PM Trudeau announces $100 million for essential food; talks tough over 3M mask dispute

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced 100 million dollars to make sure Canada’s most vulnerable residents are able to get food.

The funding will go to organizations like Food Banks Canada and the Salvation Army which have seen demand soar during the COVID outbreak.

Trudeau also announced a deal with Amazon Canada for the distribution of medical equipment like ventilators, test kits and masks through the provinces and territories.

In response to media questions, the PM said it would be a mistake for the U-S to stop 3M from exporting medical masks to Canada, noting the flow of goods and services benefits both countries.

“There are thousands of nurses who live in Windsor who work in Detroit every single day and Americans depend on them. There are medical products and other essential goods that move across the border from both directions and it would be a mistake for both our countries to limit access to goods and essential personnel. That is what we are pointing out to the U.S. administration,” said Trudeau.

3M has been asked by the Trump administration not to supply N95 respirators to Canada, wanting to keep them for the U-S supply.

Trudeau also talked about his meeting with the premiers Thursday night, saying they discussed data sharing and modules which he said will be released soon.

The prime minister will take part in a video conference with Canada’s chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam Sunday aimed at kids and young people.