‘Staying home is your way to serve your country:’ Trudeau presses need to follow health orders

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau released more details of his government’s response to Covid-19, which he called “the largest economic program in Canada’s history.”

Trudeau said at his national address Wednesday the three point plan will protect jobs, help people laid off and support businesses.

He said the 75 per cent Emergency Wage Subsidy will be available to all businesses that are not publicly-funded that have seen at least a 30 per cent decline in gross revenues.

“That includes everything from bars and restaurants charities and non-profits,” said Trudeau.

Applications will open soon through the Canada Revenue Agency.

Employers are asked to provide the other 25 per cent of wages.

There is also loans of up to $40,000 for businesses, and the Canada Emergency Response Benefit.

“On that front I have some good news to share,” stated Trudeau.

People can start applying for the emergency response benefit on April 6 at canada.ca and you will have the choice to receive it by mail or direct deposit.

You should receive your payment within three to five days by deposit or within 10 days by mail.

If you are receiving the wage subsidy, you can not receive the response benefit as well.

“This is the largest economic program in Canada’s history, so I have asked the house leader and the deputy minister to reach out to the other parties about bringing back Parliament. This must be a Team Canada effort,” said Trudeau.

The PM also reminded Canadians to “answer the call of duty,” to follow the public health orders, and to stay home.

“Staying home is your way to serve,” said Trudeau.”So be smart about what you do and the choice you make. That is how you will serve your country and we will all serve each other.”