This morning, Prime Minister Trudeau announced the extension of the wage subsidy program. The latest extension will now go until December 2020. The program covers 75 percent of wages, up to a weekly maximum of $847, for workers at eligible companies and non-profits affected by the economic slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This is great news for businesses already using the subsidy and even better news for the businesses, particularly restaurants and bars that just received word on when they can expect to reopen in Stage 3.
Announced this afternoon by Premier Ford, most of the province of Ontario will be moving into Stage 3 as of Friday, July 17th. However, like the rollout of Stage 2, the GTA, amongst a small handful of other regions will have to wait approximately two more weeks (July 31st) until Stage 3.
With Stage 3 we’ll see the reopening of bars, indoor restaurants, movie theatres, performing arts and playgrounds. All will be subject to social distancing and increased health and safety measures, including enhanced cleaning.
Stage 3 will allow indoor gatherings of up to 50 people and outdoor gatherings of up to 100 people, of socially distanced of course.
The Ontario government has put together more than 170 health and safety guidance resources covering a wide range of workplaces.
While restrictions are being lifted, businesses are strongly encouraged to continue to allow people to work remotely wherever possible to contain the spread of COVID-19. Businesses are also encouraged to review and update their COVID-19 safety plan.
