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November 6, 2020 – Federal government update on the COVID-19 pandemic

Here is an update on recent decisions and actions by the Canadian government in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cases on the rise across Canada

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned Canadians that the situation across the country is still serious as the number of people infected with COVID-19 continues to rise, like elsewhere in the world.

He pointed out that warm weather is forecast across the country and Canadians should take advantage it, but with prudence, because with the arrival of winter, everyone will be living in less well ventilated spaces.

“We’re really going to have to be careful. We must do everything possible to move into the winter months in a better situation than we’re in now,” said Mr. Trudeau, hoping that by spring a vaccine will be available.

Unemployment rate down

The prime minister is very pleased that the unemployment rate slightly decreased again in October with the creation of 83,600 jobs in the country. The unemployment rate went from 9% to 8.8%.

Investments in scientific research

The federal government added $155 million to extend the Innovation Assistance Program of the National Research Council of Canada, which has already contributed to preserving 24,000 jobs across the country.

The Canadian government also injected $28 million to support scientific research. “It’s our greatest asset in fighting the virus,” said Mr. Trudeau.

Some 79 research projects in colleges, CEGEPs, universities and polytechnic schools will share these funds for various projects, in particular to study ways of improving physical distancing measures and the virus’s impact on blood vessels.