c
Edmonton
airing now
101.7 FM
|
88.1HD2
airing now
8.85 c
Edmonton
airing now
101.7 FM
|
88.1HD2

Liberals to replace CERB with new benefit, simplified EI program at cost of $37B

BY , Aug 20, 2020 7:53 PM - REPORT AN ERROR

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland speaks during a news conference on parliament hill in Ottawa, Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

The federal Liberals are rolling out a $37-billion income-support plan for workers whose earnings have crashed during the pandemic.

The details released today outline what will happen to some four million workers receiving the $500 a week Canada Emergency Response Benefit, which is set to wind down starting next month.

The CERB will be extended another four weeks, and a new benefit that pays $400 a week for up to 26 weeks will replace it for those ineligible for employment insurance.

Anyone eligible for EI will get the same minimum for at least 26 weeks and will need to have worked 120 hours to qualify, well below current EI requirements, since many Canadians have been unable to work to the pandemic.

There will also be $500 a week sickness benefit and caregiving benefit for anyone who has to stay home because they're ill, or because school or daycare is closed.

The three new benefits are expected to cost $22 billion and will be brought in through legislation once the House of Commons returns after being prorogued this week.

Latest News

Share on

Sign up for the newsletter
We'll deliver best of entertainment right into your inbox
We love to hear from our listeners, so feel free to send us message
whatsUp icon
Message us on whatsapp