Statement on COVID-19 Pandemic

For Immediate Release

Perth—Wellington, ON – John Nater, Member of Parliament for Perth—Wellington issued the following statement on the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic:

“This past month has been very difficult and challenging for all Canadians. We fear for our personal health, we are separated from our loved ones, many are facing significant financial difficulties, and many are experiencing immense personal stress.

I want to commend and thank all those who are working relentlessly to provide essential services, those who have volunteered their time and resources to fight the pandemic, and most importantly, our brave health care providers.

The Government of Canada has created several programs in an effort to provide financial assistance for those who need it during this challenging time. My staff and I are working diligently to assist constituents in accessing them.

However, there remain gaps in the support programs announced and many individuals and businesses have found these programs to be inadequate. Over the coming days, I will be working to try to make sure the individuals and businesses not eligible for these programs do not fall through the cracks.

Canadians who have stopped working because of COVID-19 can now apply for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) which will provide temporary income support for up to 16 weeks.

Applications are available online at: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/cerb-application.html

On Saturday April 11, I had the honour of participating in an emergency sitting of the House of Commons.

I questioned the Deputy Prime Minister, the Minister of Finance, and the Minister of Employment regarding actions the Government is taking to protect food processing, deliver assistance for the arts and tourism sectors, release updated epidemiological models, provide more support for seniors, and expand access to the CERB.

You can view my questions here: https://www.johnnater.ca/news-media/video-gallery/

 

As your Member of Parliament, I remain committed to working across party lines to help improve the Government’s response to the Pandemic.

 

Lastly, I encourage everyone in Perth—Wellington to stay safe and stay informed. The Public Health Agency of Canada is the best place for reliable information on the federal response to COVID-19. Information can be found online at canada.ca/coronavirus.

Please take care of yourselves and those around you. Do not hesitate to contact me if there is anything I can do.”

Perth Office: 519-273-1400
Wellington Office: 519-338-3589
Toll Free Phone: 1-866-303-1400
E-Mail: john.nater@parl.gc.ca
Website: johnnater.ca