In a meeting on Wednesday, the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction confirmed that employment services and supports are considered an essential service and that it is the ministry's priority that service providers remain viable. Members at our weekly virtual discussion applauded the Minister and public servants for their response and leadership. I have shared this positive feedback and thanks on behalf of our members involved with ADM Chris Brown.
ASPECT continues our advocacy work by staying in contact with other funders to ensure that service providers have the information they need.
The federal government announced this morning enhanced employment supports to keep people employed as well as no-interest (for the first year) bank loans up to $40,000 in which under particular circumstances, $10,000 can be forgiven. The devil is in the details which are expected on Monday. The hope is that those laid off earlier this month will be rehired, removing the strain put upon the employment insurance system.
ASPECT members are integral in helping clients and employers through this crisis as well as playing a crucial role in helping the economy rebound in the coming months. Not only are we workers and employers, but we also provide services for workers and employers. It's a tricky situation to be in, but with the essential service designation and the enhanced supports, I am optimistic about our future.
Janet Morris-Reade
ASPECT CEO |
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