By Chris Brown

update from the pm

CERB expanded to include part-time, seasonal workers, more

Apr 15, 2020 | 9:54 AM

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday announced a pay boost for some essential workers and an expansion of the Canada Emergency Response Benefit to get more money into the hands of Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Essential workers making less that $2,500 per month will see their pay increased by the federal government, working with the provinces.

The CERB will be expanded to include people making up to $1,000 per month, seasonal workers who were expecting a job that isn’t coming and those whose EI has run out since Jan. 1.

The prime minister said there will be news for post-secondary students and businesses worried about paying commercial rent in the coming days.

“No matter who you are or where you live, we’re in your corner,” said Trudeau.

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“From time to time we may feel overwhelmed by events. We’re in a situation that may seem unreal and it’s not always easy to deal with. This week the government is launching a new portal to bring together mental health resources and we’ll make them available to Canadians,” Trudeau said from outside Rideau Cottage.

Testing measures continue to be ramped up, the PM said. A New Brunswick company is producing enough to be able to supply testing materials to the entire county and the government has secured enough swabs to meet testing needs across the country.

Trudeau also told Canadians meetings with leaders of other G7 countries continue to ensure a strong and effective global response.