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November 16, 2020 – Provincial government update on the COVID-19 pandemic

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

Despite the high number of cases, the situation is still under control

Québec Premier François Legault stated that the pandemic is “under control” in the health network even though 1,000 people a day have been infected over the last several weeks, and some 1,200 people a day over the last few days.

The number of hospitalizations is still around 500, which the premier appreciates in a context in which several countries or states are in crisis management due to the size of the second wave.

Announcement on Christmas coming soon

The premier also confirmed that if the situation remains stable, it is possible that Quebecers will be able to bring three households together for a maximum of 10 people during the Holidays.

“We’re looking at this scenario,” said Mr. Legault, specifying that it is too soon to announce the government’s position. “The situation has changed a lot over the last week. Once we have a better picture of what the situation will look like around December 25, we’ll let you know,” said Mr. Legault.

$100 million for homecare

The minister of Health and Social Services, Christian Dubé, announced Sunday, along with his colleague, Marguerite Blais, the minister responsible for Seniors and Informal Caregivers, the recurring addition of $100 million to the budget for home support services.

All clienteles will benefit from these services, namely, seniors, people with physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorder, people with chronic diseases and those requiring palliative and end-of-life care at home. This sum will also be used to meet the short-term needs of paediatric, adult or senior patients following hospitalization.

Pay increase

Ministers Dubé and Blais also announced that $25 million will be shared between caregivers and home care workers in order to increase their pay.

The wages of these workers, who are employed by social economy enterprises, will increase by $1.75 per hour, from $14.25 to $16 per hour.