Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced $82-billion in new measures to help address the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This follows the temporary closure of the Canada-US border to all non-essential travel. Supply chains will be maintained and the new measure does not affect trucking firms.

Prime Minister Trudeau says they want Canadians to stay at home, and not to interact with others unless absolutely necessary. He is encouraging Canadians to work from home, which he acknowledges causes great concern for many.

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced more support for workers and businesses through Canada’s #COVID19 Economic Response Plan. Learn more: https://t.co/Pe39scV7q4

— CanadianPM (@CanadianPM) March 18, 2020

The funding announced today represents more than three per cent of Canada’s GDP. An Emergency Care Benefit is being introduced to ensure that those who are not eligible for EI as they self-isolate or care for someone in self-isolation.

That will provide money every two weeks to those who have to stay home, up to 14 weeks, comparable to EI.

The COVID-19 Emergency Support Benefit is also being introduced for those who cannot apply for EI, like those who are self-employed and must close shop because they are ill.

Small businesses will also provide a temporary wage subsidy. equal to 10 per cent of salary for a period of three months. That, says Trudeau, will help to keep employees on the payroll “during these uncertain times.”

Businesses will be able to defer income taxes owed until August 31, 2020 with no interest or penalties.

Read the full information on the support program via the Government of Canada at this link.