Marc Serr

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the global economy to a standstill and Canadians are facing serious financial uncertainty and financial strain.

Unprecedented times require a strong response and thats exactly why our government took swift action and focused on delivering immediate and direct help to those in need it.

The emergency economic measures put in place help ensure that Nickel Belt Greater Sudbury residents in dire need have the critical support required to pay for essentials like housing and groceries.

To support individuals and families in critical circumstances our government introduced the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), increased the Canada Child Benefit, and boosted the GST/HST benefit. Weve also extended the individual's income tax filing date and collaborated with the CMHC to work with banks to defer mortgages.

Weve heard firsthand how these much-needed funds have alleviated pressure for families in our communities.

Post-secondary students are also facing challenges. Whether they recently graduated and were ready to enter the workforce or were set to find a summer job those prospects could have been impacted by COVID-19.

We listened to their concerns indicating that many of them did not qualify for Employment Insurance or the new CERB. To support them, our government proposed the Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB), offered expanded opportunities through the Canada Summer Jobs program and suspended repayment and interest on student and apprentice loans among other things.

Weve also implemented additional economic response measures to support individuals:

Whether youre a doctor, nurse, a long-term care worker, a grocery store clerk, a trucker, or in another industry supporting us through this pandemic just know your impact is making a difference, and your service is appreciated.

It is also important to thank each one of you following public health officials recommendations to stay home and practice physical distancing. You are helping flatten the curve and stop the spread of COVID-19.

There is still more work to do and in the near future when our economy begins to reopen it will be crucial to keep following public health recommendations to prioritize the safety of all. In the end, what matters the most is that we continue to pull together, as citizens and communities, to get through the pandemic and keep Canadians healthy and safe.

Each day, we see countless stories of neighbours helping neighbours, people giving back to the community, and random acts of kindness. In our community, we see our seniors clubs, our local not-for-profits, and residents from all corners of the riding making a positive difference.

Weve seen sewing clubs create home-made masks, gardening clubs offer free seeds, and individuals put up messages of hope in their windows to inspire one another.

Although the future may be uncertain, we know much remains to be done.

I will continue to listen to your feedback and bring your voice forward to Ottawa so that our government can continue to support families, communities, and businesses while we weather this storm.

There are challenges still ahead, but we will face them together.

Marc Serr is the Liberal MP for Nickel Belt.

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Serr: Liberal government has, will continue to support Canadians through COVID-19 - Sudbury.com