OTTAWA — On June 16, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that the government is extending the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) by eight weeks to ensure Canadians have the help they need as they transition back to work. This extension will make the benefit available to eligible workers for up to a total of 24 weeks.
“The best way to bring the economy back quickly and efficiently is to get Canadians back to work safely. We are seeing some positive progress in the number of people returning to work. However, we also know that Canadians continue to face real challenges in terms of employment, sickness and child care,” says Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion. “We will continue to be there for Canadians in these difficult times. This is why we have extended the benefits available under the CERB by an extra eight weeks — for a total of 24 weeks.”
The government will also make changes to the CERB attestation, which will encourage Canadians receiving the benefit to find employment and consult Job Bank, Canada’s national employment service. Over the next few weeks, the government will monitor international best practices, the economy and the progression of the virus and, if needed, make necessary changes to the program.
“The government will continue to ensure that its programs are working as intended; filling the gaps, supporting Canada’s most vulnerable and leaving no one behind. Extending the CERB allows more breathing room for Canadians as they prepare to return to work,” says Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance. “The government will continue to make the necessary investments to protect the health of Canadians and support the workers that have built a strong Canada.”
