Trudeau announces more flexible rules for claiming COVID-19 emergency benefits

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Ottawa, Apr 15 (Canadian-Media): More flexible rules for claiming the Canada emergency response benefit (CERB) were announced by Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Apr 15 in response to criticisms that too many people, including those working reduced hours, were excluded in the initial rules, media reports said.

Justin Trudeau. Image credit: Official website

Those who earn less than $1,000 a month due to reduced work hours, seasonal workers as well as those who have recently exhausted their employment insurance are eligible for CERB.

In addition, Trudeau announced wage boost for essential workers who make less than $2,500 a month, including those working in long-term care facilities for the elderly.

Details on sums and the delivery of the top-up are to be discussed in a call between Trudeau and the premiers tomorrow. 

Trudeau outlined the expanded eligibility criteria during his daily briefing this morning outside his home at Rideau Cottage and said more news would be announced in the coming days about help for post-secondary students and businesses who are having trouble paying commercial rent.

Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said the criteria to qualify for the top-up and other related details will be worked out collaboratively with the provinces and territories.

Many students whose summer job plans are falling through, and people who are working reduced but regular hours are also eligible to apply.

The NDP, which had called for a universal $2,000 benefit said, "We're happy that people can now earn some money and still apply for the Canadian emergency response benefit," says a media statement from NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh.

Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer was pleased that seasonal workers, people who have exhausted EI benefits, students, owner-operators and those who continue to receive a modest income from part-time work, royalties and honorariums can now apply for CERB.