The Canada Emergency Response Benefit now includes workers earning $1,000 or less a month, out of a seasonal job, or have run out recently of their EI benefits.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the federal government is coordinating with provinces to top up salaries for essential workers like the staff at long term care facilities who may be earning less than $2,500 a month.
Trudeau said further announcements are coming for post-secondary students and businesses unable to pay commercial rent.
He also confirmed that Quebec has sent a second request for aid from the Canadian Armed Forces which Canada will be meeting.
Trudeau also announced New Brunswick based LuminUltra is ramping production to better supply Canada with COVID-19 test chemicals.
**Written by Mo Fahim