of $100 million in funding for the Canadian Red Cross.
“Like many organizations, the Red Cross is facing an increased demand for its services at a time when they are getting fewer volunteers, and receiving less in donations,” the Prime Minister said.
