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Throughout the pandemic, the Government of Canada has always put the health and well-being of Canadians first. Beginning last spring, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) has helped almost 9 million Canadians and their families make ends meet and stay safe. While many Canadians have been able to go back to work safely, there continue to be many who are unable to find work or are underemployed due to the ongoing public health crisis. This fall, as the Government transitions from the CERB to a flexible and more accessible Employment Insurance (EI) program, it is also continuing to support workers in need who do not qualify for EI, and providing new support that will allow Canadians to stay home when they are sick.
Today, the COVID-19 Response Measures Act (formerly Bill C-4) received Royal Assent. This legislation creates three new temporary recovery benefits to support Canadians who are unable to work for reasons related to COVID-19. These benefits will be in place for one year beginning September 27, 2020, as we work to build back a stronger, more resilient economy.