OTTAWA – The Green Party of Canada is calling on the federal government to urgently recall parliament to pass wage subsidy legislation. The $73 billion dollar package must be approved by the House before relief can start flowing to thousands of Canadian businesses.
“Passing this legislation is critical, so if we need to bring a reduced group of MPs back to Ottawa to get it passed, then let’s do it,” said Green parliamentary leader Elizabeth May (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands). "We know that C-14 and the expanded 75 per cent wage subsidy does not meet the needs of all. As Greens, we will press for Guaranteed Livable Income as well as flexibility for workers whose needs are not met by CERB. A huge worry for us is the plight of small businesses who see no lifeline in any existing program."
“Businesses have been shut down for almost a month now. Owners are not only hurting and anxious, but trying to retain employees wherever possible. Green MPs agree that a virtual parliament will be a benefit in the future, but right now we need to move quickly and get this essential relief flowing. The longer it takes, the harder it will be for companies to keep their employees and bounce back once the recovery begins.”
House Speaker Anthony Rota concluded this week that a virtual parliament could take up to a month to roll out.
“We are delighted to see the collaboration between the federal parties and provincial leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Green Party Interim Leader Jo-Ann Roberts. “Now is not the time to resume political bickering. This legislation needs to be passed now. And Greens have agreed to have an MP in the House to make it happen. We acknowledge and appreciate the hard work being done behind the scenes to bring much needed relief to millions of Canadians in this unprecedented time. We are optimistic that this emergency legislation can be rolled out within the next week.”
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