43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée22 juin 2021432-00961432-00961 (Affaires et commerce)ChrisLewisEssexConservateurON13 mai 202122 juin 20213 mai 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communesWHEREAS
  • Plus de 12 000 conseillers en voyage indépendants du Canada, lesquels sont les propriétaires uniques de petites entreprises, n’ont pas touché de revenu depuis un an en raison des restrictions de voyages liées à la COVID 19 imposées par le gouvernement.
  • 100 % des revenus des conseillers en voyage viennent des commissions versées par les fournisseurs de voyages. Le système de paiement en différé est tel qu’il faut entre cinq à onze mois pour que les conseillers soient payés pour les réservations de voyage effectuées au nom de leurs clients.
  • La Prestation canadienne de la relance économique (PCRE) est l’unique soutien dont disposent la plupart des conseillers en voyages indépendants qui sont toujours actifs au sein de leurs entreprises, mais qui ne peuvent toucher de revenus.
Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canda, prions la Chambre des communes de:
  • Prolonger, pour les conseillers en voyage, la période de validité de la Prestation canadienne de la relance économique pour une période de six mois à partir de la date de levée de toutes les restrictions de voyage
  • Conserver la Prestation canadienne de la relance économique au montant actuel (2 000 $ par mois) pour les secteurs les plus touchés par la COVID, y compris les conseillers en voyage
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada recognizes that many Canadians continue to face financial impacts as a result of the ongoing pandemic. During these unprecedented times, the Government of Canada has focused on putting in place measures to help as many Canadians as possible in a timely manner.The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) was an important and necessary temporary response to support Canadian workers, including the self-employed, who stopped working due to COVID-19. The CERB provided a weekly amount of $500 for up to 28 weeks, between March 15, 2020 and October 3, 2020. As part of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, the Government has transitioned from the CERB to a simplified Employment Insurance (EI) program, effective September 27, 2020, to provide income support to eligible workers who remain unable to work. These measures include, allowing workers to qualify for EI one-time with 120 hours of work, introducing a minimum benefit rate of $500 per week (or $300 for extended parental benefits), providing a maximum entitlement of up to 50 weeks of regular benefits, and temporarily waiving the waiting period for new EI claims established between January 31, 2021 and September 25, 2021.The Government of Canada also introduced a suite of three benefits to support economic recovery and workers who are unable to work due to COVID-19. These three benefits are delivered by the Canada Revenue Agency and are available from September 27, 2020 to September 25, 2021: the Canada Recovery Benefit, the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit, and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit.The Canada Recovery Benefit gives income support to workers ineligible for EI who, for reasons related to COVID-19, are not employed or self-employed or are working but had their earnings reduced by at least 50 percent. In February 2021, the Government announced changes to the Canada Recovery Benefit that would increase the number of weeks available by 12 weeks extending the maximum duration of benefits from 26 weeks to up to 38 weeks.  To continue to support workers through a transition away from emergency income supports and position Canadians for the recovery, the Government has proposed in Budget 2021 to provide up to 12 additional weeks of Canada Recovery Benefit to a maximum of 50 weeks. The first four of these additional 12 weeks will be paid at $500 per week. As the economy reopens over the coming months, the Government intends that the remaining 8 weeks of this extension will be paid at a lower amount of $300 per week claimed. All new Canada Recovery Benefit claimants after July 17, 2021 would also receive the $300 per week benefit, available up until September 25, 2021.The trajectory of the pandemic and economic recovery remain uncertain. To ensure flexibility as the pandemic progresses, Budget 2021 proposes legislative amendments to provide authority for additional potential extensions of the Canada Recovery Benefit and its associated suite of sickness and caregiving benefits, until no later than November 20, 2021, should they be needed.
Agences de voyagesCOVID-19PandémiesPrestation canadienne de la relance économique
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée21 juin 2021432-00933432-00933 (Santé)PaulManlyNanaimo—LadysmithParti vertBC7 mai 202121 juin 20214 mars 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communes réunie en Parlement ATTENDU QUE :
  • La majorité des communications et des mesures préconisées par les responsables de la santé relativement à la COVID-19 concerne l’éloignement physique, le port du masque, la désinfection des mains, la recherche des contacts et la vaccination;
  • les produits naturels essentiels et éprouvés pour le système immunitaire et les pratiques de santé holistique ont reçu moins d’attention quant à leur rôle en matière de soins de santé préventifs;
  • une approche holistique et complémentaire en matière de santé serait plus abordable pour les contribuables que le traitement des maladies;
  • de nombreux Canadiens investissent déjà dans des stratégies d’immunité naturelle, d’autogestion proactive de la santé et de prévention;
  • manger des légumes frais, faire de l’exercice, gérer le stress, boire de l’eau, marcher à l’air frais et au soleil et bien dormir sont des mesures simples et rentables pour améliorer la fonction immunitaire et le bien-être global;
  • il a été démontré que la vitamine D réduit substantiellement les symptômes de la COVID-19;
  • de nombreux Canadiens ont une carence en vitamine D pendant l’hiver, en plus de devoir s’isoler chez eux pour des raisons de sécurité, sans prendre de suppléments;
  • d’autres vitamines et nutriments essentiels au fonctionnement optimal du système immunitaire et à la santé globale, comme la vitamine C, le zinc, le sélénium et les extraits de plantes, montrent des résultats prometteurs dans la prévention de la COVID-19;
  • une plus grande attention et une meilleure sensibilisation à l’égard des solutions de santé naturelles aideraient à optimiser le fonctionnement du système immunitaire des Canadiens, ce qui améliorerait leur qualité de vie et leur productivité;
PAR CONSÉQUENT, nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, demandons respectueusement que le gouvernement du Canada : 1) sensibilise et autonomise les Canadiens à l’égard des approches holistiques afin d’optimiser et de maintenir leur immunité naturelle et leur bien-être. 2) Couvre les pratiques pour le maintien de la santé et les soins de bien-être en vertu de la Loi canadienne sur la santé, y compris les soins de chiropraxie, la massothérapie, l’acupuncture et la médecine homéopathique et naturopathique. 3) Appuie, encourage et améliore l’accès des Canadiens aux services de santé holistique et aux produits naturels. 4) Incorpore les mesures et les pratiques de renforcement du système immunitaire dans les messages sur la prévention de la COVID-19.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is responsible for establishing and administering legislation and regulations to ensure the safety, efficacy and quality of natural health products sold in Canada. Health Canada recognizes that, for many Canadians, natural health products are an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including helping to maintain and support immune function.Natural health products in Canada (such as vitamin and mineral supplements and herbal products) are regulated under the Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR), which were created to differentiate natural health products from prescription and non-prescription drugs, which are regulated under the Food and Drug Regulations.Natural health products are generally low-risk products meant to be used by individuals for minor, non-serious conditions. However, low-risk does not mean no risk. That is why Health Canada reviews the safety, efficacy and quality of natural health products prior to their entry on the Canadian market, in accordance with the NHPR and will take appropriate action. Health Canada has not authorized an application for a product containing Vitamin D with claims to reduce symptoms associated with COVID-19. Claims related to prevention of COVID-19 infection or symptomatic treatment of COVID-19 are considered higher risk and would require a high degree of supporting scientific evidence prior to approval for this use.It may be of interest to note that the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development recently completed audit report of Health Canada’s Natural Health Products Program. A number of recommendations were made as a result, all of which Health Canada agrees with.Although the federal government plays a crucial role in supporting health care by providing funding to the provinces and territories, the provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services. This includes determining which services to cover under their respective health care insurance plans. Under the Canada Health Act, a province or territory must provide coverage for medically necessary hospital and physician services (i.e., insured health services, including access to holistic health services) to their eligible residents. Wellness care and practices aimed at sustaining health, including chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and homeopathic and naturopathic medicines, are part of a range of additional services and benefits, which are outside the scope of the Act, and may be provided at provincial and territorial discretion, on their own terms and conditions. 
COVID-19PandémiesProduits de santé naturelsSanté publique
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée18 juin 2021432-00913432-00913 (Affaires et commerce)ChrisLewisEssexConservateurON5 mai 202118 juin 202127 avril 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communesATTENDU QUE :
  • plus de 24 000 conseillers en voyages au Canada n’ont obtenu aucun revenu depuis un an puisque le gouvernement a imposé des restrictions aux déplacements liés à la COVID;
  • les transporteurs aériens et leurs agences de voyages affiliées demandent à ces conseillers de rembourser les commissions qu’ils ont gagnées à la fin de 2019 et au début de 2020 sur les voyages de leurs clients qui ont été annulés en raison desdites restrictions concernant les déplacements, ce qui est connu sous le nom de « rappel des commissions » ou « récupération des commissions ».
Nous soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions la Chambre des communes de veiller à ce que :
  • toute aide financière accordée aux transporteurs aériens et à leurs agences de voyages affiliées soit conditionnelle à la protection des commissions des conseillers en voyages;
  • les commissions déjà récupérées par les transporteurs aériens et leurs agences de voyages affiliées soient remboursées aux conseillers en voyages en temps opportun.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraTransport Canada has been working with a range of air industry participants, the organizations that represent them, and other government departments to analyze the current situation and develop appropriate options to support Canada’s air transport sector generally.The Government of Canada recognizes that travel agencies and their agents play a vital role in the air travel system, both in terms of assisting Canadians wanting to explore the world beyond our borders and welcoming tourists to Canada and by virtue of the latter play a critical role in supporting jobs and businesses. On November 8, 2020, the Government of Canada announced it would develop a package of assistance for Canada’s airlines to ensure the existence of a robust air transport sector that connects Canadian communities. Agreements have now been reached with Air Canada, and Transat, A.T. based on repayable instruments to protect taxpayers’ money. Any assistance to air carriers comes with strict conditions to protect Canadians and the public interest. All carriers will be required to provide refunds for tickets cancelled due to the pandemic, and Air Canada must restore services to Canadian communities where these were cut due to the pandemic.Additionally, as part of the Air Canada and Transat agreements, travel agencies and their agents, most of which are small businesses, owned and operated by women, and significantly affected by the pandemic, may assist in the processing of refunds for tickets the travel agents sold but will not have their sales commissions recalled on refunded fares by Air Canada and Transat. The government is currently negotiating financial packages with other Canadian carriers to achieve similar outcomes. 
Agences de voyagesCompagnies aériennesCOVID-19PandémiesRemboursement
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée14 juin 2021432-00890432-00890 (Travail et emploi)ChrisLewisEssexConservateurON29 avril 202114 juin 202115 avril 2021Pétition aux ministres de la Couronne, l’honorable ministre de la Santé et l’honorable ministre de la Sécurité publique Nous, soussignés, des citoyens de Windsor-Essex et du reste du Canada, désirons porter à l’attention de la Chambre des communes ce qui suit :Windsor-Essex abrite différentes industries, dont un grand nombre d’industries manufacturières (FEO et chaînes d’approvisionnement) ainsi que deux grands secteurs manufacturiers de pointe, soit les fabricants d’outillage, de matrices et de moules, et les entreprises de mesure et d’automatisation. Toutes ces entreprises sont tributaires d’un vaste bassin de clients aux États-Unis et elles constituent la pierre angulaire de toute la chaîne de fabrication en raison des produits et services novateurs et de pointe qu’elles offrent.Les divers secteurs manufacturiers en Ontario et à Windsor-Essex :
  • ont un PIB combiné1 de 30,8 milliards de dollars (véhicules automobiles : 6,5 G$; pièces d’automobile : 8,9 G$; aérospatiale : 8,2 G$ et automatisation (incluant l’outillage) : 7,2 G$
  • Le secteur manufacturier (FEO et chaînes d’approvisionnement) représente 188 000 emplois2,
  • Ensemble, les fabricants d’outillage, de matrices et de moules et les entreprises d’instruments de jaugeage et d’automatisation fournissent plus de 58 000 emplois rémunérateurs ou destinés à la classe moyenne au Canada, et plus de 80 % de leurs produits et services sont exportés vers les États Unis et sont actuellement compromis.
  • Windsor-Essex représente3 3,3 G$ du PIB à elle seule, ce qui comprend plus de 1 000 fabricants, plus de 90 fabricants d’automobiles et de pièces d’automobile, dont 2 FEO et plus de 250 fabricants d’outillage, de matrices et de moules, et d’instruments de jaugeage. Cela n’inclut pas les entreprises qui offrent des services d’approvisionnement à ces fabricants.
  • Par contre, le secteur englobe les milliers de professionnels, techniciens et propriétaires d’entreprises qui détiennent un visa de travail aux États-Unis et qui représentent plus de 1 G$ du PIB annuel grâce aux exportations vers les États-Unis.
  • Les cas de COVID-19 rapportés par la Commission de la sécurité professionnelle et de l’assurance contre les accidents du travail de l’Ontario dans le secteur manufacturier ne correspondent qu’à 0,065 %4 des cas dans les milieux de travail de l’Ontario.
On présume que ce taux est le même dans les collectivités du Canada à la frontière des États-Unis qui sont dotées d’autres industries à divers degrés. Ces industries dépendent de l’accès au marché américain tant pour les services directs qu’indirects, incluant : le développement d’entreprises, la conception, le génie, l’approvisionnement, les services techniques et les services aux entreprises, etc.En 2020, le gouvernement de l’Ontario a qualifié d’« essentielle » l’industrie diversifiée de Windsor-Essex aux termes des articles 1 et 23 du Règl. de l’Ont. 82/20 (Loi sur la protection civile et la gestion des situations d’urgence) et l’a soustraite à l’interdiction de franchir les postes frontaliers terrestres pour se rendre aux États-Unis.Ces organismes offrant des services à d’autres entreprises expédient des biens d’équipement et des technologies aux États-Unis, mais ils doivent également dépêcher du personnel auprès de clients américains pour les ventes et les services de conception, ainsi que pour leur prêter un soutien technique. Il s’agit également de professionnels, de techniciens et de propriétaires d’entreprise. Pour Windsor-Essex seulement, cela représente de 300 à 500 employés d’industrie et leurs clients américains, sans compter les milliers de citoyens canadiens qui se rendent aux États-Unis, fréquemment ou non, pour remplir leurs obligations d’emploi.Les négociations contractuelles dans ce secteur vital de l’économie reposent sur des rencontres organisées pour les clients des États-Unis dans nos bureaux canadiens pour les ventes, la conception et l’acceptation de l’équipement. Les obligations contractuelles entre entités canadiennes et entités américaines ne sont pas différentes de celles qui existent pour les citoyens qui résident au Canada et qui ont des obligations d’emploi à remplir aux États-Unis; par conséquent, les mêmes droits et privilèges devraient s’appliquer à ces travailleurs et entreprises assujettis aux contrats.L’interdiction d’entrée et l’application incohérente de règles d’isolement/quarantaine à la frontière entraînent des pertes de revenus de l’ordre de millions de dollars pour les industries en question; elles se répercutent négativement sur les possibilités d’affaires, les emplois, la croissance économique et les taxes au Canada.NOUS, À WINDSOR-ESSEX :« FABRIQUONS CE QUI SERT À FABRIQUER DU MATÉRIEL » « SOMMES FIERS DE PRENDRE SOIN DE NOUS »1 Réseau Trillium de l’Ontario (14 avril 2020) 2 https://www.unifor.org/en/canadas-auto-industry-fast-facts-2020-13 Windsor Essex Economic Development Corp (WEEDC) : http://choosewindsoressex.com/manufacturin 4 Commission de la sécurité professionnelle et de l’assurance contre les accidents du travail de l’Ontario : https://www.wsib.ca/frPAR CONSÉQUENT, les pétitionnaires demandent à l’honorable ministre de la Santé et à l’honorable ministre de la Sécurité publique avec le soutien unanime du gouvernement de :1) permettre aux personnes qui ont légalement accès aux États-Unis et au Canada (visa avec invitation ou obligation contractuelle du client) pour les besoins d’affaires essentiels seulement et qui offrent des services jugés « essentiels » aux termes de mesures législatives provinciales (en Ontario : art. 1 et 23 du Règl. de l’Ont. 82/20 (Loi sur la protection civile et la gestion des situations d’urgence)) de :
  • a) Franchir n’importe quel point d’entrée à n’importe quelle fréquence (régulière ou occasionnelle) tout en remplissant l’une ou l’autre des conditions b) à h). b)
  • b) Être en mesure de rentrer au Canada sur présentation d’un certificat de vaccination valide délivré par Santé Canada, peu importe que le vaccin ait été administré au Canada ou aux États Unis.
  • c) Accepter de se conformer aux mesures de prévention de Santé Canada et de se soumettre à un test de dépistage rapide approuvé
  • i. Administré au point d’entrée canadien ou
  • ii. Auto-administré avant de franchir le point d’entrée
  • d) Se surveiller soi-même, être exonéré de quarantaine et continuer de respecter les mesures (isolement, masque, distanciation sociale, etc.) établies par Santé Canada ou selon les directives des services de santé provinciaux et locaux à l’intention des travailleurs essentiels
  • i. Sur présentation d’un certificat de vaccination valide ou
  • ii. Sur présentation d’un résultat négatif de test de dépistage rapide
  • e) Observer une quarantaine selon un plan adéquat (conformément aux mesures actuelles de l’Agence de la santé publique du Canada (ASPC), Santé Canada)
  • i. Sur présentation d’un résultat positif à un test de dépistage rapide et
  • ii. Se soumettre à un essai par RCP immédiat confirmant le résultat au moment de la rentrée
  • iii. Sur présentation d’un résultat positif à un essai par RCP
  • f) Le Canada devrait assumer les frais associés à la vaccination, aux tests et aux mesures de quarantaine (accès immédiat à la Prestation canadienne de maladie pour la relance économique (PCMRE))
  • g) Autoriser le voyage de retour au Canada et la rentrée au Canada après une quarantaine de 14 jours.
  • h) Dans le cas de litiges entre un voyage présumé essentiel et l’Agence des services frontaliers du Canada (ASFC) au sujet des conditions susmentionnées, l’ASFC devrait accorder au voyageur jugé essentiel la possibilité d’en appeler et devrait le diriger vers un poste secondaire où l’ASPC prendra une décision.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency PreparednessSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): JOËL LIGHTBOUND, M.P.Even before COVID-19 was declared to be a global pandemic, our government had taken strong measures to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19 in Canada, which have continued to evolve since that time. Being considered an “essential worker” or “essential employee” in the province or municipality in which the person is seeking to enter, or by the individual’s workplace, does not automatically mean the person is exempt from pre-arrival testing or quarantine under the federal border measures.Enhanced border measures, such as pre-arrival testing and quarantine requirements, are explicitly stated within the OIC, and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) border services officers (BSOs) do not have the discretion to exempt travellers, who otherwise do not meet the exemptions, from these requirements based on an assumed level of risk or any other factor. BSOs make decisions regarding traveller admissibility and eligibility based on the information available to them at time of processing. The onus is on the traveller to demonstrate that they meet the requirements for entry into Canada, including whether or not an exemption to public health measures may be applicable.Every day, BSOs make over 35,000 decisions across the country and those decisions are made based on all laws and information made available to them at the time of entry. To facilitate decision making, the CBSA provides support to frontline BSOs through operational guideline bulletins, 7/24 live support access and regular case reviews. In addition, the CBSA conducts detailed technical briefings prior to the implementation of new or amended OICs to support the accurate implementation of new provisions and ensure clarity for frontline employees. The CBSA has also established a process to monitor decisions made by BSOs as they relate to the application of OICs for essential service providers and will continue to make adjustments or review the CBSA operational guidance to BSOs, as required. Should the CBSA discover that an incorrect assessment at the border has been made, it works with the Public Health Agency of Canada to rectify the situation.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) provides $500 per week for a maximum of four weeks to enable workers to stay home if they are unable to work at least 50% of their scheduled work week because they are sick or need to self-isolate due to COVID-19, or have underlying conditions, or are undergoing treatments or have contracted other sicknesses that make them more susceptible to COVID-19. People are not eligible to receive the CRSB when they have to miss work to get a COVID-19 vaccine.Recently, the Government of Canada has increased the number of weeks available for the recovery benefits. This includes an increase in the number of weeks available under the CRSB from 2 to 4 weeks.In addition, in March 2021, the Government of Canada added a new eligibility condition so that those who travel internationally and are required to quarantine or isolate under any order made under the Quarantine Act upon their return to Canada will not be eligible to receive the CRSB, the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit or the Canada Recovery Benefit during the period of their quarantine or isolation.However, exemptions are provided for those travelling to receive necessary medical treatment or to accompany someone who is travelling to receive necessary medical treatment and requires assistance. An exemption is also provided to those who need to isolate upon their return to Canada but would otherwise have been exempt from quarantine (such as a truck driver or a worker who regularly crosses the border for work).
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe goal of Canada’s COVID-19 pandemic response is to prevent serious illness and death while minimizing societal disruption. Border measures taken under the Quarantine Act are focused on reducing the introduction and further spread of COVID-19 and its variants in Canada by decreasing the risk of importing cases from outside the country.Since March 25, 2020, border measures have included requirements for non-exempt travellers to quarantine (if asymptomatic) or to isolate (if symptomatic) for a 14-day period and monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19, or to quarantine in a designated quarantine facility and undergo health assessments, depending on certain factors. Since February 14, 2021, non-exempt travellers have been required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 molecular test taken within 72 hours of arrival (or proof of a positive COVID-19 molecular test, taken at least 14 days and no more than 90 days before arrival). Furthermore, since February 22, 2021, non-exempt travellers have been subject to additional requirements for on-arrival and post-arrival testing. For travellers arriving by air, a stay in government-authorized accommodation pending receipt of a negative result from their on-arrival test has also been in effect since February 22, 2021.On June 9, 2021, the Government of Canada announced plans to begin easing some border measures through a phased approach to allow certain exemptions for fully vaccinated travellers who are already eligible to enter Canada. Under Phase I of the approach, fully vaccinated travellers arriving by air or land will continue to be required to complete the mandatory pre- and on-arrival testing. However, those arriving by air will no longer be required to stay at a government-authorized hotel while awaiting their on-arrival test, and all travellers will now be permitted to leave quarantine upon receipt of a negative result from their on-arrival COVID-19 test. These travellers will not be required to complete a test on Day 8. Fully vaccinated individuals are defined as those who have received the full dosage of a Health Canada-approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to entering Canada.Recognizing that continued safe and efficient flow of essential border traffic is critical to our economy, exemptions to border measures have been put in place for essential service workers, such as truckers, medical professionals and some other critical cohorts. These travellers may be required to observe other federal and provincial public health measures (for example, wearing a mask when they are in public settings), and may be subject to federal alternative testing protocols, as required.While the Government of Canada continues to advise Canadians to avoid non-essential travel to mitigate the further spread of COVID-19 and its variants into Canada, current restrictions will be modified when appropriate, and as vaccination progresses, in accordance with the latest scientific evidence, and in collaboration with our provincial, territorial and international counterparts.
COVID-19FrontièresIndustrie manufacturièrePandémiesRestrictions concernant les voyagesServices essentiels
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée11 juin 2021432-00949432-00949 (Affaires et commerce)ChrisLewisEssexConservateurON11 mai 202111 juin 202127 avril 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communes ATTENDU QUE
  • Plus de 12 000 conseillers en voyages indépendants sont sans revenu depuis un an en raison des restrictions sur les déplacements imposées par le gouvernement dans le contexte de la COVID-19, et qu’ils sont les uniques propriétaires de leur petite entreprise;
  • Ces propriétaires n’étant pour la plupart pas admissibles aux programmes d’aide fédéraux comme le Compte d’urgence pour les entreprises canadiennes, la Subvention d’urgence du Canada pour le loyer, la Subvention salariale d’urgence du Canada et le Fonds d’aide et de relance régionale, ils sont laissés pour compte et acculés à la faillite.
Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidants du Canada, prions la Chambre des communes :
  • d’accorder un financement sectoriel aux conseillers en voyages indépendants;
  • d’élargir l’admissibilité au Fonds d’aide et de relance régionale aux zones urbaines afin que les propriétaires uniques y aient accès.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandDepartment of FinanceThe Government thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about support for small business owners.The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support have protected millions of Canadian jobs and helped support businesses of every size across Canada through the COVID-19 pandemic. This is why Budget 2021 commits to extending the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy to continue our support for Canadian businesses.The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy protects jobs, encourages employers to rehire workers previously laid off as a result of COVID-19 and helps position Canadian businesses for a robust recovery when the virus is under control. The wage subsidy is available to eligible employers, including sole proprietors, that have experienced a revenue decline in a particular qualifying period by providing a subsidy to the employer in respect of eligible remuneration paid to their eligible employees.The Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy also provides direct relief to qualifying renters and property owners, including businesses, non-profits and charities, that are economically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The rent subsidy mirrors the wage subsidy by providing benefits directly to qualifying renters and property owners, including sole proprietors, affected by COVID-19.  The Lockdown Support provides additional support to qualifying renters and property owners that must significantly restrict their activities as a result of a public health order.
Response by the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mélanie Joly, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada has taken a number of measures to ensure that our economic recovery is as robust and rapid as possible. Since the pandemic began, the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) and Community Futures Organizations (CFs) have been delivering the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) as a backstop to other broad-based programming. The RRRF helps SMEs whose basic liquidity needs are not addressed by other programs with repayable contributions to continue operations and sustain jobs through the pandemic. Since the Government launched the RRRF in April 2020, the six RDAs and nearly 270 CFs fund have delivered over $1.5 billion to more than 22,000 businesses and organizations helping to preserve over 165,000 jobs across the country. Recognizing that the tourism sector has been particularly hard hit as a result of the pandemic, 25% of the over $2 billion in liquidity support is earmarked for tourism-related businesses and organizations nation wide.The RRRF continues to be a backstop program and businesses must apply for other available emergency support measures, including the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA), the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) and the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP), before accessing the RRRF. Independent travel agents, including those operating as sole proprietorships, are considered eligible for these programs as well as the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB).Although businesses must be incorporated to apply to the RDAs, sole proprietors are eligible to apply for RRRF funding through their local CFs across the country and through other third parties, such as the Women’s Enterprise Initiative (WEI) Organizations in western Canada or the PME MTL organizations in Québec.Furthermore, Budget 2021 presents a plan to get through the pandemic, create jobs, and make sure Canada’s economy recovers effectively. The Government of Canada recognizes that workers and businesses in the tourism sector and those in the hospitality and culture industries have been particularly hard hit by the pandemic. For this reason, and as noted in Budget 2021, businesses and non-profit organizations in these sectors have received an estimated $15.4 billion through federal emergency support programs to date. Budget 2021 also outlines a number of new investments totalling $1 billion that are targeted toward the tourism sector and its recovery. This includes a $500 million Tourism Relief Fund to support investments by local tourism businesses in adapting their products and services to public health measures. Additionally, Budget 2021 announced $200 million to support Canada’s major festivals; $200 million for local festivals and events; and, $100 million to support Destination Canada’s marketing domestic and international activities. In addition to these tailored supports, funding for safe and secure air travel will also contribute to the revitalization of the tourism sector, including:
  • $82.5 million to Transport Canada to support major Canadian airports in making investments in COVID-19 testing infrastructure;
  • $105.3 million to Transport Canada to further advance technologies to facilitate touchless and secure air travel;
  • $6.7 million to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority to acquire and operate sanitization equipment; and
  • $271.1 million to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority to maintain operations and enhanced screening services at the 89 airports where it works.
Budget 2021 also includes extensions to the support programs that have been a lifeline for millions of Canadians, from the wage subsidy and the rent subsidy, to the Canada recovery benefit and the recovery caregiving benefit. With these supports, the Government is setting the foundation for a robust economic recovery.  Funding for early learning and childcare will allow both mothers and fathers to work, thus increasing our workforce and boosting our economic growth.To help small businesses recover and grow, Budget 2021 contains a new Canada recovery hiring program that will run from June to November 2021, and provide up to $595 million to make it easier for businesses to bring back laid off workers or to hire new ones. The Government will also invest up to $4 billion to help up to 160,000 small- and medium-size businesses buy and adopt the new technologies they need to grow and become more productive and more competitive.Finally, over the next four years, the Budget proposes up to $146.9 million to strengthen the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, and an additional $51.7 million for the Black Entrepreneurship Program. These measures will provide affordable financing to these businesses and strengthen capacity within the entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Agences de voyagesCOVID-19PandémiesPlan d'intervention économique du Canada pour répondre à la COVID-19
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée9 juin 2021432-00872432-00872 (Affaires et commerce)BradVisMission—Matsqui—Fraser CanyonConservateurBC26 avril 20219 juin 202120 avril 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communesAttendu que
  • Les espaces d’événement commerciaux, comme les salons commerciaux, les salons pour consommateurs et les expositions, sont l’un des secteurs les plus touchés par la pandémie;
  • Le secteur tient à reprendre ses activités de façon sécuritaire et est prêt à appliquer rigoureusement les normes de santé et de sécurité exigées par les autorités locales, mais le secteur des événements commerciaux a prédit que si les restrictions se poursuivaient en 2021, l’année serait encore pire que 2020;
  • Il est évident qu’il faut un soutien plus ciblé. Le secteur des expositions sert de force motrice à d’innombrables autres secteurs, du voyage au tourisme en passant par les petits commerces locaux, le sport et la fabrication;
  • Donner un coup de main à ce secteur, dont les membres participent pleinement à leurs collectivités, serait une occasion en or d’aider en même temps les économies locales, de stimuler la création d’emplois bien rémunérés et permettre aux petits commerces d’un bout à l’autre de la chaîne d’approvisionnement de non seulement survivre, mais de prospérer.
Nous, soussignés membres de l’Association canadienne de gestion d’expositions, et Canadiens touchés du secteur des événements commerciaux, dont les salons commerciaux, les salons pour consommateurs et les expositions, prions la Chambre des communes de :
  • Prolonger la Subvention salariale d’urgence du Canada (SSUC) jusqu’en juin 2022 pour les secteurs les plus touchés, ce qui comprend les producteurs de salons commerciaux, de salon pour consommateurs et d’expositions, ainsi que les acteurs de la chaîne d’approvisionnement qui dépendent des événements commerciaux pour un certain pourcentage de leur revenu annuel;
  • Élargir les critères d’admissibilité à la Subvention d'urgence du Canada pour le loyer (SUCL) pour y inclure le loyer payé par les producteurs de salons pour louer les espaces d’exposition une fois que les activités reprendront;
  • Établir un volet de financement pour le secteur des salons commerciaux et pour consommateurs ainsi que pour les entreprises qui en dépendent pour un certain pourcentage de leur revenu annuel, en prévoyant qu’une partie des fonds serait à remboursement conditionnel;
  • Modifier le Programme de crédit pour les secteurs durement touchés (PCSDT) pour qu’une partie des prêts disponibles soit à remboursement conditionnel ou sans intérêt.
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mélanie Joly, P.C., M.P.Response to part 3:The Government of Canada has taken a number of measures to ensure that our economic recovery is as robust and rapid as possible. Since the pandemic began, the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) and Community Futures Organizations (CFs) have been delivering the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) as a backstop to other broad-based programming. The RRRF helps SMEs whose basic liquidity needs are not addressed by other programs with repayable contributions to continue operations and sustain jobs through the pandemic. Since the Government launched the RRRF in April 2020, the six RDAs and nearly 270 CFs fund have delivered over $1.5 billion to more than 22,000 businesses and organizations helping to preserve over 165,000 jobs across the country. Recognizing that the tourism sector has been particularly hard hit as a result of the pandemic, 25% of the over $2 billion in liquidity support is earmarked for tourism-related businesses and organizations nation wide.Budget 2021 presents a plan to get through the pandemic, create jobs, and make sure Canada’s economy recovers effectively. The Government of Canada recognizes that workers and businesses in the tourism sector and those in the hospitality, events and culture industries have been particularly hard hit by the pandemic. For this reason, and as noted in Budget 2021, businesses and non-profit organizations in these sectors have received an estimated $15.4 billion through federal emergency support programs to date. Budget 2021 outlines a number of new investments that are targeted toward the tourism sector and its recovery. This includes a $500 million Tourism Relief Fund to support businesses and organizations in undertaking a wide range of activities to help them recover from the pandemic and position themselves for future growth. The Fund will help to revitalize the tourism sector in Canada, while bringing concrete economic benefits to communities of all sizes throughout the country.  Budget 2021 also  announced $200 million to support Canada’s major festivals as well as$200 million for local festivals and event.It also includes $100 million to support Destination Canada’s marketing domestic and international activities to help visitors discover and explore the country.  As part of this investment, Destination Canada, through its Business Events Canada division, will work with major municipal Destination Marketing Organizations on strategies to attract business events and conferences to Canada’s biggest cities.Response by The Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade      Signed by (Minister or Parliament Secretary): Rachel Bendayan     Response to part 4:          The Government of Canada is continuing to adapt measures that will support Canadians through the pandemic and drive a robust and resilient recovery. Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP) provides support to hard-hit businesses that require additional capital, based on having already benefited from other programs such as Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, and Canada Emergency Business Account – which are either fully supported or partially forgivable – to help them bridge to the other side of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Understanding that many small and medium-sized enterprises are concerned with taking on more debt, loans will have flexible repayment terms of up to 10 years and principal payments that may be delayed by up to 12 months, and the HASCAP interest rate – at 4% – is a favourable rate for hard hit businesses. Further, personal guarantees are not taken under HASCAP.HASCAP was launched on February 1, with now 51 financial institutions participating. Interest in the program has been high with approximately 1000 expressions of interest per week as at mid-March. The total of authorizations and applications in progress is 4400 as of April 25.                                                                   
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandDepartment of FinanceThe Government thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about support for the commercial events sector.As of May 2, 2021, the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy has helped more than 5.3 million Canadians keep their jobs and provided more than $77 billion in support to the Canadian economy. As of May 2, 2021, the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support have helped more than 177,000 organizations with rent, mortgage, and other expenses, and provided $3.3 billion in support.The wage subsidy, rent subsidy, and Lockdown Support programs are currently set to expire in June 2021. In order to bridge Canadians through the rest of this crisis to recovery, continued support is needed. To give workers and employers certainty and stability over the coming months, Budget 2021 proposes to extend these programs until September 25, 2021. Extending these support measures will mean that millions of jobs will continue to be protected. The Government is also seeking the legislative authority to have the ability to further extend the wage subsidy, rent subsidy and Lockdown Support programs through regulations until November 20, 2021, should the economic and public health situation require it beyond September 2021.The rent subsidy is a broad-based, legislated program and as such, requires straightforward, objective rules that can accommodate organizations of all sizes and sectors, while still maintaining the integrity of the program. For that reason, eligible expenses are limited to those paid under agreements in writing entered into before October 9, 2020 (and continuations of those agreements).
COVID-19ÉvènementsPandémiesPlan d'intervention économique du Canada pour répondre à la COVID-19
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée7 juin 2021432-00863432-00863 (Santé)PaulManlyNanaimo—LadysmithParti vertBC23 avril 20217 juin 20214 mars 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communes réunie en Parlement ATTENDU QUE :
  • La majorité des communications et des mesures préconisées par les responsables de la santé relativement à la COVID-19 concerne l’éloignement physique, le port du masque, la désinfection des mains, la recherche des contacts et la vaccination;
  • les produits naturels essentiels et éprouvés pour le système immunitaire et les pratiques de santé holistique ont reçu moins d’attention quant à leur rôle en matière de soins de santé préventifs;
  • une approche holistique et complémentaire en matière de santé serait plus abordable pour les contribuables que le traitement des maladies;
  • de nombreux Canadiens investissent déjà dans des stratégies d’immunité naturelle, d’autogestion proactive de la santé et de prévention;
  • manger des légumes frais, faire de l’exercice, gérer le stress, boire de l’eau, marcher à l’air frais et au soleil et bien dormir sont des mesures simples et rentables pour améliorer la fonction immunitaire et le bien-être global;
  • il a été démontré que la vitamine D réduit substantiellement les symptômes de la COVID-19;
  • de nombreux Canadiens ont une carence en vitamine D pendant l’hiver, en plus de devoir s’isoler chez eux pour des raisons de sécurité, sans prendre de suppléments;
  • d’autres vitamines et nutriments essentiels au fonctionnement optimal du système immunitaire et à la santé globale, comme la vitamine C, le zinc, le sélénium et les extraits de plantes, montrent des résultats prometteurs dans la prévention de la COVID-19;
  • une plus grande attention et une meilleure sensibilisation à l’égard des solutions de santé naturelles aideraient à optimiser le fonctionnement du système immunitaire des Canadiens, ce qui améliorerait leur qualité de vie et leur productivité;
PAR CONSÉQUENT, nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, demandons respectueusement que le gouvernement du Canada : 1) sensibilise et autonomise les Canadiens à l’égard des approches holistiques afin d’optimiser et de maintenir leur immunité naturelle et leur bien-être. 2) Couvre les pratiques pour le maintien de la santé et les soins de bien-être en vertu de la Loi canadienne sur la santé, y compris les soins de chiropraxie, la massothérapie, l’acupuncture et la médecine homéopathique et naturopathique. 3) Appuie, encourage et améliore l’accès des Canadiens aux services de santé holistique et aux produits naturels. 4) Incorpore les mesures et les pratiques de renforcement du système immunitaire dans les messages sur la prévention de la COVID-19.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is responsible for establishing and administering legislation and regulations to ensure the safety, efficacy and quality of natural health products sold in Canada. Health Canada recognizes that, for many Canadians, natural health products are an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including helping to maintain and support immune function.Natural health products in Canada (such as vitamin and mineral supplements and herbal products) are regulated under the Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR), which were created to differentiate natural health products from prescription and non-prescription drugs, which are regulated under the Food and Drug Regulations.Natural health products are generally low-risk products meant to be used by individuals for minor, non-serious conditions. However, low-risk does not mean no risk. That is why Health Canada reviews the safety, efficacy and quality of natural health products prior to their entry on the Canadian market, in accordance with the NHPR and will take appropriate action. Health Canada has not authorized an application for a product containing Vitamin D with claims to reduce symptoms associated with COVID-19. Claims related to prevention of COVID-19 infection or symptomatic treatment of COVID-19 are considered higher risk and would require a high degree of supporting scientific evidence prior to approval for this use.It may be of interest to note that the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development recently completed audit report of Health Canada’s Natural Health Products Program. A number of recommendations were made as a result, all of which Health Canada agrees with.Although the federal government plays a crucial role in supporting health care by providing funding to the provinces and territories, the provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services. This includes determining which services to cover under their respective health care insurance plans. Under the Canada Health Act, a province or territory must provide coverage for medically necessary hospital and physician services (i.e., insured health services, including access to holistic health services) to their eligible residents. Wellness care and practices aimed at sustaining health, including chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and homeopathic and naturopathic medicines, are part of a range of additional services and benefits, which are outside the scope of the Act, and may be provided at provincial and territorial discretion, on their own terms and conditions. 
COVID-19PandémiesProduits de santé naturelsSanté publique
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée7 juin 2021432-00861432-00861 (Affaires et commerce)NellyShinPort Moody—CoquitlamConservateurBC23 avril 20217 juin 202122 avril 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communesATTENDU QUE :
  • plus de 24 000 conseillers en voyages au Canada n’ont obtenu aucun revenu depuis un an puisque le gouvernement a imposé des restrictions aux déplacements liés à la COVID;
  • les transporteurs aériens et leurs agences de voyages affiliées demandent à ces conseillers de rembourser les commissions qu’ils ont gagnées à la fin de 2019 et au début de 2020 sur les voyages de leurs clients qui ont été annulés en raison desdites restrictions concernant les déplacements, ce qui est connu sous le nom de « rappel des commissions » ou « récupération des commissions ».
Nous soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions la Chambre des communes de veiller à ce que :
  • toute aide financière accordée aux transporteurs aériens et à leurs agences de voyages affiliées soit conditionnelle à la protection des commissions des conseillers en voyages;
  • les commissions déjà récupérées par les transporteurs aériens et leurs agences de voyages affiliées soient remboursées aux conseillers en voyages en temps opportun.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraTransport Canada has been working with a range of air industry participants, the organizations that represent them, and other government departments to analyze the current situation and develop appropriate options to support Canada’s air transport sector generally.The Government of Canada recognizes that travel agencies and their agents play a vital role in the air travel system, both in terms of assisting Canadians wanting to explore the world beyond our borders and welcoming tourists to Canada and by virtue of the latter play a critical role in supporting jobs and businesses. On November 8, 2020, the Government of Canada announced it would develop a package of assistance for Canada’s airlines to ensure the existence of a robust air transport sector that connects Canadian communities. Agreements have now been reached with Air Canada, Transat, A.T., and Sunwing, based on repayable instruments to protect taxpayers’ money. Any assistance to air carriers comes with strict conditions to protect Canadians and the public interest. All carriers will be required to provide refunds for tickets cancelled due to the pandemic, and Air Canada must restore services to Canadian communities where these were cut due to the pandemic. Additionally, as part of the Air Canada and Transat agreements, travel agencies and their agents, most of which are small businesses, owned and operated by women, and significantly affected by the pandemic, may assist in the processing of refunds for tickets the travel agents sold but will not have their sales commissions recalled on refunded fares by Air Canada and Transat. The government is currently negotiating financial packages with other Canadian carriers to achieve similar outcomes. 
Agences de voyagesCompagnies aériennesCOVID-19PandémiesRemboursement
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée7 juin 2021432-00860432-00860 (Affaires et commerce)NellyShinPort Moody—CoquitlamConservateurBC23 avril 20217 juin 202122 avril 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communes ATTENDU QUE
  • Plus de 12 000 conseillers en voyages indépendants sont sans revenu depuis un an en raison des restrictions sur les déplacements imposées par le gouvernement dans le contexte de la COVID-19, et qu’ils sont les uniques propriétaires de leur petite entreprise;
  • Ces propriétaires n’étant pour la plupart pas admissibles aux programmes d’aide fédéraux comme le Compte d’urgence pour les entreprises canadiennes, la Subvention d’urgence du Canada pour le loyer, la Subvention salariale d’urgence du Canada et le Fonds d’aide et de relance régionale, ils sont laissés pour compte et acculés à la faillite.
Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidants du Canada, prions la Chambre des communes :
  • d’accorder un financement sectoriel aux conseillers en voyages indépendants;
  • d’élargir l’admissibilité au Fonds d’aide et de relance régionale aux zones urbaines afin que les propriétaires uniques y aient accès.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandDepartment of FinanceThe Government thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about support for small business owners.The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support have protected millions of Canadian jobs and helped support businesses of every size across Canada through the COVID-19 pandemic. This is why Budget 2021 commits to extending the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy to continue our support for Canadian businesses.The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy protects jobs, encourages employers to rehire workers previously laid off as a result of COVID-19 and helps position Canadian businesses for a robust recovery when the virus is under control. The wage subsidy is available to eligible employers, including sole proprietors, that have experienced a revenue decline in a particular qualifying period by providing a subsidy to the employer in respect of eligible remuneration paid to their eligible employees. The Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy also provides direct relief to qualifying renters and property owners, including businesses, non-profits and charities, that are economically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The rent subsidy mirrors the wage subsidy by providing benefits directly to qualifying renters and property owners, including sole proprietors, affected by COVID-19.  The Lockdown Support provides additional support to qualifying renters and property owners that must significantly restrict their activities as a result of a public health order.
Response by the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mélanie Joly, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada has taken a number of measures to ensure that our economic recovery is as robust and rapid as possible. Since the pandemic began, the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) and Community Futures Organizations (CFs) have been delivering the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) as a backstop to other broad-based programming. The RRRF helps SMEs whose basic liquidity needs are not addressed by other programs with repayable contributions to continue operations and sustain jobs through the pandemic. Since the Government launched the RRRF in April 2020, the six RDAs and nearly 270 CFs fund have delivered over $1.5 billion to more than 22,000 businesses and organizations helping to preserve over 165,000 jobs across the country. Recognizing that the tourism sector has been particularly hard hit as a result of the pandemic, 25% of the over $2 billion in liquidity support is earmarked for tourism-related businesses and organizations nation wide.The RRRF continues to be a backstop program and businesses must apply for other available emergency support measures, including the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA), the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) and the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP), before accessing the RRRF. Independent travel agents, including those operating as sole proprietorships, are considered eligible for these programs as well as the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB).Although businesses must be incorporated to apply to the RDAs, sole proprietors are eligible to apply for RRRF funding through their local CFs across the country and through other third parties, such as the Women’s Enterprise Initiative (WEI) Organizations in western Canada or the PME MTL organizations in Québec.Furthermore, Budget 2021 presents a plan to get through the pandemic, create jobs, and make sure Canada’s economy recovers effectively. The Government of Canada recognizes that workers and businesses in the tourism sector and those in the hospitality and culture industries have been particularly hard hit by the pandemic. For this reason, and as noted in Budget 2021, businesses and non-profit organizations in these sectors have received an estimated $15.4 billion through federal emergency support programs to date. Budget 2021 also outlines a number of new investments totalling $1 billion that are targeted toward the tourism sector and its recovery. This includes a $500 million Tourism Relief Fund to support investments by local tourism businesses in adapting their products and services to public health measures. Additionally, Budget 2021 announced $200 million to support Canada’s major festivals; $200 million for local festivals and events; and, $100 million to support Destination Canada’s marketing domestic and international activities. In addition to these tailored supports, funding for safe and secure air travel will also contribute to the revitalization of the tourism sector, including:
  • $82.5 million to Transport Canada to support major Canadian airports in making investments in COVID-19 testing infrastructure;
  • $105.3 million to Transport Canada to further advance technologies to facilitate touchless and secure air travel;
  • $6.7 million to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority to acquire and operate sanitization equipment; and
  • $271.1 million to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority to maintain operations and enhanced screening services at the 89 airports where it works.
Budget 2021 also includes extensions to the support programs that have been a lifeline for millions of Canadians, from the wage subsidy and the rent subsidy, to the Canada recovery benefit and the recovery caregiving benefit. With these supports, the Government is setting the foundation for a robust economic recovery.  Funding for early learning and childcare will allow both mothers and fathers to work, thus increasing our workforce and boosting our economic growth.To help small businesses recover and grow, Budget 2021 contains a new Canada recovery hiring program that will run from June to November 2021, and provide up to $595 million to make it easier for businesses to bring back laid off workers or to hire new ones. The Government will also invest up to $4 billion to help up to 160,000 small- and medium-size businesses buy and adopt the new technologies they need to grow and become more productive and more competitive.Finally, over the next four years, the Budget proposes up to $146.9 million to strengthen the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, and an additional $51.7 million for the Black Entrepreneurship Program. These measures will provide affordable financing to these businesses and strengthen capacity within the entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Agences de voyagesCOVID-19PandémiesPlan d'intervention économique du Canada pour répondre à la COVID-19
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée4 juin 2021e-3181e-3181 (Santé)AngellaMacEwenDanielBlaikieElmwood—TransconaNPDMB24 février 2021 à 11 h 20 (HAE)26 mars 2021 à 11 h 20 (HAE)21 avril 20214 juin 202130 mars 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :L’Inde et l’Afrique du Sud ont présenté une motion à l’Organisation mondiale du commerce (OMC) visant à déroger temporairement à certaines parties de l’Accord sur les aspects des droits de propriété intellectuelle qui touchent au commerce (ADPIC) pour les technologies médicales associées à la COVID-19;Si les pays membres de l’OMC approuvent cette dérogation temporaire, cela contribuerait à garantir la production de quantités suffisantes de diagnostics, de traitements et de vaccins abordables en ce qui concerne la COVID-19, ce qui augmenterait l’offre mondiale de ces produits et favoriserait l’effort mondial de lutte contre la pandémie;Sans cette dérogation, les pays à faibles et moyens revenus n’ont pas la capacité de fabriquer des vaccins, et tous les pays devront compter sur la charité des compagnies pharmaceutiques et des pays riches ou se retrouver sans accès aux médicaments et aux technologies qui pourraient sauver des vies;Les sociétés pharmaceutiques ont reçu un financement sans précédent des contribuables pour aider à développer des vaccins contre la COVID-19; De nombreux pays sont maintenant confrontés à de nouveaux variants plus contagieux de la COVID-19, ce qui rend le déploiement mondial des vaccins encore plus urgent.Nous, les soussignés, habitants du Canada, demandons au gouvernement du Canada d’appuyer dans les plus brefs délais la proposition de l’Inde et de l’Afrique du Sud de déroger à certaines dispositions de l’Accord sur les ADPIC pour la prévention, le contrôle et le traitement de la COVID-19 au Conseil des ADPIC de l’OMC.
Response by the Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International TradeSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rachel BendayanThe Government of Canada continues to actively work with all international partners to reach a rapid and just end to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our government recognizes the integral role that industry has played in innovating to develop and deliver life-saving COVID-19 vaccines, and firmly believes in the importance of protecting intellectual property (IP). Canada remains committed to finding solutions and reaching an agreement that accelerates global vaccine production and does not negatively impact public health, including being ready to discuss proposals on a waiver for IP protection, in particular for COVID-19 vaccines, under the World Trade Organisation’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). Canada will continue working closely with all WTO Members, including engaging on new proposals from any Member or group, in seeking a consensus-based outcome to address any IP challenges created by COVID-19. Since the introduction of the IP waiver proposal, Canada has actively worked with partners to identify barriers to vaccine access—many of which are unrelated to IP, such as supply chain constraints. For instance, Canada is actively engaged in the work of the Trade and Health Initiative at the WTO, which aims to strengthen global supply chains and support the delivery of essential medicines and medical supplies, including vaccines, around the world. Canada has also encouraged the WTO Director General’s efforts to enhance the WTO’s role in global dialogue with the pharmaceutical sector towards accelerating the production and distribution of affordable, safe, effective COVID-19 vaccines and other medical products in coordination with the World Health Organization and other relevant organizations. Canada has always been, and remains, a strong advocate for equitable access to vaccines and medical supplies around the world through our support for the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator and the COVAX Facility. To date, we have announced $1.3 billion to support low- and middle-income countries to access COVID-19 vaccines, tests, and treatments because we understand that the pandemic is not over anywhere, until it is over everywhere. The Government of Canada continues to support a robust, multifaceted, and global effort to address the pandemic, one that draws upon all of the necessary resources and tools available in the international rules-based trading framework, as well as new mechanisms for global cooperation on the procurement of COVID-19 vaccines and other medical products. As equitable, timely and affordable access to testing, treatments, and vaccines will be critical for controlling and ending this pandemic, Canada remains committed to continued engagement with all members of the international community to find solutions to these global challenges.
Accords sur les aspects des droits de Propriété Intellectuelle qui touchent au commerceCOVID-19MédicamentsPandémiesPropriété intellectuelle
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée31 mai 2021e-3108e-3108 (Santé)DawnRobertsPaulManlyNanaimo—LadysmithParti vertBC1 février 2021 à 12 h 58 (HAE)3 mars 2021 à 12 h 58 (HAE)16 avril 202131 mai 20213 mars 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="1" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :La majorité des communications et des mandats liés à la COVID-19 par les responsables de la santé portent sur la distanciation sociale, le port du masque, la désinfection des mains, le traçage des contacts et la vaccination; Les éléments essentiels du système immunitaire naturel et éprouvé et les pratiques de santé holistiques ont reçu moins d’attention concernant leur rôle dans les soins de santé préventifs; Une approche holistique et complémentaire en matière de santé serait plus abordable pour les contribuables que le traitement de la maladie; De nombreux Canadiens investissent déjà dans l’immunité naturelle, les soins personnels proactifs et les stratégies de prévention;Manger des légumes frais, faire de l’exercice, gérer le stress, boire de l’eau, marcher à l’air libre/au soleil et dormir suffisamment sont des mesures simples et peu coûteuses pour améliorer la fonction immunitaire et le bien-être général; Il a été démontré que la vitamine D réduit de manière significative les symptômes associés à la COVID-19; De nombreux Canadiens souffrent d’une carence en vitamine D pendant les mois d’hiver, et pourtant ils s’isolent pour des raisons de sécurité dans leur maison sans prendre de suppléments; D’autres vitamines et nutriments essentiels pour une immunité optimale et une bonne santé générale comprennent la vitamine C, le zinc, le sélénium et des extraits de plantes, et montrent des résultats prometteurs pour la prévention de la COVID-19; Une attention et une sensibilisation accrues aux remèdes de santé naturels permettraient d’optimiser le système immunitaire des Canadiens et d’améliorer leur qualité de vie et leur productivité.Nous, les soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, demandons au gouvernement du Canada : 1) D’éduquer et de responsabiliser les Canadiens sur les approches holistiques visant à optimiser et à préserver leur immunité naturelle et leur bien-être; 2) D’offrir une couverture pour les pratiques favorisant la préservation de la santé et les soins de bien-être en vertu de la Loi canadienne sur la santé, y compris les soins chiropratiques, la massothérapie, l’acupuncture et les médicaments homéopathiques et naturopathiques; 3) De soutenir, de promouvoir et d’améliorer l’accès des Canadiens aux services de santé holistiques et aux produits naturels;4) D’inclure des mesures et des pratiques de renforcement du système immunitaire dans les messages sur la prévention de la COVID-19.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is responsible for establishing and administering legislation and regulations for natural health products. Health Canada recognizes that, for many Canadians, natural health products are an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including helping to maintain and support immune function.Since 2004, natural health products in Canada have been regulated under the Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR) to help provide Canadians access to a wide range of natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality. The NHPR were created to differentiate natural health products from prescription and non-prescription drugs, which are regulated under the Food and Drug Regulations.Natural health products are generally low-risk products (such as vitamin and mineral supplements and herbal products), meant to be used by individuals for minor, non-serious conditions. However, low-risk does not mean no risk. That is why Health Canada reviews the safety, efficacy and quality of natural health products prior to their entry on the Canadian market, in accordance with the NHPR. Health Canada has not received an application for a product containing Vitamin D with claims to reduce symptoms associated with COVID-19. Claims related to prevention of COVID-19 infection or symptomatic treatment of COVID-19 are considered higher risk and would require a high degree of supporting scientific evidence prior to approval for this use.The Department is committed to making sure that Canadians have the information they need to make informed choices. For this reason, Health Canada has been focusing on improving the labelling of natural health products so that these labels are easier for consumers to read, supporting them in selecting and safely using these products. These changes are not expected to impact the availability of natural health products for consumers. For more information on Health Canada’s regulation of natural health products, please visit our website.Although the federal government plays a crucial role in supporting health care by providing funding to the provinces and territories, the provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services. This includes determining which services to cover under their respective health care insurance plans. Under the Canada Health Act, a province or territory must provide coverage for medically necessary hospital and physician services (i.e., insured health services, including access to holistic health services) to their eligible residents. Wellness care and practices aimed at sustaining health, including chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and homeopathic and naturopathic medicines, are part of a range of additional services and benefits, which are outside the scope of the Act, and may be provided at provincial and territorial discretion, on their own terms and conditions. 
COVID-19PandémiesProduits de santé naturelsSanté publique
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée31 mai 2021e-2590e-2590 (Affaires étrangères)AlexLeeL’hon.Judy A.SgroHumber River—Black CreekLibéralON13 mai 2020 à 16 h 40 (HAE)11 août 2020 à 16 h 40 (HAE)16 avril 202131 mai 202112 août 2020Pétition à la <Addressee type="1" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Chambre des communes </Addressee>Attendu que :Le 22 avril 2020, Taiwan a annoncé un don au Canada de 500 000 masques médicaux à être distribués aux travailleurs de la santé de première ligne et aux Premières Nations; Le don a été annoncé quelques jours seulement après que des avions canadiens envoyés en Chine pour ramener des fournitures médicales sont revenus vides.Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions la Chambre des communes de : 1- Remercier publiquement le gouvernement taiwanais pour son don de masques médicaux aux travailleurs de la santé canadiens et aux communautés des Premières Nations; 2- Féliciter publiquement le peuple taiwanais pour avoir réussi à contenir la crise de la COVID-19;3- Appuyer publiquement la participation significative de Taiwan à l’Organisation mondiale de la santé (OMS) et à l’Assemblée mondiale de la santé, entre autres organisations intergouvernementales, y compris en cosignant une lettre au directeur général de l’OMS, rédigée par le Japon et les États Unis et signée par d’autres nations aux vues similaires, afin d’inviter la délégation taiwanaise à l’Assemblée mondiale de la santé;4- Encourager le resserrement des relations bilatérales entre le Canada et Taiwan, y compris sur le plan des communications ministérielles et des voyages; 5- Inviter le ministre de la Santé taiwanais Chen Shih-chung à s’adresser à un comité parlementaire pour discuter de la façon dont Taiwan a su juguler la pandémie de COVID-19 et faire part aux autorités canadiennes des leçons tirées de la crise.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantCanada officially expressed its appreciation both publicly and privately. On April 28, 2020, Executive Director Jordan Reeves of the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei conveyed a public expression of gratitude in response to Taiwan’s donation of 500,000 masks to Canada.The Government of Canada welcomes the participation from the entire international community to work together to promote global health. The contributions from the people of Taiwan during the COVID-19 pandemic has been greatly appreciated by Canada. Together, we will overcome the pandemic.Canada has consistently supported Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations where there is a practical imperative and where Taiwan’s absence would be detrimental to global interests. This includes supporting Taiwan’s role as an observer in the World Health Assembly.As Canada's 13th largest trading partner, Taiwan has served as a critical regional hub for global supply chains as well as an important link to Asia for many Canadian businesses and industries. Canada and Taiwan continue to promote growing economic, people-to-people and cultural ties based on shared values, robust business-to-business ties, and significant science, technology and innovation collaboration. Canadian officials engage with appropriate Taiwan contacts to advance Canada’s substantive interests. The Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade has promoted Canada’s commercial interest in discussions with her Taiwan counterpart.Canada and Taiwan continue to engage in health-related discussions related to combating the COVID-19 pandemic, including during the latest Canada-Taiwan Economic Consultations, where both sides discussed health cooperation and trade in personal protective equipment, among other issues. Canada looks forward to further engaging Taiwan in areas of mutual interest relating to global public health in the future.
COVID-19PandémiesPolitique étrangèreTaiwan
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée27 mai 2021432-00785432-00785 (Santé)PaulManlyNanaimo—LadysmithParti vertBC13 avril 202127 mai 20214 mars 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communes réunie en Parlement ATTENDU QUE :
  • La majorité des communications et des mesures préconisées par les responsables de la santé relativement à la COVID-19 concerne l’éloignement physique, le port du masque, la désinfection des mains, la recherche des contacts et la vaccination;
  • les produits naturels essentiels et éprouvés pour le système immunitaire et les pratiques de santé holistique ont reçu moins d’attention quant à leur rôle en matière de soins de santé préventifs;
  • une approche holistique et complémentaire en matière de santé serait plus abordable pour les contribuables que le traitement des maladies;
  • de nombreux Canadiens investissent déjà dans des stratégies d’immunité naturelle, d’autogestion proactive de la santé et de prévention;
  • manger des légumes frais, faire de l’exercice, gérer le stress, boire de l’eau, marcher à l’air frais et au soleil et bien dormir sont des mesures simples et rentables pour améliorer la fonction immunitaire et le bien-être global;
  • il a été démontré que la vitamine D réduit substantiellement les symptômes de la COVID-19;
  • de nombreux Canadiens ont une carence en vitamine D pendant l’hiver, en plus de devoir s’isoler chez eux pour des raisons de sécurité, sans prendre de suppléments;
  • d’autres vitamines et nutriments essentiels au fonctionnement optimal du système immunitaire et à la santé globale, comme la vitamine C, le zinc, le sélénium et les extraits de plantes, montrent des résultats prometteurs dans la prévention de la COVID-19;
  • une plus grande attention et une meilleure sensibilisation à l’égard des solutions de santé naturelles aideraient à optimiser le fonctionnement du système immunitaire des Canadiens, ce qui améliorerait leur qualité de vie et leur productivité;
PAR CONSÉQUENT, nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, demandons respectueusement que le gouvernement du Canada : 1) sensibilise et autonomise les Canadiens à l’égard des approches holistiques afin d’optimiser et de maintenir leur immunité naturelle et leur bien-être. 2) Couvre les pratiques pour le maintien de la santé et les soins de bien-être en vertu de la Loi canadienne sur la santé, y compris les soins de chiropraxie, la massothérapie, l’acupuncture et la médecine homéopathique et naturopathique. 3) Appuie, encourage et améliore l’accès des Canadiens aux services de santé holistique et aux produits naturels. 4) Incorpore les mesures et les pratiques de renforcement du système immunitaire dans les messages sur la prévention de la COVID-19.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is responsible for establishing and administering legislation and regulations to ensure the safety, efficacy and quality of natural health products sold in Canada. Health Canada recognizes that, for many Canadians, natural health products are an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including helping to maintain and support immune function.Natural health products in Canada (such as vitamin and mineral supplements and herbal products) are regulated under the Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR), which were created to differentiate natural health products from prescription and non-prescription drugs, which are regulated under the Food and Drug Regulations.Natural health products are generally low-risk products meant to be used by individuals for minor, non-serious conditions. However, low-risk does not mean no risk. That is why Health Canada reviews the safety, efficacy and quality of natural health products prior to their entry on the Canadian market, in accordance with the NHPR and will take appropriate action. Health Canada has not authorized an application for a product containing Vitamin D with claims to reduce symptoms associated with COVID-19. Claims related to prevention of COVID-19 infection or symptomatic treatment of COVID-19 are considered higher risk and would require a high degree of supporting scientific evidence prior to approval for this use.It may be of interest to note that the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development recently completed audit report of Health Canada’s Natural Health Products Program. A number of recommendations were made as a result, all of which Health Canada agrees with.Although the federal government plays a crucial role in supporting health care by providing funding to the provinces and territories, the provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services. This includes determining which services to cover under their respective health care insurance plans. Under the Canada Health Act, a province or territory must provide coverage for medically necessary hospital and physician services (i.e., insured health services, including access to holistic health services) to their eligible residents. Wellness care and practices aimed at sustaining health, including chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and homeopathic and naturopathic medicines, are part of a range of additional services and benefits, which are outside the scope of the Act, and may be provided at provincial and territorial discretion, on their own terms and conditions. 
COVID-19PandémiesProduits de santé naturelsSanté publique
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée27 mai 2021e-2742e-2742 (Affaires étrangères)MohamadOukarAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatrieNPDQC21 juillet 2020 à 12 h 10 (HAE)18 novembre 2020 à 12 h 10 (HAE)13 avril 202127 mai 202120 novembre 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :Les citoyens de la République du Yémen souffrent pendant une crise humanitaire dont l’origine remonte à la guerre qui a éclaté en 2015. Cette guerre a donné lieu à la pire crise humanitaire au monde : 20,1 millions de personnes (environ les deux tiers de la population yéménite) sont menacées par la famine, et 14 millions de personnes ont besoin d’une aide immédiate pour survivre;Une pétition de 2017 a été remise à la Chambre des communes en mai 2019, et le gouvernement y a répondu en accordant 46,7 millions de dollars pour tenter de dénouer la crise;Toutefois, l’actuelle pandémie de COVID-19 a rapidement empiré la situation au Yémen et pourrait provoquer plus de décès que les cinq dernières années de guerre dévastatrice. Des restrictions supplémentaires sont imposées à l’aide humanitaire distribuée par le Programme alimentaire mondiale des Nations Unies, retardant grandement l’aide dont dépendent 8,2 personnes; Le Programme alimentaire mondiale des Nations Unies a besoin immédiatement de 737 millions de dollars américains pour poursuivre ses activités librement au cours des six prochains mois.Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada :- de continuer d’encourager les belligérants à rechercher une solution permanente, pacifique et démocratique et à long terme à leur conflit; - d’accorder une nouvelle contribution vitale pour appuyer le travail des organismes humanitaires au Yémen, compte tenu des nouvelles circonstances et des difficultés créées par la pandémie de COVID-19.
Response by the Minister of International Development Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Karina GouldThe Government of Canada is deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict in Yemen, which has caused civilian deaths, displaced families, threatened security and disrupted essential services.For too long now, the people of Yemen, particularly women and children, have been bearing the brunt of the crisis. The ongoing conflict is fueling widespread instability and exacerbating what continues to be the worst humanitarian crisis in the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has also exacerbated the humanitarian needs in Yemen.That is why on March 1, 2021, Canada announced $69.9 million to respond to the humanitarian needs of people in Yemen, building on the $225 million that Canada has provided since 2015. This funding is supporting the efforts of United Nations (UN) agencies, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and non governmental organizations in providing urgent assistance, such as food, medicine and clean water, for the most vulnerable communities in Yemen.Canada is also constantly working to improve the effectiveness and quality of programming in humanitarian situations. In Yemen, Canada is doing this in part by providing predictable multi-year funding and unearmarked contributions. This includes through our support to joint donor mechanisms such as the Yemen Humanitarian Fund (a Country-Based Pooled Fund) and the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). On March 1, 2021, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs approved an allocation of $40 million from the CERF to enable the scale-up of the life-saving humanitarian response in Yemen.In addition to humanitarian support, Canada is investing in peace and stability in Yemen. Since December 2018, Canada has provided over $22 million in peace and security assistance in Yemen to support the UN-led peace process. Canada supports an inclusive peace process in Yemen, with a focus on increasing women’s participation.Canada supports a political solution as the only way to end this conflict and remains fully supportive of UN Security Council Resolution 2216, adopted under Chapter 7 of the UN Charter. Canada firmly supports the efforts of the UN Special Envoy of the Secretary General for Yemen, Mr. Martin Griffiths, to achieve a lasting ceasefire and inclusive and sustainable peace. Canada also strongly supported the UN sponsored peace consultations on Yemen, which took place in December 2018. Canada urges all parties in Yemen to show restraint, de escalate hostilities and halt the tragic loss of life. In addition, Canada urges all parties to commit to a political dialogue and to work together toward the holding of subsequent rounds of peace consultations.In September 2017, Canada worked closely with the Netherlands and a core group of partner countries at the UN Human Rights Council to call for the creation of a new mechanism to investigate human rights abuses and violations in Yemen. This led to the creation of a high level independent group of experts. In September 2019, Canada worked diligently with other countries at the Human Rights Council to renew the mandate of the Group of Eminent Experts on Yemen.Please be assured that the Government of Canada will continue to closely monitor the situation in Yemen, fully support efforts to resume talks toward a permanent and peaceful end to the conflict in that country, and encourage all parties to work toward that goal.
Aide au développement internationalCOVID-19PandémiesPolitique étrangèreRépublique du Yémen
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée27 mai 2021e-3229e-3229 (Santé)JanetWillisElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsParti vertBC3 mars 2021 à 13 h 36 (HAE)2 avril 2021 à 13 h 36 (HAE)13 avril 202127 mai 20217 avril 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :Des statistiques récentes indiquent que 50 à 80 % des patients ayant contracté la COVID-19 continueront à présenter des symptômes plusieurs mois après l’infection initiale;Des dizaines de milliers de Canadiens présentent des symptômes permanents suffisamment graves, qui compromettent leurs moyens de subsistance, leur santé générale et leur capacité à fonctionner au quotidien; Les symptômes permanents peuvent être graves et peuvent inclure une fatigue débilitante, des dommages au cerveau, au cœur, aux poumons, aux reins ou au foie, la dépression, des troubles cognitifs, des symptômes mettant la vie en danger et une faiblesse musculaire;Le processus de demande de la Prestation canadienne de la relance économique exige que les demandeurs cherchent du travail, mais de nombreuses personnes souffrant des effets à long terme de la COVID ne peuvent pas le faire; De nombreux patients ayant contracté la COVID-19 au cours de la première vague se sont vu refuser des tests, mais sont maintenant surveillés de près, privés d’aide médicale et dans l’impossibilité de participer à des initiatives de recherche et de bénéficier de mesures de réadaptation; Sans aide, ceux qui souffrent des effets à long terme de la maladie risquent de devenir des malades chroniques, ce qui créera une énorme crise sociétale et économique pour le Canada.Nous, les soussignés, citoyens du Canada, demandons au gouvernement du Canada de :1. Reconnaître les effets à long terme de la COVID et de les considérer comme étant un problème de santé;2. Créer un système d’enregistrement pour les patients qui souffrent des effets à long terme de la COVID, inclure ces données dans le décompte quotidien des cas de Santé Canada et considérer ces patients comme « non guéris » ou « non infectieux »;3. Financer rapidement des recherches solides et ciblées sur la COVID-19 et ses effets à long terme; 4. Créer des cliniques pour les patients diagnostiqués comme souffrant des effets à long terme de la COVID, qu’ils aient subi ou non un test de dépistage de la COVID-19, afin d’aborder les problèmes médicaux, cognitifs, psychologiques, de réadaptation et d’emploi.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada recognizes that many Canadians who were infected with the COVID-19 virus face a long recovery. While the evidence is building, there is still much that is unknown about “long COVID”, also called “Post COVID-19 condition”. The range of symptoms linked to this condition, their evolution post-infection, and their frequency among diverse subgroups of the Canadians population are still not well understood. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is actively working in collaboration with international and Canadian experts to advance the evidence base on the long-term impacts of COVID-19 required to inform effective public health actions.Sound scientific evidence is key to addressing and recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. To that end, through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Government of Canada has invested over $250 million towards more than 400 COVID-19 research projects since March 2020. Some of these projects specifically focus on the long-term health impacts of COVID-19. CIHR has recently launched another funding competition to address research gaps in our knowledge of COVID-19, including on Post COVID-19 condition. This represents an additional investment of up to $119 million.For example, CIHR is currently funding the Canadian COVID-19 Prospective Cohort Study, which will provide a comprehensive evaluation of early and medium term (1-year) outcomes in 2,000 patients with COVID-19 infection and their family caregivers. This study is underway in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia. Such studies will yield important findings to inform surveillance efforts, as well as public health action and clinical practice.PHAC has established a number of new surveillance efforts in the context of the pandemic to guide public health measures, including on the wider health impacts of COVID-19. Surveillance of the wider health impacts includes monitoring mental health, substance use, chronic disease, and other adverse outcomes directly or indirectly linked to the pandemic and public health measures. For example, new surveys have been undertaken by PHAC in collaboration with Statistics Canada to better understand the mental health of Canadians during the pandemic.Although long COVID has been recognized and labelled by a number of organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), there is currently no agreed upon clinical case definition of Post COVID-19 condition. Therefore, the evidence base necessary to inform appropriate methodologies for routine monitoring and reporting activities is currently lacking.  PHAC and CIHR are currently collaborating with Canadian and international experts to further describe and assess Post COVID-19 condition in the Canadian population by exploring various data sources, assessing current research findings to inform approaches and definitions, and monitoring and reporting efforts. CIHR is also a member of the Global Research Collaboration for Infectious Disease Preparedness (GloPID-R), an alliance of research funding organizations on a global scale that facilitates rapid end effective research response to support new, urgent scientific priorities related to COVID-19.The Provinces and Territories are responsible for the management and delivery of health care services for their residents, including the rehabilitation and treatment services for people with long COVID. Clinics for care of patients with symptoms consistent with long COVID have been established in different locations across Canada, including Calgary’s Rockyview General Hospital and Peter Lougheed Centre, Montreal’s Clinical Research Institute, and Vancouver’s St. Paul’s Hospital.
COVID-19PandémiesRecherche médicale
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée26 mai 2021432-00766432-00766 (Économie et finance)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNPDBC12 avril 202126 mai 20214 mars 2021PÉTITION AU GOUVERNEMENT DU CANADA ET À LA CHAMBRE DES COMMUNES RÉUNIE EN PARLEMENTNous, les soussignés RÉSIDENTS DE LA PROVINCE DE LA COLOMBIE-BRITANNIQUE, attirons l’attention du gouvernement du Canada et de la Chambre des communes sur ce qui suit :La loi actuelle sur la SUCL n’autorise pas les subventions pour le loyer des locataires ayant un lien de dépendance. Nous sommes dans le domaine touristique depuis 22 ans et louons quatre unités d’un propriétaire faisant partie de la famille. Nous avons quatre baux et autant le propriétaire que le locataire ont leur propre société. Le locataire paie le loyer au prix du marché, n’a jamais manqué un paiement et n’a jamais eu de concession sur le loyer. Notre relation d’affaires se vit à 100 % sans lien de dépendance. Les deux sociétés paient des impôts indépendamment l’une de l’autre. L’industrie du tourisme a été touchée plus durement que la plupart des entreprises. 90 % de notre revenu provient des voyageurs internationaux. Notre société tombe entre les mailles du filet et nous craignons de ne pas survivre à la pandémie sans subvention au loyer. Le loyer est notre plus grosse dépense d’affaires.Par conséquent, les pétitionnaires demandent au gouvernement du Canada et à la Chambre des communes de modifier cette loi afin que les entreprises comme la nôtre soient admissibles à la SUCL.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about changes to the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy legislation so that more businesses qualify. As the Government announced on April 19th in Budget 2021, the government in proposing to extend the rent subsidy until September 25, 2021. This is a program that provides simple and easy-to-access rent support directly to small businesses. Businesses currently benefit from the up 65% rent subsidy. Combined with the lockdown support, a business can have up to 90% of their rent covered.The Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, including the Lockdown Support, was created to help organizations pay their commercial rent while facing the economic and health challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The rent subsidy delivers direct, targeted, and accessible rent support to qualifying organizations affected by the pandemic without the need to work through their landlords, and further extends this support to include property owners. This means that the rent subsidy generally not only covers commercial rent expenses, but also property taxes, property insurance, and interest on commercial mortgages. As of April 18, 2021, 162,470 organizations have received support from the CERS and Lockdown Support, representing $2.97 billion paid out since the launch of the programs.To ensure that the rent subsidy is focused on providing relief to organizations in need of support, specific requirements apply to the expenses that qualify for the program. In particular, only expenses paid or payable to an arm’s-length party are eligible under the program. This rule supports the integrity of the program by preventing subsidies from being paid in circumstances where there may be no outflow of funds from a group of non-arm’s length parties. For example, where one company owns a building that is rented to another company and both companies are wholly owned by the same entity, such companies are considered to be not at arm’s length. In such cases, the “rent” is simply a transfer of funds from one entity in the group to another and does not represent a real economic cost. However, the actual costs borne by the group, including mortgage interest, property taxes and real property insurance paid by the corporation that owns the building could be eligible expenses for the rent subsidy.Overall, the government has made sure that the rent subsidy is helping as many businesses as possible, while striking the right balance to help ensure that businesses that are in need are the ones entitled to support under this program.The government has taken other actions to help businesses that have been highly impacted by the pandemic, including those that may not be able to access certain support programs. Through the regional development agencies and the Community Futures Network of Canada, the $2 billion Regional Relief and Recovery Fund provides loans to eligible businesses unable to access emergency liquidity programs, including the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the rent subsidy, and the Canada Emergency Business Account. The government has directed the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund to provide $500 million in support of the tourism sector. As of March 4, 2021, the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund had helped protect more than 126,000 jobs and supported over 20,800 businesses, including more than 4,000 tourism businesses.
COVID-19LocationPandémiesPetites et moyennes entreprisesSubvention d'urgence du Canada pour le loyerTourisme
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée10 mai 2021432-00749432-00749 (Économie et finance)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNPDBC26 mars 202110 mai 20219 mars 2021PÉTITION AU GOUVERNEMENT DU CANADA ET À LA CHAMBRE DES COMMUNES RÉUNIE EN PARLEMENTNous, les soussignés RÉSIDENTS DE LA PROVINCE DE LA COLOMBIE-BRITANNIQUE, attirons l’attention du gouvernement du Canada et de la Chambre des communes sur ce qui suit :La loi actuelle sur la SUCL n’autorise pas les subventions pour le loyer des locataires ayant un lien de dépendance. Nous sommes dans le domaine touristique depuis 22 ans et louons quatre unités d’un propriétaire faisant partie de la famille. Nous avons quatre baux et autant le propriétaire que le locataire ont leur propre société. Le locataire paie le loyer au prix du marché, n’a jamais manqué un paiement et n’a jamais eu de concession sur le loyer. Notre relation d’affaires se vit à 100 % sans lien de dépendance. Les deux sociétés paient des impôts indépendamment l’une de l’autre. L’industrie du tourisme a été touchée plus durement que la plupart des entreprises. 90 % de notre revenu provient des voyageurs internationaux. Notre société tombe entre les mailles du filet et nous craignons de ne pas survivre à la pandémie sans subvention au loyer. Le loyer est notre plus grosse dépense d’affaires.Par conséquent, les pétitionnaires demandent au gouvernement du Canada et à la Chambre des communes de modifier cette loi afin que les entreprises comme la nôtre soient admissibles à la SUCL.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about changes to the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy legislation so that more businesses qualify. As the Government announced on April 19th in Budget 2021, the government in proposing to extend the rent subsidy until September 25, 2021. This is a program that provides simple and easy-to-access rent support directly to small businesses. Businesses currently benefit from the up 65% rent subsidy. Combined with the lockdown support, a business can have up to 90% of their rent covered.The Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, including the Lockdown Support, was created to help organizations pay their commercial rent while facing the economic and health challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The rent subsidy delivers direct, targeted, and accessible rent support to qualifying organizations affected by the pandemic without the need to work through their landlords, and further extends this support to include property owners. This means that the rent subsidy generally not only covers commercial rent expenses, but also property taxes, property insurance, and interest on commercial mortgages. As of April 18, 2021, 162,470 organizations have received support from the CERS and Lockdown Support, representing $2.97 billion paid out since the launch of the programs.To ensure that the rent subsidy is focused on providing relief to organizations in need of support, specific requirements apply to the expenses that qualify for the program. In particular, only expenses paid or payable to an arm’s-length party are eligible under the program. This rule supports the integrity of the program by preventing subsidies from being paid in circumstances where there may be no outflow of funds from a group of non-arm’s length parties. For example, where one company owns a building that is rented to another company and both companies are wholly owned by the same entity, such companies are considered to be not at arm’s length. In such cases, the “rent” is simply a transfer of funds from one entity in the group to another and does not represent a real economic cost. However, the actual costs borne by the group, including mortgage interest, property taxes and real property insurance paid by the corporation that owns the building could be eligible expenses for the rent subsidy.Overall, the government has made sure that the rent subsidy is helping as many businesses as possible, while striking the right balance to help ensure that businesses that are in need are the ones entitled to support under this program.The government has taken other actions to help businesses that have been highly impacted by the pandemic, including those that may not be able to access certain support programs. Through the regional development agencies and the Community Futures Network of Canada, the $2 billion Regional Relief and Recovery Fund provides loans to eligible businesses unable to access emergency liquidity programs, including the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the rent subsidy, and the Canada Emergency Business Account. The government has directed the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund to provide $500 million in support of the tourism sector. As of March 4, 2021, the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund had helped protect more than 126,000 jobs and supported over 20,800 businesses, including more than 4,000 tourism businesses.
COVID-19LocationPandémiesPetites et moyennes entreprisesSubvention d'urgence du Canada pour le loyerTourisme
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée10 mai 2021e-3133e-3133 (Transport)HazelBishopScottSimmsCoast of Bays—Central—Notre DameLibéralNL1 février 2021 à 9 h 52 (HAE)3 mars 2021 à 9 h 52 (HAE)25 mars 202110 mai 20213 mars 2021Pétition à la <Addressee type="1" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Chambre des communes</Addressee>Attendu que :La pandémie de COVID-19 et les restrictions connexes liées aux voyages ont eu des effets dévastateurs sur le service aérien à l’échelle du Canada et forcé les transporteurs à suspendre des trajets et à opérer à capacité réduite dans les aéroports de partout au pays;L’aéroport international de Gander, situé à Gander, à Terre-Neuve-et-Labrador, ne bénéficie pas d’un service aérien national quotidien depuis qu’Air Canada a suspendu toutes ses activités liées au transport de voyageurs;Cette perte de service aérien a des conséquences catastrophiques sur les entreprises, les résidents et les familles du centre de la province;La croissance économique et la qualité de vie dépendent de l’accès à un service aérien; Sans le soutien immédiat du gouvernement pour aider ce secteur en difficulté, le centre de Terre-Neuve demeurera désavantagé et devra attendre plus longtemps une éventuelle reprise économique.Nous, les soussignés, citoyens du Canada; électeurs de la circonscription de Coast of Bays—Central—Notre Dame; province de Terre-Neuve-et-Labrador; et résidents de la ville de Gander, demandons au gouvernement du Canada : 1) d'offrir une aide financière significative aux transporteurs aériens canadiens en difficulté, conditionnelle au rétablissement d’un service aérien national dans les aéroports abandonnés en raison de la pandémie, y compris l’aéroport international de Gander; 2) d’assurer le rétablissement du transport aérien vers le Canada continental en raison des répercussions économiques sur la région desservie par l’aéroport international de Gander.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraThe government is mindful of the devastating impacts of COVID-19 on the Canadian air sector and Transport Canada is committed in its efforts to support Canadians throughout the country, and that includes continuing to work with air sector partners to enable recovery of this crucially important sector. As first indicated in a statement by the Minister of Transport on November 8, 2020, the government committed to undertaking a process with major Canadian airlines regarding financial assistance, but any assistance would be contingent on securing important results for Canadians. This includes securing refunds for cancelled flights and ensuring that Canadians and regional communities retain air connections to the rest of Canada. This effort was reiterated in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, which also included the announcement of a series of supports for airport operators and regional air transportation.An agreement regarding financial assistance with Air Canada was announced on April 12, 2021, and it is a key milestone in ensuring the existence of a robust Canadian air transport sector that connects Canadian communities. As a result of this agreement, access to Air Canada’s network will be restored to all regional communities where service was suspended due to COVID-19, including Gander. Transport Canada’s engagement with other individual air carriers continues and we look forward to finalizing assistance details with similar requirements in the near future.In March of 2021, WestJet announced their intentions to begin restoring service to Atlantic Canada. The Government anticipates that connectivity will increase as vaccination efforts progress resulting in a reduction of travel restrictions and more financial assistance negotiations with air carriers are finalized. The Government remains committed to ensuring that Canadians and regional communities retain air connections to the rest of Canada, as we recognize that regional connectivity is important to Canadians travelling now and in the future. 
AéroportsAide gouvernementaleCompagnies aériennesCOVID-19Pandémies
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée6 mai 2021432-00701432-00701 (Économie et finance)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNPDBC23 mars 20216 mai 20219 mars 2021PÉTITION AU GOUVERNEMENT DU CANADA ET À LA CHAMBRE DES COMMUNES RÉUNIE EN PARLEMENTNous, les soussignés RÉSIDENTS DE LA PROVINCE DE LA COLOMBIE-BRITANNIQUE, attirons l’attention du gouvernement du Canada et de la Chambre des communes sur ce qui suit :La loi actuelle sur la SUCL n’autorise pas les subventions pour le loyer des locataires ayant un lien de dépendance. Nous sommes dans le domaine touristique depuis 22 ans et louons quatre unités d’un propriétaire faisant partie de la famille. Nous avons quatre baux et autant le propriétaire que le locataire ont leur propre société. Le locataire paie le loyer au prix du marché, n’a jamais manqué un paiement et n’a jamais eu de concession sur le loyer. Notre relation d’affaires se vit à 100 % sans lien de dépendance. Les deux sociétés paient des impôts indépendamment l’une de l’autre. L’industrie du tourisme a été touchée plus durement que la plupart des entreprises. 90 % de notre revenu provient des voyageurs internationaux. Notre société tombe entre les mailles du filet et nous craignons de ne pas survivre à la pandémie sans subvention au loyer. Le loyer est notre plus grosse dépense d’affaires.Par conséquent, les pétitionnaires demandent au gouvernement du Canada et à la Chambre des communes de modifier cette loi afin que les entreprises comme la nôtre soient admissibles à la SUCL.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about changes to the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy legislation. As the Government announced on April 19th in Budget 2021, the government in proposing to extend the rent subsidy until September 25, 2021. This is a program that provides simple and easy-to-access rent support directly to small businesses. Businesses currently benefit from the up 65% rent subsidy. Combined with the lockdown support, a business can have up to 90% of their rent covered.The Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, including the Lockdown Support, was created to help organizations pay their commercial rent while facing the economic and health challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The rent subsidy delivers direct, targeted, and accessible rent support to qualifying organizations affected by the pandemic without the need to work through their landlords, and further extends this support to include property owners. This means that the rent subsidy generally not only covers commercial rent expenses, but also property taxes, property insurance, and interest on commercial mortgages. As of April 18, 2021, 162,470 organizations have received support from the CERS and Lockdown Support, representing $2.97 billion paid out since the launch of the programs.To ensure that the rent subsidy is focused on providing relief to organizations in need of support, specific requirements apply to the expenses that qualify for the program. In particular, only expenses paid or payable to an arm’s-length party are eligible under the program - for example, this could include rent to an arm’s-length landlord, or property ownership costs such as mortgage interest. This rule supports the integrity of the program by preventing subsidies from being paid in circumstances where there may be no outflow of funds from a group of non-arm’s length parties. For example, where one company owns a building that is rented to another company and both companies are wholly owned by the same entity, such companies are considered to be not at arm’s length. In such cases, the “rent” is simply a transfer of funds from one entity in the group to another and does not represent a real economic cost. However, the actual costs borne by the group of non-arm’s length parties, including mortgage interest, property taxes and real property insurance paid by the corporation that owns the building could be eligible expenses for the rent subsidy.Overall, the government has made sure that the rent subsidy is helping as many businesses as possible, while ensuring program integrity and targeted support.The government has taken other actions to help businesses that have been highly impacted by the pandemic, including those that may not be able to access certain support programs. Through the regional development agencies and the Community Futures Network of Canada, the $2 billion Regional Relief and Recovery Fund provides loans to eligible businesses unable to access emergency liquidity programs, including the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the rent subsidy, and the Canada Emergency Business Account. The government has directed the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund to provide $500 million in support for businesses. As of March 4, 2021, the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund had helped protect more than 126,000 jobs and supported over 20,800 businesses.
COVID-19LocationPandémiesPetites et moyennes entreprisesSubvention d'urgence du Canada pour le loyerTourisme
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée5 mai 2021e-2961e-2961 (Maladies humaines)GiseleBaribeauDerekSloanHastings—Lennox and AddingtonIndépendantON3 novembre 2020 à 14 h 25 (HAE)1 février 2021 à 14 h 25 (HAE)22 mars 20215 mai 20211 février 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :Le gouvernement du Canada ne soumet pas les vaccins à des épreuves d’innocuité indépendantes;Les fabricants de vaccins contre la COVID-19 reçoivent l’immunité juridique et ne peuvent pas être tenus responsables juridiquement ou financièrement des dommages corporels ou des décès causés par leurs produits;Le développement des vaccins contre la COVID-19 se fait dans la précipitation;Les protocoles standard de sécurité, exigés par mesure de prudence, sont laissés de côté, comme en ce qui concerne l’expérimentation animale;Les vaccins contre la COVID-19 qui sont en cours de développement ne font pas l’objet d’essais les mettant en comparaison avec un placebo inerte et font appel à des technologies d’injection de matériel génétique manufacturé encore jamais mises en œuvre;Les effets néfastes à long terme de la vaccination contre la COVID-19 pourraient ne pas être connus avant de nombreuses années;Aucun vaccin contre le coronavirus n’a encore été approuvé, compte tenu des effets graves observés, y compris la mort d’animaux de laboratoire, en raison de l’injection préalable de pathogènes;Les vaccins contre la COVID-19 ne sont pas conçus pour empêcher l’infection ou la transmission; Le contournement des protocoles de sécurité applicables signifie que la vaccination contre la COVID 19 équivaut véritablement à une expérimentation humaine.Nous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de1- Préserver et protéger notre droit éthique, légal et moral au consentement éclairé;2- S’assurer que la vaccination contre la COVID-19 est juridiquement volontaire. Ce choix doit pouvoir être exercé sans désavantage ou préjudice;3- Exiger que les études sur l’innocuité des vaccins respectent des normes atteignant ou dépassant celles appliquées aux autres produits pharmaceutiques;4- Créer un comité indépendant comprenant un large éventail de membres représentant les parties concernées, dont des citoyens militant pour l’innocuité des vaccins;5- Veiller à ce qu’aucun membre du comité n’ait de conflit d’intérêts de nature intellectuelle ou financière avec l’industrie pharmaceutique ou médicale;6- Conférer à ce comité le pouvoir d’examiner de manière indépendante les demandes d’approbation de tous les vaccins, y compris ceux contre la COVID-19;7- Élaborer un programme d’indemnisation contre les dommages corporels causés par les vaccins, dans le cadre duquel les fabricants de vaccins seraient responsables de payer tous les coûts relatifs à l’indemnisation des personnes mortes ou ayant subi des dommages corporels en raison de leurs vaccins.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada recognizes that vaccination is an important and valuable public health measure to protect the health of Canadians. The goal of Canada’s pandemic response is to prevent serious illness and death while minimizing societal disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While vaccines are not mandatory in Canada, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines can help achieve this goal.Immunization allows individuals to protect themselves from vaccine-preventable diseases, and supports the greater good by protecting families, close contacts, communities and society as a whole. Decisions on the use of vaccines, reporting of vaccination status, and eligibility to receive publicly funded vaccinations are made at the provincial/territorial level. None of Canada’s provinces or territories currently have a policy of mandatory vaccination for any disease, nor has this approach ever been taken in Canada. Some provinces and territories require mandatory reporting of vaccinations for school entry, but this is to increase the ability of public health officials to respond during an outbreak. Vaccination is a personal choice and Canadians should feel empowered to make their own informed choices.All vaccines used in Canada are regulated by Health Canada and must meet rigorous standards for safety, efficacy and quality before their use is authorized. Health Canada regulates the drug approval process under the Food and Drugs Act (FDA) and its regulations, and all drugs, including biologic drugs (also known as biologics), are regulated based on rigorous standards of evidence.Health Canada regulates vaccines for human use in Canada by applying strict requirements, which are informed by science and are aligned with international standards. The review teams for drugs, including COVID-19 vaccines, are comprised of experienced regulatory and scientific experts that make recommendations based solely on scientific evidence. Health Canada reviewers are scientists and physicians with many years of experience reviewing vaccines, and with expertise in different domains including, but not limited to, clinical medicine, toxicology and pharmacology, biochemistry, virology, immunology, microbiology, and other scientific disciplines relevant to the development, testing and manufacture, and quality control of vaccines.For COVID-19 vaccines, the Interim Order Respecting the Importation, Sale and Advertising of Drugs for Use in Relation to COVID-19 introduced new regulatory mechanisms to expedite the authorization of COVID-19 drugs, including vaccines, while protecting the health and safety of Canadians. These mechanisms have enabled Health Canada to review and authorize COVID-19 vaccines as quickly as possible without compromising on safety, efficacy, and quality. Guidelines for COVID-19 vaccines were developed in alignment with international regulators and the World Health Organization (WHO). The guidelines call for the minimum standards of efficacy and safety, ensuring that the number of vaccine recipients and length of safety follow up are sufficient, and efficacy is demonstrated.Health Canada is working closely with domestic and international partners to anticipate and meet Canadians' health product needs. This involves discussing, collaborating, and leveraging resources on multiple issues, including vaccine safety. Notably, Health Canada is an active member of the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA) and medicine regulators from Australia, Canada, Singapore, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom (ACCESS) Consortiums. Health Canada upholds the WHO-ICMRA joint statement on the need for improved global regulatory alignment on COVID-19 medicines and vaccines, promoting the most rigorous, evidence-based regulatory practices by supporting the alignment of regulatory processes across all countries. The Department also follows the Access Consortium statement on COVID-19 vaccines evidence, which delineates the requirements for safety, efficacy, quality, and pharmacovigilance activities for COVID-19 vaccines.Regulatory authorization of a vaccine, including COVID-19 vaccines, requires a submission from a manufacturer that includes substantial evidence of safety and efficacy from several clinical trials, as well as evidence of manufacturing quality. The Department conducts an in-depth review of the required evidence for safety, efficacy, and quality of the vaccine before an approval is issued. Health Canada requires that clinical trial results be generated from properly designed protocols so that safety and efficacy of vaccines can be well demonstrated, such as whether the appropriate immune response to prevent a disease is elicited. The Department also requires manufacturing data demonstrating consistency and quality in production of the vaccine.To further support Health Canada’s efforts to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines, the Interim Order provides the authority to impose terms and conditions on an authorization at any time, such as risk mitigation measures and additional assessments of safety, efficacy, and immunity information. This means that Health Canada can require further information from the manufacturer as well as require the submission of additional information to ensure that the benefits of the vaccine continue to outweigh the risks.Health Canada is committed to ensuring that regulatory decisions are independent, and based solely on science and evidence. As well, the Department is committed to openness and transparency in sharing information with Canadians. When an external advisory body is instituted to provide advice to the Department, Health Canada ensures that its members do not have direct interests related to the body’s work, and that relevant affiliations and interests are disclosed publicly to the extent possible.Specifically, the Health Canada Policy on External Advisory Bodies includes a chapter on affiliations and interests. Per this policy, a potential member must complete and submit the Affiliations and Interests Declaration Form within the period set out by the advisory body Secretariat before appointed to an advisory body. A potential member must use the form to disclose all affiliations and interests, including any direct financial interests and other affiliations and interests that relate to the mandate of the advisory body. These might include financial support received from a commercial enterprise, participation in an activity sponsored by a commercial enterprise, or published or publicly stated points of view related to the advisory body's mandate.As part of the Department’s continued commitment to openness and transparency, Health Canada publishes detailed information about the authorized COVID-19 vaccines on the Department’s COVID-19 Vaccines and Treatments Portal, including Canadian product monographs, and regulatory decision summaries, which provide a high-level summary of the evidence that was reviewed to support the authorization of the vaccine.As with all vaccines, Health Canada will continue to monitor the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines once they are on the market and will not hesitate to take action if any safety concerns are identified. Canada has a strong post-market safety surveillance system in place to detect any adverse events, even years after vaccination. Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) share the responsibility of monitoring the safety of vaccines in Canada. Vaccine marketing authorization holders are required to report serious adverse events following immunization to the Canada Vigilance Program in Health Canada. The Canada Vigilance Program also receives voluntary reports from healthcare professionals and consumers. Health Canada and PHAC also provide weekly updates on reported adverse events following immunization.Provincial and territorial public health authorities report Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFIs) from publicly-funded vaccine programs to the Canadian Adverse Events Following Immunization Surveillance System (CAEFISS) in PHAC to monitor the safety of immunization programs. Health providers are also required to follow local or provincial public health protocols and submit reports to the appropriate jurisdictional authority.Health Canada continues to monitor safety concerns of marketed vaccine products and update the product monograph, should new safety information emerge. The product monographs can be found in the Drug Product Database. For COVID-19 vaccines, this information can be found in the COVID-19 vaccines and treatments portal. Communication to the public about vaccine safety will continue to be a coordinated approach between all levels of government, healthcare professionals, and vaccine manufacturers.Vaccinations are administered by trained professionals who follow established protocols. Serious and permanent vaccine injuries are rare in Canada. However, as with any medical product, they can occur. On December 10, 2020, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the creation of a pan-Canadian no-fault Vaccine Injury Support Program (VISP). The VISP will ensure that people in Canada who support public health by being vaccinated have access to financial support should they experience a serious and permanent injury or death as a result of vaccination with a Health Canada authorized vaccine. Building on the model that has been in place in Quebec for over 30 years, this pan-Canadian program will ensure fair and equitable access to support for all individuals vaccinated in Canada. The VISP will strengthen immunization programming in Canada, and bring Canada in line with a growing number of countries who have similar programs in place. 
ConsentementCOVID-19Essais de sécuritéImmunisationIndemnisationMéthodes expérimentalesPandémiesPanels d'examen
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée26 avril 2021432-00680432-00680 (Santé)PaulManlyNanaimo—LadysmithParti vertBC12 mars 202126 avril 20214 mars 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communes réunie en Parlement ATTENDU QUE :
  • La majorité des communications et des mesures préconisées par les responsables de la santé relativement à la COVID-19 concerne l’éloignement physique, le port du masque, la désinfection des mains, la recherche des contacts et la vaccination;
  • les produits naturels essentiels et éprouvés pour le système immunitaire et les pratiques de santé holistique ont reçu moins d’attention quant à leur rôle en matière de soins de santé préventifs;
  • une approche holistique et complémentaire en matière de santé serait plus abordable pour les contribuables que le traitement des maladies;
  • de nombreux Canadiens investissent déjà dans des stratégies d’immunité naturelle, d’autogestion proactive de la santé et de prévention;
  • manger des légumes frais, faire de l’exercice, gérer le stress, boire de l’eau, marcher à l’air frais et au soleil et bien dormir sont des mesures simples et rentables pour améliorer la fonction immunitaire et le bien-être global;
  • il a été démontré que la vitamine D réduit substantiellement les symptômes de la COVID-19;
  • de nombreux Canadiens ont une carence en vitamine D pendant l’hiver, en plus de devoir s’isoler chez eux pour des raisons de sécurité, sans prendre de suppléments;
  • d’autres vitamines et nutriments essentiels au fonctionnement optimal du système immunitaire et à la santé globale, comme la vitamine C, le zinc, le sélénium et les extraits de plantes, montrent des résultats prometteurs dans la prévention de la COVID-19;
  • une plus grande attention et une meilleure sensibilisation à l’égard des solutions de santé naturelles aideraient à optimiser le fonctionnement du système immunitaire des Canadiens, ce qui améliorerait leur qualité de vie et leur productivité;
PAR CONSÉQUENT, nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, demandons respectueusement que le gouvernement du Canada : 1) sensibilise et autonomise les Canadiens à l’égard des approches holistiques afin d’optimiser et de maintenir leur immunité naturelle et leur bien-être. 2) Couvre les pratiques pour le maintien de la santé et les soins de bien-être en vertu de la Loi canadienne sur la santé, y compris les soins de chiropraxie, la massothérapie, l’acupuncture et la médecine homéopathique et naturopathique. 3) Appuie, encourage et améliore l’accès des Canadiens aux services de santé holistique et aux produits naturels. 4) Incorpore les mesures et les pratiques de renforcement du système immunitaire dans les messages sur la prévention de la COVID-19.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is responsible for establishing and administering legislation and regulations for natural health products. Health Canada recognizes that, for many Canadians, natural health products are an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including helping to maintain and support immune function.Since 2004, natural health products in Canada have been regulated under the Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR) to help provide Canadians access to a wide range of natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality. The NHPR were created to differentiate natural health products from prescription and non-prescription drugs, which are regulated under the Food and Drug Regulations.Natural health products are generally low-risk products (such as vitamin and mineral supplements and herbal products), meant to be used by individuals for minor, non-serious conditions. However, low-risk does not mean no risk. That is why Health Canada reviews the safety, efficacy and quality of natural health products prior to their entry on the Canadian market, in accordance with the NHPR. Health Canada has not received an application for a product containing Vitamin D with claims to reduce symptoms associated with COVID-19. Claims related to prevention of COVID-19 infection or symptomatic treatment of COVID-19 are considered higher risk and would require a high degree of supporting scientific evidence prior to approval for this use.The Department is committed to making sure that Canadians have the information they need to make informed choices. For this reason, Health Canada has been focusing on improving the labelling of natural health products so that these labels are easier for consumers to read, supporting them in selecting and safely using these products. These changes are not expected to impact the availability of natural health products for consumers. For more information on Health Canada’s regulation of natural health products, please visit our website.Although the federal government plays a crucial role in supporting health care by providing funding to the provinces and territories, the provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services. This includes determining which services to cover under their respective health care insurance plans. Under the Canada Health Act, a province or territory must provide coverage for medically necessary hospital and physician services (i.e., insured health services, including access to holistic health services) to their eligible residents. Wellness care and practices aimed at sustaining health, including chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and homeopathic and naturopathic medicines, are part of a range of additional services and benefits, which are outside the scope of the Act, and may be provided at provincial and territorial discretion, on their own terms and conditions. 
COVID-19PandémiesProduits de santé naturelsSanté publique
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée26 avril 2021e-3054e-3054 (Économie et finance)ScarletOsbornePatrickWeilerWest Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky CountryLibéralBC21 décembre 2020 à 9 h 20 (HAE)20 janvier 2021 à 9 h 20 (HAE)12 mars 202126 avril 202126 janvier 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="2" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada </Addressee>Attendu que : La pandémie de COVID-19 a provoqué une crise dans le tourisme d’accueil; Dans l’après-fermeture, la capacité plafonnée à 50 % fera encore baisser les revenus;Lles coûts de fonctionnement ont monté en flèche à cause des protocoles de sécurité renforcés;La SSUC, le CUEC, la SUCL se sont révélés essentiels pour conserver des emplois; La deuxième vague de COVID-19 a davantage tari les revenus. Nous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de : 1. soutenir les nouvelles entreprises du tourisme d’accueil non admissibles à la SSUC, au CUEC et à la SUCL parce qu’elles n’affichaient aucun revenu en 2019, ni en janvier et février 2020, notamment (i) les entreprises qui ont ouvert leurs portes depuis le 1er mars et qui ont été forcées de suspendre ou de baisser leurs activités sur-le-champ, (ii) les entreprises prêtes à ouvrir après le 15 mars, mais qui en ont été empêché à cause des directives régionales ou provinciales; 2. modifier les conditions d’admissibilité à la SSUC et à la SUCL en fonction d’un niveau propre aux entreprises de cette industrie afin d’inclure celles capables de démontrer leur engagement irrévocable dans un projet par la voie d’un bail à long terme (d’au moins cinq ans) avec une clause de non-résiliation (ou d’une convention d’achat-vente pour l’acquisition d’une propriété commerciale) conclu avant le 15 mars 2020 ainsi que l’investissement ou le réinvestissement de capitaux totalisant plus de 100 000 $ effectué avant le 30 juin 2020; 3. se servir d’une autre méthode de calcul de la SSUC et de la SUCL pour ces nouvelles entreprises, qui soit à l’image des taux de subventions moyens dans l’industrie, au lieu d’utiliser les revenus des années antérieures (soit fournir le même niveau de soutien aux autres restaurants).
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe government has introduced numerous measures to support Canadians and Canadian businesses, non-profits and charities that face economic uncertainty and challenges because of the pandemic. These include, among others,  the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, and the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA).The wage subsidy and the rent subsidy are broad-based, legislated programs and as such, require straightforward, objective rules that can accommodate businesses and organizations of all sizes and sectors, while still maintaining the integrity of the programs. The current revenue-decline test allows comparisons between an organization’s pre-COVID-19 revenues and its revenues during the pandemic, helping estimate the impact of the pandemic on its revenue. Similarly, CEBA is also a broad-based program, and the requirement that businesses must be in operation in Canada on March 1, 2020 helps to ensure verification and loan approval process, while maintaining the integrity of the program.The government has additionally taken steps to help businesses that have been highly impacted by the pandemic, but may not be able to access certain support programs. Through the regional development agencies and the Community Futures Network of Canada, the $2 billion Regional Relief and Recovery Fund provides loans to eligible businesses that are unable to access emergency liquidity programs, such as the wage subsidy, rent subsidy, and CEBA. New businesses currently unable to access emergency liquidity programs may be eligible for other Government of Canada lending programs that support entrepreneurs, including the Canada Small Business Financing Program and financing available through the Business Development Bank of Canada.The federal government continues to actively assess its support measures to ensure workers and businesses have the support they need. We will continue to be there for Canadians and businesses – as we have been since the start of the pandemic.
COVID-19PandémiesPetites et moyennes entreprisesSubvention d'urgence du Canada pour le loyerSubvention salariale d'urgence du CanadaTourisme
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée26 avril 2021e-2928e-2928 (Éducation et formation)PattyFacyDanielBlaikieElmwood—TransconaNPDMB3 novembre 2020 à 14 h 27 (HAE)1 février 2021 à 14 h 27 (HAE)12 mars 202126 avril 20211 février 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada </Addressee>Attendu que :Le gouvernement canadien a mis en œuvre un gel des remboursements des prêts d’études fédéraux et des intérêts afférents du 30 mars au 30 septembre en raison de la pandémie de COVID-19;Ce gel des remboursements chevauchait la période antérieure de non-remboursement du 30 avril au 30 octobre pour les diplômés du printemps 2020, n’offrant aucun avantage supplémentaire aux étudiants de niveau postsecondaire diplômés pendant la pandémie;Plus d’un étudiant de niveau postsecondaire sur trois a vu son placement en milieu de travail annulé ou reporté en raison de la pandémie de COVID-19 (Reynolds, 2020);Le taux de chômage des jeunes au Canada est passé de 10,3 % en février 2020 à un sommet historique de 29,4 % en mai 2020 (Frenette et coll., 2020);On prévoit que la cohorte formée cette année par les diplômés des niveaux secondaire et postsecondaire perdra 25 000 $ ou plus au cours des cinq prochaines années en raison des répercussions de la COVID-19 sur l’économie canadienne (Frenette et coll., 2020);Plus de la moitié des étudiants de niveau postsecondaire ayant obtenu un diplôme cette année ont une dette d’études moyenne de 28 000 $ (McKenzie-Sutter, 2020);nous, soussignés, résidents du Canada, demandons au gouvernement du Canada de prolonger de six mois la période de non remboursement des prêts d’études fédéraux pour les étudiants qui obtiennent un diplôme en 2020, afin que les étudiants diplômés pendant la pandémie de COVID-19 puissent profiter du même gel de six mois des remboursements des prêts d’études fédéraux et des intérêts afférents offert plus tôt cette année aux autres bénéficiaires de prêts d’études fédéraux.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada recognizes the challenges students face in accessing post-secondary education and is committed to ensuring that post-secondary education remains affordable and student debt manageable. The Government also recognizes that challenges have been compounded and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.The Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP) provides needs-based and targeted Canada Student Grants (CSG) and Canada Student Loans (CSL) to help students’ access post-secondary education, and offers the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty.Over the last year, in recognition that post-secondary students and their families may be facing financial hardship during the pandemic, the Government of Canada brought forward a number of enhancements to the CSLP. First, from March 30, 2020 to September 30, 2020, no interest was charged on CSLs and Canada Apprentice Loans (CAL), and no payments were required. This relief measure was automatically applied and benefited approximately 1.1 million students in repayment. The Government has also taken steps to ensure that borrowers who continue to face financial challenges following the end of the repayment freeze are aware that if they apply for RAP, no payments would be required if they are making less than $25,000 per year.Furthermore, the Government introduced:
  • The Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB), which provided financial support from May to August 2020 to students and recent graduates who were unable to work or could not find work due to COVID-19, or were working but did not expect to make more than $1,000 (before taxes) over the four-week period for which they were applying. Eligible students received $1,250 per month, and students with dependants or a disability received an additional $750 per month, for a total of $2,000 per month. More than 700,000 students received close to $3 billion in financial support through the CESB.
  • Increased grants and loans supports for the 2020-2021 school year, so that students facing financial difficulties could access and afford post-secondary education. The value of CSGs was doubled for all eligible full-time students (up to $6,000 per year), and part-time students (up to $3,600 per year). CSGs for students with permanent disabilities and dependants were also doubled. The weekly cap on CSLs was increased from $210 to $350. The expected contribution from students and their spouses in determining the amount of financial aid a student can receive was removed. Taken together, it is expected that these measures will benefit approximately 765,000 returning and prospective students.
Finally, in the November 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Government announced the temporary elimination of interest on CSLs and CALs, in order to ease the financial burden of student loan repayment during the economic recovery. Pending parliamentary approvals and at a cost of$329.4 million, this measure would take effect on April 1, 2021, and be in place for one year, bringing much needed relief to 1.4 million Canadians who are in repayment of their federal student loans.These historic investments, combined with other investments made in recent years, signify the Government of Canada’s ongoing commitment to ensure that post-secondary education is affordable and that student debt is manageable during these challenging times.
Allocations de formation et prêts aux étudiantsCOVID-19FraisPandémiesProgramme canadien de bourses et prêts aux étudiants
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée12 avril 2021432-00584432-00584 (Affaires et commerce)KellyMcCauleyEdmonton-OuestConservateurAB26 février 202112 avril 202112 février 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communesNous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada, attirons l’attention de la Chambre des communes sur ce qui suit :Attendu que le gouvernement a reconnu publiquement que ce sont les petites entreprises qui subiront de plein fouet le ralentissement économique provoqué par la pandémie de COVID-19.Par conséquent, nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, exhortons le gouvernement du Canada d’adopter les recommandations de 2017 du Groupe de travail pour l’emploi en Alberta, et qu’il mette sur pied un comité bipartite, qui serait composé d’un nombre égal de membres, afin d’élaborer un plan d’action pour les petites entreprises qui tienne compte des réalités de toutes les collectivités au Canada, et pas seulement de celles qui font pencher le résultat des élections dans un certain sens.
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Parliamentary Secretary Rachel BendayanRepresenting 98% of businesses in Canada, small businesses are the cornerstone of the Canadian economy and pillars in their local communities. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting small businesses as they recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and thrive into the future.While the majority of businesses in Canada have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, smaller businesses have been significantly more affected. Small businesses are more likely to experience a decrease in revenue and have less liquidity, and more likely to be unable to take on more debt and to be considering bankruptcy in the current economic environment. Since the beginning of this pandemic, the Government of Canada has supported Canadian businesses of all sizes and in all sectors who have been impacted by COVID-19 and its economic fallout.The Government of Canada took immediate action to support those businesses, particularly by introducing new measures as part of Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, the largest economic assistance program in our history. The Government of Canada will continue to preserve hundreds of thousands of jobs by working to help the hardest-hit sectors (particularly tourism and hospitality, airlines, retail, aerospace, oil and gas) and by providing additional support for other businesses which have been hit the hardest, including Main Street businesses, as well as women- and minority-owned businesses.As the pandemic continues to evolve, so does Canada’s approach. In September's Speech from the Throne, the Government committed to take further steps to help vulnerable businesses pull through. In particular, the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy has been extended through to June 2021. More than 1.9 million claims have been approved to date. The updated Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy is a significant program that responds directly to the feedback the Government has heard from Canadian businesses. These measures have been extended until June 2021 and expanded to allow tenants to apply directly to the program, without going through their landlord to get the support their business needs to keep their doors open. Additionally, the Canadian Emergency Business Account (CEBA), which initially provided $40,000 loans to eligible small businesses to help with fixed costs, is now raised to $60,000. This funding is provided at zero interest until December 31, 2022, and 25% is forgivable if paid before that date. Also, the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF), provides over $1.5 billion in assistance to businesses and communities that may require additional support to cope with and recover from the pandemic. Furthermore, in February 2021, the Government implemented the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP) Guarantee, a credit availability program with 100% government-backed loan support and favourable terms for businesses that have lost revenue as people stay home to fight the spread of the virus.In recognition of the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, Canada provided a targeted response to support women entrepreneurs specifically. The Government has provided an additional $15 million in funding to the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) Ecosystem Fund, enabling existing recipient organizations to provide thousands of women entrepreneurs with access to urgent business support in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, on September 9, 2020, Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the Black Entrepreneurship Program, the first of its kind in Canada. This program is designed to break down systemic barriers to start, maintain, and grow a business among Black entrepreneurs. The Government is also providing funding of up to $306.8 million to help small and medium-sized Indigenous businesses, and to support Aboriginal Financial Institutions that offer financing to these businesses. This measure will help an estimated 6,000 Indigenous-owned businesses get through the pandemic. Furthermore, to support young entrepreneurs through this pandemic, the Government provided $20.1 million to Futurpreneur Canada, a key national organization aimed at helping young Canadians develop their business ideas and access financing.The Government of Canada is committed to examining any further supports needed to ensure that Canadian small businesses can continue to remain viable now and in the future.
COVID-19PandémiesPetites et moyennes entreprisesRalentissement économique
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée12 avril 2021432-00582432-00582 (Affaires et commerce)ArifViraniParkdale—High ParkLibéralON26 février 202112 avril 202110 juillet 2020Pétition au gouvernement du CanadaPar conséquent, nous soussignés, résidents du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de veiller à ce que les institutions financières ne puissent exiger des petites entreprises des frais de traitement des transactions par carte de crédit de plus de 0,5 % pendant la pandémie de la COVID-19.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government has taken action through the COVID-19 Economic Response Plan to ensure that Canadians have timely access to comprehensive financial supports to weather these challenging times. We are particularly mindful that small businesses have been among the hardest hit by the pandemic. The Government is taking strong, immediate and effective action to protect Canadians and the economy from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.As part of this support, the Government is continuing to pay close attention to the issue of payment acceptance costs for small businesses.Payment card networks in Canada have made individual voluntary undertakings to reduce credit card acceptance fees and have adopted the Code of Conduct for the Credit and Debit Card Industry in Canada.Visa and Mastercard entered into separate voluntary undertakings with the federal government to reduce domestic consumer interchange fees to an annual average effective rate of 1.40 per cent and narrow the range of interchange rates charged to merchants. The agreements came into effect in May 2020 and will be in place for a five-year period. The card networks are required to provide annual verification by an independent third party, confirming their adherence to the commitments. The first annual verifications are expected this summer and will be reviewed closely by the Department of Finance.The commitments are expected to save small and medium-sized businesses in Canada $250 million per year. These undertakings are making credit card acceptance fairer for small and medium sized enterprises, which have less bargaining power than larger merchants to negotiate lower rates.In addition to the undertakings, the Code of Conduct for the Credit and Debit Card Industry in Canada increases fairness, transparency and choice for merchants with respect to payment card acceptance. The Department of Finance has recently launched a review of the Code to ensure it remains fit for purpose.
Banques et services bancairesCOVID-19Frais d'interchangePandémiesPetites et moyennes entreprises
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée12 avril 2021e-3027e-3027 (Affaires et commerce)WilliamMorrisonTonyBaldinelliNiagara FallsConservateurON9 décembre 2020 à 17 h 07 (HAE)7 février 2021 à 17 h 07 (HAE)26 février 202112 avril 20218 février 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada </Addressee>Attendu que : le secteur canadien du voyage et du tourisme a été le premier à subir les contrecoups de la pandémie de COVID-19, il est le plus durement touché par celle-ci et il sera celui qui prendra le plus de temps à s’en remettre; les politiques que le gouvernement du Canada a prises en réponse à la pandémie de COVID-19 forcent de nombreuses entreprises à fermer leurs portes de manière temporaire ou définitive, mais surtout involontaire; les politiques en vigueur créent un grave problème de chômage au Canada qui n’existerait pas autrement, surtout si les décisions avaient été fondées sur des preuves, sur la science et sur les faits; le gouvernement du Canada a trop attendu pour offrir des soutiens particuliers au secteur du voyage et du tourisme qui a été le plus durement touché; la confiance du public et la demande pour la reprise des voyages intérieurs et internationaux ont atteint un creux historique depuis mars 2020. Nous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de : 1. présenter un plan de relance propre au tourisme d’ici le jour du budget fédéral de 2021; 2. veiller à ce que le plan de relance du tourisme réponde aux besoins particuliers des nombreuses filières dans le secteur du voyage et du tourisme au Canada;3. voir à ce que le plan de relance du tourisme soutienne un programme urgent et complet pour la mise au point, la distribution et de l’administration des vaccins approuvés par Santé Canada ainsi que des appareils de dépistage rapide;4. s’assurer que le plan de relance du tourisme comporte des directives sanitaires propres au secteur afin que les filières reprennent leurs activités de façon sécuritaire et responsable;5. se servir du plan de relance du tourisme pour rétablir la confiance du public dans les voyages et le tourisme.
Response by the Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustrySigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Mélanie Joly, P.C., M.P.The health and safety of Canadians is the Government of Canda’s top priority. The Government of Canada continues to work with provinces and territories to take the measures that are necessary to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 and its variants in Canada. To date, the Government of Canada has invested over $1 billion to secure access to promising vaccine candidates. This includes up-front payments that companies require to support vaccine development, testing and at-risk manufacturing. Subsequent payments are contingent on vaccines passing clinical trials and obtaining regulatory approval.The Government of Canada recognizes that pandemic restrictions have taken a very heavy toll on jobs, businesses, and communities. The tourism sector was the first hit by COVID-19, the hardest hit, and will be among those that take the longest to recover.From the start of the pandemic, the Government of Canada has introduced broad-based measures to support the Canadian economy, many of which have helped the tourism sector. This includes financial support for employees who cannot work because of COVID-19, subsidies for wages and rent, and loans to provide liquidity relief. Approximately $9.7 billion was  estimated in the Fall Economic Update to have flowed to tourism businesses through the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, Canada Emergency Business Account and the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance.In addition, the Government of Canada has introduced measures targeting the tourism sector. For example, in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, the Government of Canada announced the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program –  a new credit facility that provides government-guaranteed, low-interest loans of up to $1 million for businesses in the hardest hit sectors, like tourism and hospitality. This program was launched on February 1, 2021.The Government of Canada also earmarked 25 percent of the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund to tourism businesses, representing $500 million. The Regional Relief and Recovery Fund provides assistance to businesses to allow them to continue their operations, including paying their employees, and supports projects by businesses, organizations and communities to prepare now for a successful recovery.The Government of Canada will continue to work with partners and stakeholders to identify effective ways to support the recovery of this important sector.
COVID-19PandémiesReprise économiqueSanté et sécurité au travailTourisme
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée12 avril 2021e-3039e-3039 (Affaires étrangères)RimzyKuthubdeenSalmaZahidScarborough-CentreLibéralON16 décembre 2020 à 14 h 04 (HAE)14 février 2021 à 14 h 04 (HAE)23 février 202112 avril 202115 février 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="4" affiliationId="253367" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada </Addressee>Attendu que : Le gouvernement du Sri Lanka a ordonné l’incinération obligatoire de tous les défunts dont le décès est attribué au virus de la COVID-19;Cette ordonnance a été prise de façon arbitraire, ne repose sur aucune preuve scientifique et va à l’encontre des lignes directrices de l’Organisation mondiale de la Santé (OMS);Les Canadiens d’origine sri-lankaise sont préoccupés par cette situation et se font l’écho des voix qui s’élèvent dans le monde entier pour dénoncer la pratique de l’incinération forcée.Nous soussignés, citoyens du Canada d’origine sri-lankaise, prions le gouvernement du Canada d’emprunter les voies officielles et de demander au gouvernement du Sri Lanka de respecter les sentiments religieux et culturels des communautés minoritaires musulmanes et chrétiennes en leur redonnant le droit humain fondamental d’inhumer leurs victimes de la COVID-19, conformément aux directives de l’OMS.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe promotion and protection of human rights, democracy and fundamental freedoms are an integral part of Canada’s foreign policy and Canada has long advocated for the global protection of freedom of religion or belief, including the rights of faith and belief minorities. In this regard, Canada has engaged directly with the Government of Sri Lanka to express its concern regarding reports of forced cremation of those deceased from COVID-19, a decision that has disproportionately affected the minority Muslim community.As member of the Core Group responsible for United Nations Human Rights Council resolutions on Sri Lanka, Canada has consistently expressed concern over the targeting of minorities and marginalization of minority groups in the pandemic response. At the Council’s 44th session (June 2020), the Core Group reiterated that extraordinary measures to tackle COVID-19 should not be used to roll back human rights, including freedom of religion and belief.At the Council’s 46th session (February-March 2021), Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs highlighted Sri Lanka’s deteriorating human rights situation and Canada’s Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated that Sri Lanka’s forced cremation policy would fuel further divisions. At the Session, through Core Group efforts, the Council adopted a new resolution which advances accountability in Sri Lanka by mandating the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights ‘to collect, consolidate, analyse and preserve information and evidence’ of gross violations of human rights and humanitarian law. The continued reporting and the attention of the UNHRC will assist in monitoring ongoing human rights concerns in the country.Although Sri Lanka has revoked its policy of forced cremation for those deceased from COVID-19, Canada will monitor the implementation of new burial measures to ensure that the rights of religious minorities are respected, consistent with World Health Organization guidelines. Further, Canada will continue to urge the Government of Sri Lanka to uphold its human rights obligations, end impunity and undertake a comprehensive accountability process for all violations and abuses of human rights.
COVID-19Décès et funéraillesPandémiesPolitique étrangèreSri Lanka
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée12 avril 2021e-3057e-3057 (Transport)KathleenYurchesynJaimeBattisteSydney—VictoriaLibéralNS21 décembre 2020 à 11 h 13 (HAE)20 janvier 2021 à 11 h 13 (HAE)18 février 202112 avril 202126 janvier 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada </Addressee> Attendu que :La pandémie de COVID-19 et les restrictions de voyage connexes ont un effet dévastateur sur le service aérien à l’échelle du Canada;Cette situation a obligé les compagnies aériennes à suspendre des liaisons et à réduire les services aux aéroports partout au pays;En raison de ces suspensions, l’aéroport J.A. Douglas McCurdy, à Sydney, en Nouvelle Écosse, a perdu tous ses services aériens commerciaux indéfiniment, ce qui a entraîné des pertes d’emplois en plus d’avoir coupé le lien aérien avec notre île;Cette perte de services aériens a des conséquences catastrophiques directes sur notamment notre établissement d’enseignement postsecondaire, notre secteur touristique, notre communauté d’affaires et nos travailleurs en rotation, en nous empêchant de soutenir notre économie et de la développer de quelque façon, chaque aspect de notre économie étant dépendant de la liaison aérienne;Cette situation est sans précédent et toute l’économie de notre région est en jeu;Sans une intervention gouvernementale immédiate, il faudra des années, voire des décennies, pour rétablir ce lien arien perdu et notre capacité de croissance économique en tant que région.Nous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada , prions le gouvernement du Canada d’aider financièrement notre industrie aérienne afin que les transporteurs aériens nationaux puissent rétablir le service aérien commercial aux aéroports, y compris l’aéroport J.A. Douglas McCurdy à Sydney, en Nouvelle Écosse.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraThe Government of Canada understands the needs and deep challenges faced by Canadian airports and the air transport industry in general right now, including J.A. Douglas McCurdy Airport located in Sydney, Nova Scotia.Transport Canada has been working with a range of air industry participants, the organizations that represent them, and other government departments to analyze the current situation and develop appropriate options to support Canada’s air transport sector generally, and ensure that Canadians have the services they need at a reasonable cost.Through the Fall Economic Statement, the Government announced $1.1 billion in financial support for the air sector through a series of targeted measures designed to support regional connectivity, critical infrastructure investments, and the continued operation of Canada’s airports.The Government of Canada is engaging with Canada’s major air carriers regarding potential options for financial assistance. Any assistance the Government of Canada provides will come with strict conditions to protect Canadians and the public interest.The Government will also ensure Canadians and regional communities retain air connections to the rest of Canada, as we recognize that regional connectivity is important to Canadians travelling now and in the future.In addition, as stated in the Speech from the Throne, the Government will work to support regional routes for airlines to ensure that Canadians have reliable and affordable regional air services to support equity, jobs and economic development.The Government understands that financial supports need to align with plans for a safe restart and recovery and will continue engagement with stakeholders to ensure alignment of our efforts.
AéroportsAide gouvernementaleCOVID-19Pandémies
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée12 avril 2021432-00522432-00522 (Santé)PaulManlyNanaimo—LadysmithParti vertBC17 février 202112 avril 202115 février 2021Pétition à la Chambre des communes réunie en Parlement ATTENDU QUE :
  • La majorité des communications et des mesures préconisées par les responsables de la santé relativement à la COVID-19 concerne l’éloignement physique, le port du masque, la désinfection des mains, la recherche des contacts et la vaccination;
  • les produits naturels essentiels et éprouvés pour le système immunitaire et les pratiques de santé holistique ont reçu moins d’attention quant à leur rôle en matière de soins de santé préventifs;
  • une approche holistique et complémentaire en matière de santé serait plus abordable pour les contribuables que le traitement des maladies;
  • de nombreux Canadiens investissent déjà dans des stratégies d’immunité naturelle, d’autogestion proactive de la santé et de prévention;
  • manger des légumes frais, faire de l’exercice, gérer le stress, boire de l’eau, marcher à l’air frais et au soleil et bien dormir sont des mesures simples et rentables pour améliorer la fonction immunitaire et le bien-être global;
  • il a été démontré que la vitamine D réduit substantiellement les symptômes de la COVID-19;
  • de nombreux Canadiens ont une carence en vitamine D pendant l’hiver, en plus de devoir s’isoler chez eux pour des raisons de sécurité, sans prendre de suppléments;
  • d’autres vitamines et nutriments essentiels au fonctionnement optimal du système immunitaire et à la santé globale, comme la vitamine C, le zinc, le sélénium et les extraits de plantes, montrent des résultats prometteurs dans la prévention de la COVID-19;
  • une plus grande attention et une meilleure sensibilisation à l’égard des solutions de santé naturelles aideraient à optimiser le fonctionnement du système immunitaire des Canadiens, ce qui améliorerait leur qualité de vie et leur productivité;
PAR CONSÉQUENT, nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, demandons respectueusement que le gouvernement du Canada : 1) sensibilise et autonomise les Canadiens à l’égard des approches holistiques afin d’optimiser et de maintenir leur immunité naturelle et leur bien-être. 2) Couvre les pratiques pour le maintien de la santé et les soins de bien-être en vertu de la Loi canadienne sur la santé, y compris les soins de chiropraxie, la massothérapie, l’acupuncture et la médecine homéopathique et naturopathique. 3) Appuie, encourage et améliore l’accès des Canadiens aux services de santé holistique et aux produits naturels. 4) Incorpore les mesures et les pratiques de renforcement du système immunitaire dans les messages sur la prévention de la COVID-19.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Jennifer O'ConnellThe Government of Canada is responsible for establishing and administering legislation and regulations for natural health products. Health Canada recognizes that, for many Canadians, natural health products are an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including helping to maintain and support immune function.Since 2004, natural health products in Canada have been regulated under the Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR) to help provide Canadians access to a wide range of natural health products that are safe, effective and of high quality. The NHPR were created to differentiate natural health products from prescription and non-prescription drugs, which are regulated under the Food and Drug Regulations.Natural health products are generally low-risk products (such as vitamin and mineral supplements and herbal products), meant to be used by individuals for minor, non-serious conditions. However, low-risk does not mean no risk. That is why Health Canada reviews the safety, efficacy and quality of natural health products prior to their entry on the Canadian market, in accordance with the NHPR. Health Canada has not received an application for a product containing Vitamin D with claims to reduce symptoms associated with COVID-19. Claims related to prevention of COVID-19 infection or symptomatic treatment of COVID-19 are considered higher risk and would require a high degree of supporting scientific evidence prior to approval for this use.The Department is committed to making sure that Canadians have the information they need to make informed choices. For this reason, Health Canada has been focusing on improving the labelling of natural health products so that these labels are easier for consumers to read, supporting them in selecting and safely using these products. These changes are not expected to impact the availability of natural health products for consumers. For more information on Health Canada’s regulation of natural health products, please visit our website.Although the federal government plays a crucial role in supporting health care by providing funding to the provinces and territories, the provincial and territorial governments have primary jurisdiction in the administration and delivery of health care services. This includes determining which services to cover under their respective health care insurance plans. Under the Canada Health Act, a province or territory must provide coverage for medically necessary hospital and physician services (i.e., insured health services, including access to holistic health services) to their eligible residents. Wellness care and practices aimed at sustaining health, including chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, and homeopathic and naturopathic medicines, are part of a range of additional services and benefits which are outside the scope of the Act, and may be provided at provincial and territorial discretion, on their own terms and conditions. 
COVID-19PandémiesProduits de santé naturelsSanté publique
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée22 mars 2021e-2892e-2892 (Affaires étrangères)StéphaneHandfieldAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatrieNPDQC22 octobre 2020 à 15 h 29 (HAE)21 novembre 2020 à 15 h 29 (HAE)4 février 202122 mars 202123 novembre 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :26 enfants canadiens nés dans l’État islamique sont actuellement détenus dans les camps kurdes du nord-est de la Syrie; La plupart n’ont pas encore six ans; Des familles canadiennes ont interpellé le gouvernement du Canada pour qu’il reconnaisse leur citoyenneté et les rapatrie, mais en vain;Ces enfants canadiens vivent depuis bientôt deux ans dans des conditions inhumaines, camps surpeuplés, eau insalubre, malnutrition et violence; Il y a urgence;Le gouvernement du Canada prétend que la situation en Syrie est trop dangereuse pour s’y rendre; L’équipe du documentaire Les poussières de Daech est entrée en Syrie et a accédé aux camps; Ils ont rencontré l’administration kurde de Syrie qui a offert son aide au gouvernement du Canada;Le 5 octobre 2020, une fillette prisonnière dans les camps a été rapatriée; Ce précédent montre que le gouvernement du Canada, contrairement à ses dires, peut agir sur le terrain;En n’agissant pas, le gouvernement du Canada (i) ne remplit pas la promesse faite à ses citoyens de fournir des services consulaires efficaces et de l’aide d’urgence en tout temps, (ii) contrevient à la Convention sur la réduction des cas d’apatridie, qu’il a entérinée en 1961, (iii) contrevient à la Convention internationale des droits de l’enfant, qu’il a entérinée en 1989, (iv) représente mal le pays progressiste qu’est le Canada.Nous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de rapatrier immédiatement les 25 enfants canadiens innocents qui vivent dans des conditions inhumaines dans les camps du nord-est de la Syrie.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantThe Government of Canada is aware of Canadian citizens being detained by Kurdish authorities in northeastern Syria and is particularly concerned with cases of Canadian children.Global Affairs Canada actively engages Syrian Kurdish authorities to seek information on Canadians in their custody and continues to monitor the situation very closely. Consular officials communicate with Syrian Kurdish authorities to advocate, on an ongoing basis, for the well-being of Canadians in their custody The department also maintains contact with extended family members. When issues regarding the well-being of Canadians are brought to the attention of consular officials, the Government of Canada raises these with the Syrian Kurdish authorities and requests appropriate intervention. Global Affairs Canada is cognizant of the sensitivities surrounding consular cases involving children and is providing consular assistance to the extent possible. However, given the security situation on the ground, the Government of Canada's ability to provide consular assistance in Syria is extremely limited. Canada's embassy in Syria closed in 2012 and Canada has no diplomatic representation in the country at this time.The security environment in northeastern Syria is highly complex and unpredictable. Intermittent combat operations between various armed actors remain ongoing. There is also an active terrorist threat from several violent extremist organizations. In the absence of diplomatic presence, and given the important security risks, Government of Canada officials do not travel to northeastern Syria and are limited in the assistance they can provide to Canadians. In October 2020, the Government of Canada did provide assistance to a Canadian orphan living in northeastern Syria to bring the child safely to Canada to be united with their extended family. This case involved a unique set of circumstances which called for an exceptional response.The Canadian Consular Services Charter outlines the consular services the Government of Canada may provide to Canadians. Each consular case has unique facts and circumstances. There will be circumstances in which Canada’s ability to provide consular support may be limited. In certain locations, such as countries without permanent consular staff, Canada’s ability to provide even basic consular services could be severely limited. This is currently the case in Syria.Canada remains committed to helping partners address humanitarian needs in Syria. As part of Canada’s strategy in the Middle East, Canada has committed over $497 million in humanitarian assistance funding in Syria since 2016. This includes support to partners delivering assistance to displaced persons in northeast Syria, including through international NGOs and UN partners.
Canadiens à l'étrangerCOVID-19EnfantsPandémiesRapatriementSyrie
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée22 mars 2021432-00481432-00481 (Ressources naturelles et énergie)LaurelCollinsVictoriaNPDBC4 février 202122 mars 202128 janvier 2021Pétition au gouvernement du Canada ATTENDU QUE :
  • La COVID-19 a entraîné un ralentissement prolongé des marchés du pétrole. Les agences de prévision annoncent la fin de la croissance de la demande en pétrole, nombre de pays effectuant la transition vers les énergies propres et les grandes pétrolières faisant passer aux pertes et profits leurs investissements dans les sables bitumineux.
  • Le coût du Projet d’expansion du pipeline de Trans Mountain (TMX) a plus que doublé, passant à 12,6 milliards de dollars. Compte tenu des retards de construction, la facture totale pourrait être beaucoup plus élevée, et ce sont les contribuables canadiens qui paieront la note.
  • Dans une lettre au gouvernement fédéral, plus de 100 économistes et spécialistes de la politique énergétique canadiens ont mis en doute la viabilité économique du projet TMX et ont demandé à la ministre des Finances de reporter toutes nouvelles dépenses, qui mettraient en péril l’argent des contribuables canadiens.
  • Le gouvernement fédéral a acheté le pipeline de Trans Mountain après que le secteur privé s’est retiré du projet en raison de risques financiers.
  • En septembre 2020, seulement 5,25 % du pipeline avaient été installés sur le tracé du projet TMX, alors que des milliards de dollars restent à dépenser et pourraient être réaffectés. D’autres projets de pipeline déjà en cours au Canada répondront aux besoins futurs associés au projet TMX subventionné par le gouvernement fédéral.
  • Des investissements ambitieux dans l’économie propre sont requis afin de respecter les engagements climatiques du Canada en vertu de l’Accord de Paris, et de créer des emplois dont ont grandement besoin les secteurs durement touchés par la pandémie et le ralentissement de l’industrie pétrolière.
  • Il n’y a pas de place pour le projet Trans Mountain dans la reprise verte que le gouvernement a adoptée pour relancer l’économie après la COVID-19. Des investissements publics doivent plutôt être faits dans l’établissement d’une économie résiliente à faibles émissions de carbone, pour faire face à la double crise économique et climatique.
PAR CONSÉQUENT, nous, soussignés, résidents du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de reporter toutes dépenses supplémentaires relatives au projet de Trans Mountain jusqu’à ce qu’ait été effectuée une analyse coûts-avantages tenant compte des changements qu’ont subi l’économie et les marchés depuis la COVID-19, et d’accorder la priorité aux investissements dans les énergies propres dès maintenant.
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandThe Government thanks the petitioners for expressing their views about Canada making additional investments in the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (TMEP).The environment and the economy go hand-in-hand. When we create prosperity today, we can invest in the clean jobs, technologies, and infrastructure of the future — and help Canadians benefit from opportunities presented by a rapidly changing economy.The key to creating prosperity is finding new markets for our businesses to sell their products and services. Nowhere is the need to diversify greater than for our energy sector, where 99 per cent of our conventional resources are sold to one market — and often at large discounts.Canadians understand that we need to open up new international markets, in order to get a full and fair price, support workers and their families, and foster competitiveness.The Government’s approval of TMEP was based on the confidence that:
  • strong environmental protections have been and continue to be put in place, and that the effects of TMEP can be mitigated through conditions and recommendations outlined by the National Energy Board, as well as measures including the historic $1.5 billion Oceans Protection Plan and the national climate plan.
  • consultations with Indigenous peoples involved meaningful, two-way dialogue, which fulfilled the legal duty to consult and helped identify new accommodation measures and conditions to appropriately address potential impacts on Indigenous rights and concerns expressed by Indigenous communities.
On February 7, 2020, TMC announced that its Board of Directors had approved a total cost estimate of $12.6 billion to bring TMEP into service by the end of 2022.Once TMEP enters into service, TMC expects to earn tolls that more than cover the cost of constructing the TMEP. These tolls are underwritten by long-term agreements with shippers for 80 per cent of TMEP’s capacity for 15 and 20 years. The final toll charged to shippers will be determined only after the TMEP enters into service based on the final construction cost.Trans Mountain’s experience with the current pipeline system also demonstrates the robust demand for export capacity to tidewater. Since the onset of the global pandemic in March 2020 and a corresponding collapse in oil demand, the Trans Mountain pipeline continued to be fully utilized while other pipelines struggle with demand.In addition, the Government launched the second step of its engagement process with Indigenous groups on June 9, 2020, to explore the possibility of Indigenous economic participation in the Project. In this step of the engagement process, the Government is focused on building consensus on the form of economic participation in the Project preferred by participating Indigenous groups: equity and/or revenue sharing; and identifying or supporting the formation of one or more entities to represent participating Indigenous groups in negotiations with Canada.By moving forward with TMEP, the Government is creating jobs, diversifying markets, accelerating Canada’s clean energy transition, and opening up new avenues for Indigenous economic prosperity.
COVID-19Dépenses publiquesPandémiesPétrole et gazPipeline Trans Mountain
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée22 mars 2021e-3029e-3029 (Affaires et commerce)JudithCoatesMarcDaltonPitt Meadows—Maple RidgeConservateurBC30 décembre 2020 à 11 h 00 (HAE)29 janvier 2021 à 11 h 00 (HAE)4 février 202122 mars 20211 février 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="4" affiliationId="214333" mp-riding-display="1">ministre des Transports</Addressee>Attendu que :Les conseillers en voyages canadiens fournissent aux transporteurs aériens et aux voyagistes des services qui profitent à leurs clients communs;Les transporteurs aériens canadiens ont besoin d’une aide financière pour subsister;Le ministre des Transports a annoncé que toute entente en matière d’aide financière aurait pour conditions que les transporteurs aériens remboursent les consommateurs pour les vols annulés en raison de la pandémie de COVID-19 et que les conseillers en voyages soutiennent le remboursement des consommateurs;Les conseillers en voyages canadiens approuvent la proposition de rembourser les consommateurs;Les agences de voyages et les services de conseillers en voyages canadiens sont de petites entreprises dont la principale source de revenus réside dans les commissions versées par les transporteurs aériens et les voyagistes pour leurs services; Quoiqu’ils l’aient rarement fait, les transporteurs aériens et leurs voyagistes au Canada ont depuis longtemps pour politique de récupérer les commissions versées aux conseillers en voyages pour les services qu’ils ont fournis lorsque les clients annulent leurs vols;L’association canadienne des agences de voyages estime à 8 milliards de dollars le montant des remboursements à verser aux consommateurs, ce qui équivaut à 200 millions de dollars en commissions reprises;Depuis la mi-mars, les conseillers en voyages travaillent pour leur clientèle sans toucher de revenu. De nombreux conseillers en voyages auront à rembourser de leur poche au-delà de 10 000 $ en commissions pour les vols annulés en raison de la pandémie de COVID-19, mais en seront incapables puisqu’ils n’ont aucun revenu depuis mars 2020, ce qui mènera plusieurs agences de voyages et conseillers en voyages indépendants à la faillite.Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions le ministre des Transports d’exiger que toute subvention ou tout prêt soit accordé à la condition que les conseillers en voyages puissent conserver les commissions qu’ils ont reçues des transporteurs aériens et de leurs voyagistes pour les services fournis.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Omar AlghabraThe Government of Canada is working to support Canada’s air transportation network. Air transport has faced difficulty during the pandemic.  The government has encouraged Canadians to avoid non-essential international travel and has also implemented strong measures including travel restrictions and quarantine policies, in order to protect Canadians from COVID-19 and the spread of the virus.Transport Canada’s objective is to ensure Canadians continue to have access to air services that connect them to other parts of Canada and the rest of the world, and obtain refunds for flights cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On November 8, 2020, the Government of Canada announced it would develop a package of assistance to Canadian airlines. This was further reiterated in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, which also included details regarding support for airports. Strict conditions will be applied to any federal assistance to ensure that public policy objectives are met, including requiring air carriers to offer refunds to passengers whose tickets were cancelled due to the pandemic.On December 21, 2020, a Ministerial Direction was issued to provide the Canadian Transportation Agency with the authority to develop a new regulation on the issue of refunds to passengers.  This new regulation will apply to future flights that are cancelled for reasons outside an air carrier’s control, such as a pandemic, and where it is not possible for the carrier to complete the passenger’s itinerary within a reasonable timeframe. The new regulation will also ensure that a similar situation does not occur again in the future.Travel agencies and their agents play a vital role in the air travel system, both in terms of assisting Canadians wanting to explore the world beyond Canada’s borders and welcoming tourists to Canada, and by virtue of the latter, they also play an important part in supporting jobs and businesses dependent on tourism.The approximately 24,000 travel agents across the country showcase the entrepreneurial spirit of women and small business in Canada. The Government recognizes the work undertaken by many to repatriate Canadians during the onset of the pandemic. The Government also understands the unique business model of travel agents, the impact of COVID-19, and the importance of commissions as a means of fair compensation for services rendered.Currently, the Government is engaged in active discussions with air carriers and related conditions as they pertain to a sectorial recovery package. Transport Canada recognizes that travel agencies may be affected by these measures, and the Government will give close consideration to this situation as the department finalizes any potential financial assistance to air carriers.      
Agences de voyagesCompagnies aériennesCOVID-19PandémiesRemboursement
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée22 mars 2021e-3007e-3007 (Affaires et commerce)HeidiHurstJagSahotaCalgary SkyviewConservateurAB30 novembre 2020 à 10 h 57 (HAE)30 décembre 2020 à 10 h 57 (HAE)29 janvier 202122 mars 20214 janvier 2021Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada </Addressee>Attendu que: Les agents de voyage ont travaillé sans relâche tout au long de la pandémie pour protéger les voyageurs canadiens au pays et à l’étranger et prendre soin d’eux;Les fournisseurs de voyages (compagnies aériennes, croisiéristes et voyagistes) cherchent à récupérer les commissions (salaires) dûment gagnées par les agents de voyage pour compenser les remboursements aux consommateurs; Les agents sont donc censés payer aux fournisseurs ce qui équivaut à la majorité de leurs revenus gagnés cette année; Cet argent proviendra des autres programmes mis en place par le gouvernement dans le cadre de la pandémie de COVID-19 (c.-à-d. la PCU et la PCRE) puisque la plupart des agents de voyage n’ont pas fait de revenus au cours des neuf derniers mois; Cette mesure pourrait également entraîner la faillite personnelle de beaucoup d’entre eux;Les plans de renflouement du gouvernement pour les secteurs du transport aérien et du voyage tels qu’ils sont actuellement proposés auront un effet financier écrasant sur les agents et sur les agences de voyages, dont la main-d’œuvre est majoritairement féminine (plus de 80 %) et dont le salaire est basé sur des commissions;Les fournisseurs de voyages ne récupèrent pas les salaires de leur personnel interne lorsqu’un voyageur est remboursé; Les agents de voyages sont favorables au remboursement des consommateurs et continueront à gérer ces dossiers pour les fournisseurs;Il convient d’offrir un soutien supplémentaire, rétroactif à la déclaration de pandémie ou à l’avis concernant les voyages non essentiels émis le 13 mars 2020, aux agents déjà tenus de rembourser des dizaines de milliers de dollars, afin d’éviter que les travailleurs canadiens n’aient à déclarer faillite pour soutenir les grandes entreprises.Nous, soussignés, résidents du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de considérer les agences de voyages comme des effectifs externes des fournisseurs de voyages et d’inclure cette réserve dans toute condition de renflouement des fournisseurs, pourvu que les commissions des agences de voyages payées par le passé ne soient pas soumises à des recouvrements, mais soient plutôt considérées comme un coût irrécupérable (personnel).
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandWe remain committed to supporting airlines and air sector workers during this unprecedented and difficult time for the industry.Since the beginning of the pandemic, the air sector has already received over $1.8 billion in support through the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy.In the Fall Economic Statement we announced over $1 billion in support for airports and smaller airlines. This includes supporting regional air transportation; investments in health and safety infrastructure; and rent relief.Any further taxpayer support will prioritize:
  • Refunding Canadians for cancelled flights;
  • Retaining and reinstating regional routes in Canada; and
  • Protecting jobs across the air sector.
We continue to emphasize this in our ongoing conversations with the airlines.
Agences de voyagesCompagnies aériennesCOVID-19PandémiesRemboursement
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée12 mars 2021e-3066e-3066 (Affaires sociales et égalité)SabrinaZimmermannPaulManlyNanaimo—LadysmithParti vertBC24 décembre 2020 à 10 h 56 (HAE)23 janvier 2021 à 10 h 56 (HAE)27 janvier 202112 mars 202126 janvier 2021Pétition à la <Addressee type="1" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Chambre des communes</Addressee>Attendu que :La Prestation canadienne d’urgence (PCU) a été créée afin d’offrir un soutien financier aux employés et employés autonomes canadiens qui ont été directement touchés par la COVID-19;Après l’échéance de la PCU le 26 septembre 2020, l’Agence du revenu du Canada (ARC) a envoyé des lettres à 441 000 Canadiens ayant reçu la PCU pour les avertir qu’ils pourraient avoir à rembourser jusqu’à 14 000 $ parce qu’ils étaient inadmissibles;Quand le gouvernement a commencé à accepter les demandes de PCU, il n’a pas précisé si les Canadiens devaient déterminer leur admissibilité en se basant sur leur revenu d’emploi autonome brut ou net;Des agents de l’ARC ont donné des informations erronées sur le fait que l’admissibilité était fondée sur le revenu d’emploi autonome brut out net; Les Canadiens ayant fait une demande de PCU de bonne foi ne devraient pas être pénalisés pour des erreurs ou des conseils erronés venant du gouvernement concernant leur admissibilité.Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada d'autoriser rétroactivement les employés autonomes canadiens à se baser sur leur revenu d’emploi brut avant impôt et avant dépenses d’affaires pour déterminer leur admissibilité à la PCU.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views on the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB). The Government acknowledges the challenges self-employed Canadians have faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic.The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) provided temporary income support to workers who stopped working for reasons related to COVID-19. The CERB provided $500 per week for a maximum of 28 weeks. It was available from March 15, 2020, to October 3, 2020.On February 9, 2021, the Government of Canada announced that self-employed individuals who applied for the CERB and would have qualified based on their gross income will not be required to repay the benefit, provided they also met all other eligibility requirements. The same approach will apply whether the individual applied through the Canada Revenue Agency or Service Canada.This means that self-employed individuals whose net self-employment income was less than $5,000 and who applied for the CERB will not be required to repay the CERB, as long as their gross self-employment income was at least $5,000 and they met all other eligibility criteria.Some self-employed individuals whose net self-employment income was less than $5,000 may have already voluntarily repaid the CERB. Additional details will be available in the coming weeks.Once again, the Government of Canada wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views have helped inform the Government’s ongoing efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19PandémiesPrestation canadienne d’urgenceProcessus de demandeRevenus et salairesTravailleurs indépendants
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée25 janvier 2021e-2818e-2818 (Culture et patrimoine)BuddHallLaurelCollinsVictoriaNPDBC1 septembre 2020 à 11 h 14 (HAE)31 octobre 2020 à 11 h 14 (HAE)20 novembre 202025 janvier 20212 novembre 2020Pétition à la <Addressee type="1" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Chambre des communes</Addressee>Attendu que :De nombreux musiciens du Canada risquent de disparaître;Les musiciens du Canada, les employés de soutien audio et technique et le secteur canadien de la musique en direct feront partie de l’un des derniers secteurs de l’économie à se remettre de la pandémie;Sans revenus tirés des spectacles, bon nombre de nos musiciens bien connus seront forcés de quitter leur carrière en musique, et que des musiciens de la relève n’auront jamais la chance de se lancer dans une telle carrière;Les musiciens professionnels du Canada se produisent en moyenne 96 fois par an, mais que selon un sondage national réalisé par Music Canada, le nombre moyen de représentations prévues pour le reste de 2020 est de seulement huit et plus de la moitié des musiciens n’ont aucune représentation prévue et que, jusqu’à maintenant, les représentations prévues pour 2021 sont moins nombreuses qu’à l’habitude;Les plateformes de diffusion numérique en continu ne remplacent pas les spectacles en direct, qu’une étude d’Abacus Data montre que la plupart des Canadiens souhaitent pouvoir à nouveau assister à des spectacles de musique en direct, y compris les 89 % d’entre eux qui assistent à des spectacles en direct régulièrement;Il y a plusieurs mesures de soutien économique ciblées pour certaines parties de l’industrie de la musique provenant de FACTOR, du Conseil des arts du Canada et d’organismes provinciaux, mais il y a un ensemble disparate de mesures de soutien pour l’écosystème canadien de la musique et peu de programmes qui aident directement les musiciens.Nous, soussignés, résidents du Canada, prions la Chambre des communes de : 1. Garantir l’accès au financement de la PCU ou de son équivalent aux musiciens et aux membres du personnel de soutien technique jusqu’à l’été 2021;2. Financer et d’élargir la portée des modèles de soutien à l’écosystème de la musique comme la campagne SoundON de la Colombie-Britannique à l’échelle du pays;3. Créer des fonds qui sont directement versés aux musiciens pour des projets de création de contenu musical par l’entremise de plateformes virtuelles.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKThe Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) was an important and necessary temporary response to support Canadians who stopped working because ofCOVID-19.The CERB provided $500 per week for up to 28 weeks, for eligible workers, including the self-employed, who stopped working or lost their income due to COVID-19.  While many Canadians have returned to work since the start of the pandemic, the Government of Canada recognizes that many workers continue to need support, including those in the arts and culture sector.As part of the Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, the Government has transitioned from the CERB to a simplified Employment Insurance (EI) program, effective September 27, 2020, to provide income support to eligible workers who remain unable to work. Recognizing that many workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic will have lost their jobs or worked reduced hours, a set of temporary measures have been introduced to facilitate access to EI benefits.The Government of Canada also introduced a suite of three new benefits to support economic recovery and help Canadians who remain unable to work for reasons related to COVID-19.Among these new supports, the Canada Recovery Benefit supports individuals who are not employed or self-employed due to the COVID-19 pandemic or are working and have had a reduction of at least 50 percent in their employment/self-employment income for reasons related to COVID-19 and are not eligible for EI. The Canada Recovery Benefit is available for up to 26 weeks between September 27, 2020, and September 25, 2021. Canadians receiving this Benefit need to be available and looking for work and accept work where it is reasonable to do so. Workers who receive the Canada Recovery Benefit and have an annual net income greater than $38,000 will be required to repay some or all of the benefit through the tax filing process.Additional information on other recovery benefits is available at this link: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2020/10/backgrounder.html 
Response by the Minister of Canadian Heritage Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Julie DabrusinThe Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding the financial and artistic impact of COVID-19 on Canadian musicians and technical support workers.The pandemic immediately halted the live music sector and caused significant financial losses across the value network. Live music had become the largest economic driver for the music industry and its absence has created further challenges to develop and promote Canadian artists, much of which relies on building audiences through live performances in Canada and abroad. A return to pre-COVID-19 activity levels is not expected for the next few years.On September 9, 2020, the Minister of Canadian Heritage led a town hall on the music industry to better understand the financial pressures facing cultural organizations and artists. Participants discussed new models to improve artist remuneration and proposed recovery measures to support the sector’s recovery.  The Government of Canada continues to provide financial support to Canadian artists and the music industry during the COVID-19 crisis through various mechanisms, described below.Canada Music Fund and Emergency Support FundCanada Music FundThe Department of Canadian Heritage (PCH), through the Canada Music Fund (CMF), provides direct financial support to Canadian music artists and entrepreneurs for the production and marketing of commercial music recordings, touring, showcasing, conferences, award shows and other events that enhance the visibility of Canadian artists. The CMF is administered by FACTOR for the English-language market and Musicaction for the French-language market.The CMF supports different gender and identity groups of Canadian artists and entrepreneurs in both English and French-language markets, including Canadian artists of all racialized backgrounds and in different musical genres.The CMF’s current reference level is $24.75 million. In Budget 2019, the CMF received $20 million over two fiscal years (2019-2020 and 2020-2021) to support a program modernization that opened funding to a wider spectrum of recipients who develop and promote Canadian artists. The 2020 Fall Economic Statement extended that additional funding for 2021-22. In a typical year, the CMF supports:
  • The production of over 500 albums by Canadian artists from a wide variety of genres.
  • Over 2,500 artist marketing, touring and showcasing projects allowing Canadian artists to expand their fan base at home and abroad.
  • Some 800 performances of artists from official language minority communities.
  • Bootcamps to support the development of artists’ business and artistic skills to reflect the changes in monetization streams and support new digital skills required for livestreams.
  • Around 300 collective promotional projects including:
    • Events showcasing hundreds of Canadian artists to international audiences and talent buyers.
    • Projects promoting Canadian music on a multitude of digital platforms.
    • Numerous conferences, award shows and other industry events.
On April 1, 2020, the CMF was modernized with a reformulated objective to increase the focus on artist promotion and to foster an environment where a diversity of Canadian music artists connect with audiences everywhere. The Program was also restructured according to new business models, opening flexible comprehensive envelope funding to a wide range of entrepreneurs who are integral to building audiences for Canadian artists.The modernized Canada Music Fund is well-positioned to directly assist Canadian artists and music entrepreneurs amidst this unprecedented industry upheaval. The funding flexibility offered through the modernization’s expanded comprehensive envelope will support recipients’ key activities, with incentives to invest in new artists, indigenous artists, visible minorities, and artists from official language minority communities. In addition, the modernized CMF will continue to emphasize the development of artists' business and artistic skills, more critical than ever in the face of constant change.Emergency Support FundOn May 8, 2020, the Minister of Canadian Heritage announced a $500M Emergency Support Fund (ESF) for temporary relief to the culture and sports sector.For culture, the fund was distributed through departmental programs and portfolio agencies such as: Canada Periodical Fund, Canada Book Fund, Canada Music Fund (via FACTOR and Musicaction), Canada Arts Training Fund, Canada Arts Presentation Fund, Harbourfront Centre Funding Program, Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program, Canada Council for the Arts and Telefilm Canada. A two-phased approach was taken in order to accelerate the distribution of funds. Through Phases 1 and 2, the CMF delivered a total of $32.9 million in emergency support to 879 recipients who are key to artist development career. Phase 2 of CMF ESF funding included support for Canadian music entrepreneurs and organizations in the live music sector that do not normally receive funding from the CMF, including music venues, booking agents, concert promoters and for-profit festivals, to maintain jobs and stay in business.Recipients had to demonstrate that their main activities are central to the career development of Canadian artists, the promotion of Canadian music content and audience development.The CMF ESF funds were used to support the Canadian portion of eligible music activities related to Canadian artists, including payments to artists and freelance workers, administrative expenses, and fixed operational costs. Funding must not have been used to cover expenses already supported by other COVID-19 government emergency measures. Note that some recipients used a portion of their funding to present virtual live performances.Coordinated Response The Government’s financial support to the music industry and artists is multifaceted. Complementary to the commercial focus of the CMF as described above, the Canada Council for the Arts (CCA) provides direct financial assistance to Canadian artists and supports the development of experimental, non-mainstream music. Further, the Canada Arts Presentation Fund (CAPF) supports music festivals and performing arts series in communities all across Canada. PCH undertook a rapid, coordinated response to provide urgent relief to the music industry, arts and cultural organizations through ESF support delivered via the CMF, CAPF, and the CCA.Building on the ESF, the 2020 Fall Economic Statement included $181.5M to support the planning and presentation of COVID-19 safe events and the arts in 2021-22 – including both live and digital - and to provide work opportunities to artists and workers in these sectors. This amount includes a one-year renewal of additional funding for the CAPF and the CMF originally provided in Budget 2019.
COVID-19FondsMusique et musiciensPandémiesPrestation canadienne d’urgence
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée25 janvier 2021e-2737e-2737 (Économie et finance)JefferyMoreauEricMelilloKenoraConservateurON13 août 2020 à 17 h 02 (HAE)11 novembre 2020 à 17 h 02 (HAE)9 décembre 202025 janvier 202112 novembre 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada </Addressee>Attendu que : La survie du tourisme est capitale pour la reprise économique du Canada; Les entreprises touristiques du Canada sont durement frappées à cause des fermetures liées à la pandémie de COVID-19; Beaucoup d’entreprises touristiques au Canada dépendent des visiteurs étranger et ne peuvent reprendre leurs activités tant que la frontière est fermée; Les programmes de soutien aux entreprises actuellement proposés par le gouvernement fédéral ne sont pas optimaux pour les industries saisonnières; Sans soutien, bien des exploitants d’entreprises touristiques risquent de mettre la clé sous la porte; L'économie locale de nombreuses régions, en particulier le Nord de l’Ontario, dépend lourdement des entreprises touristiques et des visiteurs qu’elles attirent;La fermeture permanente d’entreprises touristiques provoquera des répercussions dévastatrices à long terme sur toute l’économie. Nous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de fournir une aide financière directe aux exploitants d’entreprises touristiques.
Response by the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): THE HON. MÉLANIE JOLY, P.C., M.P.The Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views on the importance of providing direct financial relief to tourism operators who are dealing with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.The Government of Canada recognizes the tremendous importance of tourism to the Canadian economy, and its particular importance to the economy of Northern Ontario. Approximately 750,000 workers and 2 per cent of Canada’s GDP are attributed to tourism. Small and medium sized firms dominate the tourism sector and it employs a higher proportion of youth, women and Indigenous people compared to their share of the workforce. Domestic and international tourism is also a key economic generator and an important source of jobs in many rural and northern regions of the country.We also understand the COVID-19 pandemic has created many hardships for businesses, and that tourism operations across Canada, and outfitters in Northern Ontario whose livelihoods depend almost completely on the US market, have been particularly hard hit. The government has heard first-hand from many tourism operators and sector associations regarding the serious economic consequences of the pandemic on tourism businesses. This feedback, including the petition you have submitted, is vital to helping inform the Government of Canada’s efforts in developing and tailoring policies and programs in support of Canadian businesses that have been impacted.Recognizing that the pandemic restrictions have taken a toll on Canada’s tourism industry—on jobs, businesses and communities— the government has provided support to businesses through a variety of new and evolving programs through Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan. These programs have been designed with diverse, hard hit sectors like tourism and hospitality in mind.To date, approximately $9.7 billion is estimated to have flowed to businesses in these sectors through the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, Canada Emergency Business Account and the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance. The government has also implemented the Canada Recovery Benefit and made changes to the Employment Insurance program to better protect workers during this time.To help support those businesses unable to access these and other federal pandemic support programs, the government announced the $962-million Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) on April 17, providing significant funding through Canada’s Regional Development Agencies, including FedNor in Northern Ontario. The government increased funding on October 2, bringing total support to more than $1.5 billion.
  • $568 million for Western Economic Development
  • $34 million for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
  • $72 million for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario (FedNor)
  • $436 million for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
  • $281 million for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
  • $170 million for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
As of Fall 2020, this program has protected over 102,000 jobs and supported over 14,700 businesses, including over 8,500 clients in rural areas and 5,100 women-owned businesses. The RRRF has also provided $202 million in support to 2,830 tourism-related businesses.Most recently, as part of its Fall Economic Statement, the Government of Canada has proposed a new top-up of up to $500 million, on a cash basis, to Regional Development Agencies and the Community Futures Network of Canada, bringing total funding to over $2 billion for the RRRF. Recognizing the importance of this Fund in supporting local tourism businesses, the government has earmarked a minimum of 25 per cent of its resources to support local tourism businesses, providing more than $500 million in program support through June 2021.Further, to specifically help highly-affected sectors like tourism and hospitality that have struggled to access sufficient financing during this crisis, the government is currently working with financial institutions to offer loans on more generous terms by creating a new program for highly affected businesses. This new program for the hardest hit businesses will offer 100 percent government-guaranteed financing for heavily impacted businesses, and provide low-interest loans of up to $1 million over extended terms, up to 10 years. The government will provide details about the new program for highly affected businesses soon.While the various initiatives and funding now being offered by the Government of Canada have played a vital role in keeping businesses afloat during this period of uncertainty, we understand the journey ahead will continue to be difficult and of unknown duration, and that it will require additional creative solutions to support tourism businesses in particular. The government will continue to work with partners and stakeholders to identify the best ways to support the longer term rebound and recovery of this important sector.
COVID-19PandémiesPetites et moyennes entreprisesTourisme
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée25 janvier 2021e-2655e-2655 (Citoyenneté et immigration)Joycede PaulaElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsParti vertBC10 juin 2020 à 14 h 23 (HAE)10 juillet 2020 à 14 h 23 (HAE)30 octobre 202025 janvier 202113 juillet 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="4" affiliationId="253396" mp-riding-display="1">ministre de l’Immigration, des Réfugiés et de la Citoyenneté </Addressee>Attendu que :L’économie canadienne a grandement bénéficié du succès de son secteur de l’exportation de l’éducation, qui contribue au PIB du Canada à hauteur d’environ 21,6 milliards de dollars par an et a créé 170 000 emplois pour les Canadiens;L’intégration des compétences des étudiants étrangers dans la main-d’œuvre canadienne est d’une importance capitale pour l’économie canadienne;Le Programme canadien de permis de travail post-diplôme (PPTP) constitue un attrait considérable pour les étudiants étrangers potentiels, car il permet aux diplômés étrangers de prouver leur viabilité sur le marché du travail canadien et d’entamer éventuellement leur demande de résidence permanente;Le permis de travail post-diplôme est délivré pour une durée très limitée, et ne peut être accordé qu’une seule fois, ce qui fait que les diplômés internationaux sont soumis à de fortes contraintes de temps pour accumuler une expérience professionnelle qualifiée;Jusqu’à présent, la réponse du gouvernement canadien à la COVID-19 n’a pas pris en compte les répercussions sur la planification et l’investissement à long terme des étudiants étrangers ni sur l’économie canadienne, si les diplômés n’ont pas la possibilité de prouver leur valeur pendant leur période de PPTP en raison des pénuries de travail et des licenciements liés à la COVID-19; Lorsque le Canada a eu besoin d’étudiants étrangers pour combler les pénuries en première ligne pendant la pandémie de COVID-19, nous étions là pour le Canada, maintenant nous demandons au Canada d’être là pour nous.Nous, soussignés, intervenants et étudiants internationaux au Canada, prions le ministre de l’Immigration, des Réfugiés et de la Citoyenneté d’offrir des aménagements raisonnables en prolongeant la durée du permis de travail pour les diplômés internationaux dont l’accumulation d’expérience professionnelle a été affectée par la COVID-19.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marco MendicinoImmigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recognizes the tremendous economic, cultural, and social benefits that international students bring to the country.IRCC understands that due to the pandemic, some Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders and other temporary foreign workers in Canada have lost their employment or have seen their hours reduced and may be in jeopardy of not earning the one year of skilled work experience required to qualify for permanent residency programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class. Although PGWPs are a one-time opportunity, PGWP holders have other options available to them to remain in Canada to work.PGWP holders with permits that remain valid but are coming to an end have the option to apply for another one of Canada’s work permit programs under either the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or the International Mobility Program (IMP) program. Both programs offer a range of options for employers seeking to hire workers in specific sectors or with specialized skills. Furthermore, time spent working under these Programs may count towards Canadian work experience requirements for permanent residency. If a PGWP holder applies for such a work permit before the expiry of their PGWP, they may continue working while waiting for a decision on their work permit application.In addition, former PGWP holders whose work permits have expired or have converted to visitor status can benefit from the temporary public policies IRCC has implemented as part of the its COVID-19 response. These public policies include:Former PGWP holders who apply to the above public policies may also be able to work while awaiting a decision on their work permit application. These temporary changes were made to benefit employers in Canada who continue to face difficulties finding the workers they need, as well as foreign nationals, such as PGWP holders or former PGWP holders, who would like to contribute their labour and skills to Canada’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.IRCC will continue to monitor the impacts of the pandemic on international students and Post-Graduation Work Permit holders.
COVID-19Étudiants étrangersPandémiesPermis de travail
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée25 janvier 2021e-2630e-2630 (Affaires étrangères)HenryEvans-TenbrinkeScottDuvallHamilton MountainNPDON1 juin 2020 à 10 h 07 (HAE)30 août 2020 à 10 h 07 (HAE)29 octobre 202025 janvier 202131 août 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :Dans sa lettre du 23 mars aux leaders du G20, le Secrétaire général de l'ONU, Antonio Guterres, avait déclaré: « J'encourage la levée des sanctions imposées à divers pays, afin de leur garantir l'accès à la nourriture, aux fournitures médicales essentielles et aux médicaments COVID-19. C'est le moment de la solidarité et non de l'exclusion... Souvenons-nous que nous sommes aussi forts que le système de santé le plus faible de notre monde interconnecté »;Dans son message pascal, le Pape François a également appelé à la levée de toutes les sanctions économiques afin de mieux servir l'effort mondial contre la pandémie;Le gouvernement Trudeau entretient un régime de sanctions économiques unilatérales contre vingt pays du monde, neuf d’entre eux situés en Afrique;Ces sanctions empêchent les pays ciblés de réagir plus efficacement à la pandémie; elles nuisent donc à la sécurité mondiale ainsi qu’à nos propres efforts contre le coronavirus.Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de lever toutes ses sanctions économiques coercitives en cette période de pandémie.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Rob OliphantSanctions are an important component of Canada’s principled and pragmatic approach to foreign policy, which also includes dialogue, capacity building, advocacy, multilateral engagement, and other diplomatic actions. The decision to impose sanctions is not one that Canada takes lightly. They are a coercive measure of last resort designed to foster change and end impunity; a tool to be applied judiciously. When Canada chooses to impose sanctions, it does so to send a strong and clear message that it will not stand by in the face of gross human rights violations, significant corruption, or behaviour that flouts the rule of law and threatens global peace and security, and will hold those who commit such actions to account. In designing and implementing sanctions, the Government of Canada applies a targeted approach and rigorous analysis to minimize adverse consequences for the civilian population, including vulnerable groups, or for legitimate business, humanitarian, or other activities. Therefore, the vast majority of Canada’s autonomous sanctions measures apply to specific individuals or entities deemed culpable for human rights violations or acts of significant corruption, and would not impede a sanctioned country’s ability to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. These types of sanctions often include measures such as embargoes on arms and related material, as well as dealings bans (effective asset freezes) on specific individuals or entities. In many cases, listed individuals are also being deemed inadmissible to Canada.This approach is consistent with the current global reality where the priority is to ensure sanctions regimes do not present an unintended barrier that would hinder the humanitarian response to the pandemic. In addition, the Government of Canada also conducts regular reviews of its existing sanctions regimes to ensure that any measures taken remain relevant and serve the purpose for which they were originally implemented. Canada continues to implement legislated exceptions for certain activities such as the delivery of food, medicine and medical supplies, to limit the potentially adverse effects on vulnerable populations, such as women and girls.In an effort to respond to the needs of organizations operating in countries targeted by Canada’s sanctions regime during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada has taken steps to accelerate the review of any application for permits and certificates where applicants have identified a link to the global health crisis.With respect to UN sanctions, Canada has an international legal obligation to implement decisions to impose sanctions taken by the UN Security Council under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. Canada implements these decisions through regulations under the United Nations Act and could likewise implement Security Council decisions taken under Chapter VII adopted to address impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19PandémiesPolitique étrangèreSanctions économiques
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée7 décembre 2020e-2845e-2845 (Maladies humaines)AlexandreRodgersMarcusPowlowskiThunder Bay—Rainy RiverLibéralON18 septembre 2020 à 11 h 50 (HAE)18 octobre 2020 à 11 h 50 (HAE)22 octobre 20207 décembre 202020 octobre 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que : Il nous faut de nombreux vaccins pour satisfaire à la demande mondiale, et pourtant, nous ne savons pas vraiment lesquels des 160 vaccins ou plus qui sont en production sont efficaces;Des essais de provocation de la COVID-19 sur l’humain permettraient de rétrécir rapidement l’éventail des vaccins prometteurs et de répondre à des questions biologiques essentielles au sujet de la COVID-19, ce qui pourrait contribuer à sauver des dizaines de milliers de vies;Les essais de provocation sur l’humain ont été indispensables à notre compréhension d’autres maladies infectieuses, comme la malaria, le choléra et la grippe, et ils nous permettraient également d’acquérir un niveau de compréhension sans précédent de la COVID-19;Plus de 1 600 Canadiens se sont déjà portés volontaires pour prendre part à un essai de provocation de la COVID-19 sur l’humain; Le risque que cet essai pose pour les jeunes volontaires en santé est comparable à celui d’autres actes de service public accomplis, par exemple le don de rein par une personne vivante; Des milliers de citoyens continuent à mourir chaque jour de la COVID-19, et nous devons de toute urgence venir en aide aux personnes les plus vulnérables en accélérant la mise au point d’un vaccin.Nous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada d’annoncer publiquement la mise sur pied d’un programme d’essais de provocation de la COVID-19 sur l’humain.
Response by the Minister of HealthSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Darren FisherHealth Canada thanks the petitioners for taking the time to raise the important topic of human challenge trials in the context of development of vaccines to prevent infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.  The Government of Canada recognizes the critical impact COVID-19 is having on the lives of all Canadians, both from a health and economic perspective, and continues to take measures to respond to the pandemic with the highest priority. Providing access for Canadians to safe, high quality and effective vaccines is an important part of our overall response. Since the pandemic began, Health Canada has engaged with  stakeholders, including vaccine manufacturers, to provide regulatory assistance in the development of vaccines and treatments.  Globally, large clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccines are ongoing, enrolling tens of thousands of participants; these trials are expected to provide the data required to determine whether these vaccines are safe and effective. In addition, Health Canada has authorized a number of clinical trials for vaccines and treatments in Canada, and is already conducting in-depth reviews of submissions for market authorization of three leading COVID-19 vaccines.  The ongoing large clinical trials for the leading vaccines are progressing, with the objective of having results available as soon as possible to confirm the efficacy and safety of these vaccines.  Once the results become available, they will be submitted to Health Canada under its rolling review process.  The Department is committed to reviewing all COVID-19 vaccines in an expedited manner while maintaining high standards for the safety, efficacy, and quality evidence required for authorizations.  In parallel, the Public Health Agency of Canada is elaborating a vaccine deployment strategy to ensure vaccines can be distributed and made available to Canadians soon after regulatory authorization is issued.  The Government of Canada has also concluded agreements that will guarantee access for Canadians millions of doses of the most promising vaccine candidates. For a human challenge trial to be authorized in Canada, a clinical trial application would need to be filed with Health Canada for review.  Under the Food and Drug Regulations, a clinical trial must be conducted according to good clinical practices, with approval from a research ethics board, informed participant consent, and extensive safety monitoring to protect participants. More specifically, stringent safety and ethical requirements would need to be met, including but not limited to:
  • clear informed consent for all participants, where they are explained the potential risks and anticipated benefits;
  • maintenance of participants’ safety, including through the availability of medical assistance and appropriate effective treatments should they become ill;
  • consideration to using a weakened version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to further reduce the risks to participants;
  • measures to effectively minimize the potential transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to third parties, given how infectious it is;
  • a study design that will clearly meet its objectives and have an impact on public health, and produce reliable and relevant data; and
  • consideration as to whether there are alternative means to gathering the same information.
 Health Canada can object to a trial if it determines that it will endanger trial participants or others, that it is not in the best interests of participants, or that its objectives will not be achieved. Health Canada considers that a human challenge trial for COVID-19 would involve a higher risk since SARS-CoV-2 is a new virus that we are still learning about, and long-term effects of the virus are still unknown. With COVID-19, the illness can be severe and deadly, sometimes even in young and healthy individuals, and only limited supportive treatments exist for patients who become seriously ill. Currently, there are no established effective drugs to treat the infection before it becomes more advanced (i.e., when patients need oxygen treatment or ventilation). In addition, we do not yet know what the long-term consequences of infection are, even for those who appear to be fully recovered. Global scientific and clinical knowledge of this new virus, including its impact on people, is still evolving. Therefore, while Health Canada has not received any applications for human challenge trails for SARS-CoV-2 at this time, any future application for authorization by Health Canada would require the human challenge trial to be sufficiently stringent in safety parameters and meet ethical requirements, including access to effective treatments for participants who become ill. Health Canada regularly collaborates and exchanges information with international regulatory partners such as the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency among others, as well as with public health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO).  The WHO has recently published a guidance document relating to human challenge trials for COVID-19.  The principles and considerations included in this response align with those of the WHO.  We will continue to monitor the global situation, and we remain committed to learning from the expertise and experience of our global regulatory and scientific partners with regards to the considerations for the conduct of COVID-19 human challenge trials.
COVID-19ImmunisationPandémies
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée3 décembre 2020e-2629e-2629 (Parlement et politique)MavisWatsonCathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleConservateurSK29 mai 2020 à 8 h 55 (HAE)26 septembre 2020 à 8 h 55 (HAE)20 octobre 20203 décembre 202028 septembre 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="6" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">premier ministre</Addressee>Attendu que: Le grand nombre de Canadiens qui ont demandé l’aide du gouvernement fédéral tout au long de la pandémie de COVID-19 montre que la Chambre des communes doit être considérée comme un service essentiel pour le Canada et tous les Canadiens;Le fait de limiter les travaux de la Chambre des communes aux questions relatives à la pandémie de COVID-19 empêche les députés de demander des comptes au gouvernement sur toutes les autres questions d’intérêt national et international; Les réunions virtuelles de la Chambre des communes ou de ses comités permanents ne remplacent pas de façon adéquate les séances normales de la Chambre des communes et de ses comités permanents; Le point de presse quotidien du premier ministre n’offre pas un forum efficace pour le tenir responsable; Le premier ministre ne peut être tenu responsable et redevable aux Canadiens qu’en présence de députés de l’opposition à la Chambre des communes;Tout au long de la pandémie de COVID-19, des projets de loi prévoyant des dépenses publiques sans précédent ont été adoptés à la hâte sans tenir compte des points de vue des particuliers et des groupes de toutes les régions du pays, et n’ont pas été dûment examinés dans le cadre du processus législatif habituel; Le retour à la normale des séances en personne de la Chambre des communes et de ses comités permanents permettrait aux députés de bien peser des décisions qui sont prises sans que l’on en ait débattu suffisamment; La crise internationale que constitue la pandémie de COVID-19 exige la tenue de débats parlementaires ainsi qu’un niveau accru de responsabilisation et de contrôle.Nous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada, prions le premier ministre de reprendre immédiatement les séances normales, en personne, de la Chambre des communes et de ses comités permanents, de manière à ce que toutes les questions d’intérêt national et international puissent être discutées dans le respect des lignes directrices en matière de santé publique.
Response by the Leader of the Government in the House of CommonsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Kevin LamoureuxThe issues raised in the petition fall exclusively within the purview of the House of Commons and its recognized parliamentary privilege to regulate its own internal affairs.  Accordingly, it is the responsibility of Members of the House of Commons to determine the most appropriate way for the House to meet during the COVID-19 pandemic or any other exceptional circumstance.The Government remains committed to supporting this process.The Government remains open to continuing to work with House of Commons Administration in implementing decisions related to public health guidance, interpretation services or the security of videoconferencing platforms and information technology systems.
COVID-19Démocratie parlementairePandémies
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée2 décembre 2020e-2604e-2604 (Transport)Marie-EveDumontXavierBarsalou-DuvalPierre-Boucher—Les Patriotes—VerchèresBloc QuébécoisQC15 mai 2020 à 12 h 09 (HAE)13 août 2020 à 12 h 09 (HAE)19 octobre 20202 décembre 202013 août 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :Des milliers de consommateurs canadiens ont vu leur voyage annulé en raison de la fermeture des frontières et des mesures de confinement instaurées afin de limiter la propagation de la COVID-19;Des milliers de ces consommateurs se voient offrir par les transporteurs aériens ou les voyagistes un crédit voyage plutôt qu’un remboursement;De nombreux consommateurs vivent présentement une situation financière difficile en raison d’une diminution de revenus ou d’une perte d’emploi liée à la pandémie;Les conditions assorties à ces crédits voyage sont restrictives, stipulant notamment que ces derniers doivent être utilisés d’ici 24 mois, qu’ils ne sont pas transférables ou qu’ils n’offrent aucune garantie de prix;Bien des consommateurs ne pourront pas utiliser ces crédits dans les délais imposés par les transporteurs aériens en raison notamment de problèmes financiers, d’ennuis de santé ou du fait que les risques liés à la COVID-19 ne seront pas encore écartés;L’imposition de ces crédits voyage contrevient à la fois aux dispositions du Code civil du Québec sur la restitution des prestations en cas de force majeure et à celles de la Loi sur la protection du consommateur du Québec sur les instruments de paiement prépayés.Nous, soussignés, citoyens canadiens, prions le gouvernement du Canada d’ordonner aux compagnies aériennes et autres transporteurs de juridiction fédérale de permettre aux clients dont les voyages ont été annulés en raison de la pandémie actuelle d’obtenir un remboursement.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marc GarneauOn July 15, 2019, Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR) came into effect.  The APPR impose minimum standards and requirements if a flight is delayed or cancelled.  These vary depending on whether the reason is within the airline's control, outside of the airline’s control, or within the airline’s control but required for safety reasons. The APPR include limited provisions for flights delayed or cancelled for reasons outside of the carrier's control.Air carriers are facing significant revenue losses that are placing them in a highly precarious financial position as a result of the pandemic and resulting travel bans and low travel demand. Air carriers have indicated that their industry is at risk due to the COVID-19 air travel downturn. Although carriers have provided refunds for some types of tickets, they have predominantly issued vouchers for tickets cancelled due to COVID-19. This has led to concerns among passengers who seek cash refunds. The Government is very sympathetic toward passengers being issued vouchers who want a cash refund. Canadians may be facing financial difficulties and could thus benefit from a refund for their cancelled trip due to the pandemic.On November 9, 2020, the Minister of Transport announced a willingness to enter into negotiations with airlines on potential assistance, but made it clear the provision of refunds would be a condition of such support.
AnnulationCompagnies aériennesCOVID-19PandémiesRemboursement
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée23 novembre 2020e-2821e-2821 (Affaires sociales et égalité)JayWoodruffMatthewGreenHamilton-CentreNPDON1 septembre 2020 à 14 h 59 (HAE)1 octobre 2020 à 14 h 59 (HAE)9 octobre 202023 novembre 20201 octobre 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="2" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :Les Canadiens handicapés et les Canadiens vivant dans la pauvreté bénéficient d’un soutien financier d’urgence disproportionné depuis le lancement de la Prestation canadienne d’urgence du Canada (PCU), qui établit que le montant minimum requis pour vivre est de 2 000 $ par mois;Les Nations unies ont exprimé leur inquiétude quant à l’inégalité du soutien et des protections accordés aux personnes handicapées et aux personnes vivant dans la pauvreté;Il n’existe pas de mesure nationale de soutien équivalent à la PCU pour les Canadiens handicapés ou les Canadiens vivant dans la pauvreté;Le gouvernement du Canada n’offre pas un soutien égal depuis le lancement de la PCU de manière à protéger les droits de la personne des Canadiens handicapés et des Canadiens vivant dans la pauvreté;Le gouvernement du Canada n’a pas augmenté le soutien fédéral accordé aux Canadiens handicapés et aux Canadiens vivant dans la pauvreté pour qu’il soit égal au montant prescrit de 2 000 $ par mois pour survivre;Le gouvernement du Canada n’a pas augmenté les programmes de soutien fédéral en fonction de l’inflation.Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de :1. Élargir immédiatement l’admissibilité à la PCU pour inclure les personnes qui étaient auparavant jugées inadmissibles en raison de la pauvreté, d’un handicap ou d’autres circonstances qui les ont empêchées de gagner le revenu minimum requis pour avoir droit à la PCU, et de faire en sorte que les paiements soient rétroactifs au 15 mars 2020;2. Continuer à offrir un soutien égal aux Canadiens, comme il est indiqué ci-dessus, pendant la durée de la PCU, et de continuer à offrir ce soutien indéfiniment en mettant en place un revenu de base garanti, dont le montant mensuel est majoré chaque année pour tenir compte de toute augmentation du coût de la vie.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views on the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) and recognizes their request to amend the program criteria. The Government acknowledges concerns that some workers may have been unable to meet the minimum earnings required to qualify for CERB due to their individual circumstances, including some persons with disabilities.This is a challenging time for all Canadians, and the Government of Canada is taking significant actions to help people facing hardship because of the COVID-19 outbreak.It is important to acknowledge that income security is a shared responsibility across different levels of government. As such, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of working with provinces and territories to find solutions to common challenges.A human rights-based approach to disability issues is reflected in all Government of Canada policies, programs and initiatives. The Government fully supports the equality rights guarantees provided to Canadians with disabilities by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Canadian Human Rights Act, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The Government has acted to strengthen this commitment through the development and passage of the Accessible Canada Act.The Government also provided a one-time, tax-free, non-reportable payment of up to $600 to assist with additional expenses incurred in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. Lower-income persons, including Canadians with disabilities, also received a doubled GST/HST credit in April 2020.  The average additional benefit from this measure is close to $400 for single individuals and close to $600 for couples.As announced on September 23, 2020 in the Speech from the Throne, the Government will bring forward a Disability Inclusion Plan that will introduce a new Canadian Disability Benefit. The Plan will also include a robust employment strategy for persons with disabilities, and a better process to determine eligibility for Government disability programs and benefits.From the onset, the Government has taken steps to ensure that the interests and needs of persons with disabilities are being taken into consideration in the decisions and measures adopted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, in the spirit of “Nothing About Us Without Us ” from the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Government established a COVID-19 Disability Advisory Group (CDAG), comprised of experts in disability inclusion, to provide advice on the real-time lived experiences of persons with disabilities during this crisis, the issues, challenges and systemic gaps that exist as well as the best strategies and measures to be taken.Notable among the Advisory Group’s contributions and achievements was advising on broadening the reach of the one-time payment of $600 for persons with disabilities.  The Government expanded the payment to include recipients of Canada Pension Plan Disability, Quebec Pension Plan Disability Pension and Disability supports provided by Veterans Affairs CanadaThe Advisory Group and the disability community have raised accessible communications and the need for engagement with persons with disabilities as a key issue. That is why, as part of National AccessAbility Week, the Government announced an additional $1.1 million in funding to support national disability organizations through the Disability component of the Social Development Partnership Program. This funding will enhance their communications and engagement activities to better address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on persons with disabilities.We are making strides on accessibility of public announcements and Government of Canada communications. Sign language interpretation is being provided at Government of Canada press conferences and the COVID-19 Disability Advisory Group provided advice on public service policies related to accessible communications.With respect to the CERB, it is important to note that the program has now ended.  Of note, the CERB was not intended as a universal income support program, but was introduced on a temporary basis to replace income from employment or self-employment workers who had stopped working for reasons related to COVID-19.As of September 27, 2020, the Government implemented plans that transition people who have been receiving the CERB to a more flexible and accessible EI program. As a result of these temporary measures, EI will now be available to more Canadians, including those who would not have qualified for EI in the past.Additionally, the Government introduced three new temporary recovery benefits to support Canadians who are not eligible for EI and who are unable to work for reasons related to COVID-19. The Canada Recovery Benefit supports workers who are not employed or self-employed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, or are working and have had a reduction of at least 50 per cent in their employment/self-employment income for reasons related to COVID-19, and who are not eligible for EI. The Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit supports public health measures by providing income support to workers who are unable to work because they are sick or must self-isolate due to COVID-19, or have underlying conditions that would make them more susceptible to COVID-19. Finally, the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit responds to situations in which workers are unable to work because they must care for a child under the age of 12 or a family member who requires supervision because schools, day-cares or care facilities are closed due to COVID-19 or because the child or family member is sick and/or required to quarantine or is at high risk of serious health implications because of COVID-19.As part of the Government of Canada’s COVID response measures, the Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB) provided financial support from May to August, 2020 to post-secondary students and recent graduates who could not find summer employment due to COVID-19. Students with dependants or a disability received an additional $750 in support for a total of $2,000 for each four-week period. For the purposes of the CESB, students with disabilities was defined as someone having an impairment, such as a physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive, learning, communication or sensory impairment, or a functional limitation—whether permanent or episodic in nature, or evident or not—that, in interaction with a barrier, hinders a person’s full and equal participation in society.This investment builds upon an extensive suite of disability-related supports currently available for post-secondary students with permanent disabilities. These targeted supports include the Canada Student Grant for Students with Permanent Disabilities, which provides $2,000 per academic year (doubled to $4,000 in 2021-22 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic) and the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment for Students with Permanent Disabilities, which provides up to $20,000 per academic year to help offset exceptional, education-related costs associated with permanent disabilities. Moreover, students with permanent disabilities have additional special provisions, such as flexible eligibility criteria, increased lifetime loan assistance, and more generous repayment assistance measures. Most recently, as of October 1, 2020, eligible students with disabilities can also take a break from studies for medical or mental health reasons.The Government of Canada will continue to monitor research and analysis on potential basic income policies and programs that could positively impact Canada’s economy and society, as part of its efforts to ensure that all Canadians have a real and fair opportunity to succeed. As we move towards economic recovery, the Government is continuing to explore a variety of potential shorter and longer-term policy responses that could address the needs of Canadians, including persons with disabilities.The Government also recognizes the challenges that many Canadians face with finding and keeping good jobs. These challenges have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Strong employment outcomes for persons with disabilities requires specialized programming that ensures they have the training, skills, and other supports to navigate these challenges. Consequently, the Government of Canada invests in a number of skills training and employment support programs for persons with disabilities, including the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities (Opportunities Fund), a $40-million-per-year program that supports employment-focused interventions to assist persons with disabilities increase their access to the labour market. Through this program, the Government of Canada provides funding to organizations to assist persons with disabilities prepare for, obtain and maintain employment or self-employment. Projects funded under the program offer a wide range of services, including pre-employability training, self-employment interventions, job placements, wage subsidies and other wrap-around supports.On June 5, 2020, the Prime Minister of Canada announced several new federal supports for Canadians with disabilities to help address the challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic. They include a $15 million investment in a new National Workplace Accessibility Stream under the Opportunities Fund program in 2020-2021. This new stream helps support workplace accessibility and access to jobs for Canadians with disabilities, with a focus on the following activities:
  • Helping employers set up accessible and effective work-from-home measures;
  • Expanding online training opportunities;
  • Creating inclusive workplaces, whether virtual or physical;
  • Connecting people with disabilities, including those who work from home, with employers;
  • Training for in-demand jobs; and
  • Establishing wage subsidies to encourage the hiring of Canadians living with disabilities or expanding existing grants.
 
COVID-19PandémiesPrestation canadienne d’urgenceProcessus de demandeRevenu annuel garanti
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée23 novembre 2020e-2646e-2646 (Affaires sociales et égalité)MeganWalkerArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockConservateurAB5 juin 2020 à 9 h 54 (HAE)3 septembre 2020 à 9 h 54 (HAE)8 octobre 202023 novembre 20203 septembre 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada </Addressee>Attendu que : La traite et l’exploitation des femmes et des filles à fins sexuelles représentent de graves problèmes qui perdurent malgré la pandémie de COVID-19; Les victimes de traite et d’exploitation à des fins sexuelles sont souvent de jeunes femmes et la moitié des victimes de la traite des personnes au Canada sont autochtones; Les femmes et les filles vivent dans des conditions encore pires et doivent surmonter des obstacles supplémentaires pour fuir leurs trafiquants et s’échapper du milieu de la traite et de l’exploitation à des fins sexuelles qu’avant la pandémie; Le financement fédéral a permis à des organismes du Canada d’aider avec succès des milliers de femmes et de filles à fuir leurs trafiquants et à sortir en toute sécurité du milieu de la traite et de l’exploitation à des fins sexuelles; Ces organismes ont appris qu’ils ne recevraient plus de fonds fédéraux pour ces services vitaux et précieux; Les survivantes ont toujours besoin d’importants services et de soins à long terme qui tiennent compte des traumatismes fournis par ces organismes; Les organismes qui fournissent ces services précieux devraient obtenir l’appui sans réserve du gouvernement fédéral, car ils contribuent à mettre fin à la traite et l’exploitation à des fins sexuelles et à venir en aide aux victimes et aux survivantes; Le gouvernement fédéral a annoncé en septembre 2019 qu’il affectera 57 millions de dollars à la lutte contre la traite des personnes et au soutien des victimes et des survivantes. Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de rétablir rapidement le financement de ces organismes afin qu’ils continuent à offrir des services de sortie et de réadaptation aux victimes et aux survivantes de la traite et de l’exploitation.
Response by the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable David LamettiThe Government of Canada is committed to combating human trafficking and sexual explotation, including through the Department of Justice Victims Fund and the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, led by Public Safety Canada.The Measures to Address Prostitution Initiative funding included $20 million over five fiscal years (2015-2016 to 2019-2020), divided between Justice Canada and Public Safety. This time-limited funding, which ended on March 31, 2020, went to non-governmental organizations and police services to support victims of sexual exploitation involved in the sex trade. However, Justice Canada continues to make available $1M per year to support projects related to human trafficking under the Victims Fund.Justice Canada is currently funding seven organizations across Canada to support their work to deliver services responsive to the needs of trafficked persons with a view to promoting their physical, psychological and social recovery.In June 2020, funding to support the National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking was approved by the Treasury Board, with investments going to Public Safety Canada and Women and Gender Equality to support organizations providing services and assistance to victims of human trafficking. These departments each launched a call for proposals, which are now closed. The review process is underway.
Response by the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic DevelopmentSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Ms. Gudie HutchingsGender-based violence (GBV) is one of the most pervasive, deadly and deeply-rooted human rights violations of our time. The Government of Canada is committed to commitment to preventing and addressing all forms of GBV, including human trafficking for the purposes of sexual exploitation. This is why, in September 2019, the National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking (National Strategy) was launched, led by the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness.Through the National Strategy, the Department for Women and Gender Equality received funding to support organizations in developing and implementing promising prevention and intervention practices that will advance knowledge and enhance supports for at-risk populations and survivors of human trafficking, beginning in 2020-21.  A Call for Proposals was launched on July 29, 2020 and closed on September 11, 2020. The Department is currently reviewing the submissions. In addition, in 2017, the Government of Canada launched It’s Time: Canada’s Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence (GBV Strategy). Since the launch of the GBV Strategy, over $200 million has been invested in initiatives across the GBV Strategy’s three pillars: 1) Preventing Gender-Based Violence, 2) Supporting Survivors and their Families, and 3) Promoting Responsive Legal and Justice Systems. Progress and achievements to date can be found in the Annual Reports on the Gender-Based Violence Knowledge Centre’s online platform: https://cfc-swc.gc.ca/violence/knowledge-connaissance/index-en.html.Federal leadership on GBV has been welcomed by partners and stakeholders and has proven to be a strong first step to align federal partners, build collaborative structures, continue engaging with stakeholders, and demonstrate progress.  Nevertheless, we have also heard the repeated calls for a National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence (GBV NAP) that brings federal, provincial and territorial efforts under one cohesive framework.As the 150th Speech from the Throne underscored, the Government of Canada will continue to advance the GBV NAP, under the leadership of the Minister for Women and Gender Equality, and with support from the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. Through ongoing engagements,  a clear set of priorities are being developed for the GBV NAP, which will seek to address the root causes and systemic issues that perpetrate violence, as well as the factors that serve as barriers to accessing supports, services, and protections.The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the need for a National Action Plan and amplified its urgency.  In recognition of the gendered impacts of the pandemic, coupled with the exacerbation of existing gaps in some systems and sectors and the increasing rates of GBV, otherwise known as the shadow pandemic, Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan implemented a number of measures to support people and businesses, including the commitment of $100 million to women’s shelters, sexual assault centres, and other organizations that provide important services to those experiencing GBV.  This funding will help keep their doors open, mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in their facilities, adapt their service delivery to virtual and remote models, and ensure services remained available to survivors and their families.This challenging time presents an opportunity to further advance progress towards achieving gender equality and eliminating GBV in Canada. Through an evidence-based, survivor-centric, and trauma-informed approach, and in collaboration with the provinces and territories, Indigenous partners, survivors and experts, the GBV NAP will bring us closer to our vision of a Canada free from GBV.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency PreparednessSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Joël Lightbound, M.PThe Government of Canada takes the issue of human trafficking seriously and is committed to the protection of children, women, girls, and other vulnerable members of society from all forms of exploitation and abuse, including sexual and labour trafficking.The Measures to Address Prostitution Initiative funding (MAPI) was created by Justice Canada, in collaboration with Public Safety Canada, in order to support grassroots organizations to deliver services to individuals seeking to exit prostitution. The initiative, supported by an investment of $20 million over five years beginning in 2015-2016, was announced in conjunction with the enactment of former Bill C-36 Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act in 2014. Through the MAPI, Public Safety Canada received $9.4 million over five years, to be managed under the National Crime Prevention Strategy (NCPS).Building on the MAPI’s $9.4 million over 5 years, the NCPS committed an additional $21 million over 5 years, for a total investment of $30 million over 5 years, to support 14 projects to collect information and share knowledge on what works best to support individuals to exit prostitution. The start dates for the MAPI-funded projects have varied, with some starting as late as 2017-2018. Public Safety Canada has reallocated internal resources in order to support each project for a full five years, which means some will continue to receive funding through the NCPS until 2022-2023, well beyond the sunsetting of the MAPI funding.Public Safety Canada is also supporting additional measures to combat human trafficking. Through Budget 2018, up to $14.51 million over five years and $2.89 million per year ongoing was allocated for the establishment and implementation of the new Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline (https://www.canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca/) for victims and survivors in need of services and support. The hotline was launched in May 2019 and is a national, multilingual, 24/7 service operated by the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking, a national charitable organization.In addition, the Government of Canada launched the whole-of-government, five-year National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking (National Strategy) in September 2019. This diverges from the 2012 Action Plan launched by the previous Conservative government which was derided by some advocates who declared that the “crime-fighting focus of the plan has unfortunately detracted from ... victim services.” When it was announced it came with a budget of $25 million of which only $500,000 was to be used for supporting survivors.Under our plan, we are investing $57.22 million over five years and $2.89 million ongoing in addition to the Hotline. The National Strategy includes measures aligned with the internationally recognized pillars of prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnership. It also introduces a new focus area, “empowerment”, to enhance supports and services to victims and survivors of human trafficking, helping them to regain control and independence.As part of the empowerment pillar, in June 2020, Public Safety Canada issued a targeted call for proposals for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that have already demonstrated leadership in providing long-term, wrap-around services and supports to victims and survivors of human trafficking. In addition, in late July 2020, Public Safety Canada and Women and Gender Equality Canada launched open calls for proposals for a total value of $19 million over four years for NGOs across Canada that demonstrate promising practices or projects related to human trafficking. These calls for proposals closed September 11, 2020 and the responses are being evaluated against the assessment criteria, the program’s terms and conditions, and value for money.
COVID-19PandémiesTraite de personnesViolence et exploitation sexuelle
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée19 novembre 2020e-2565e-2565 (Affaires étrangères)KarenRodmanPaulManlyNanaimo—LadysmithParti vertBC7 mai 2020 à 15 h 26 (HAE)4 septembre 2020 à 15 h 26 (HAE)6 octobre 202019 novembre 20208 septembre 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :Le peuple palestinien de Gaza fait l’objet d’un blocus depuis 13 ans;Ce blocus a causé une régression accélérée du développement et a mené les Nations Unies à déclarer que Gaza serait invivable d’ici 2020;La COVID-19 pourrait causer une catastrophe humanitaire terrible dans cette région la plus densément peuplée au monde;L’article 56 de la quatrième Convention de Genève précise que la Puissance occupante a le devoir d’assurer et de maintenir les mesures nécessaires pour combattre la propagation des maladies contagieuses et des épidémies;Conformément à l’article 1 de la quatrième Convention de Genève, toutes les Hautes Parties contractantes, dont le Canada fait partie, doivent prendre les mesures nécessaires pour s’assurer qu’aucune violation à la quatrième Convention de Genève n’a lieu, quelles que soient les circonstances.Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada de demander la levée immédiate du blocus imposé à Gaza pour permettre l’envoi d’aide médicale et humanitaire pendant la pandémie de COVID-19, d’insister pour qu’Israël mette fin de façon permanente à son blocus contre Gaza et de voter lors de l’Assemblée générale des Nations Unies à l’instar de la majorité de la communauté internationale qui prend position conformément au droit international et aux droits fondamentaux des Palestiniens.
Response by the Minister of Foreign AffairsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable François-Philippe ChampagneThe humanitarian and security situation in Gaza, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 crisis, remains a central preoccupation for the Government of Canada. As part of the funding to respond to COVID-19 announced on April 5, 2020, Canada committed $4 million for United Nations (UN) humanitarian appeals to support the healthcare needs of at-risk Palestinians. On April 23, 2020, Canada also announced its allocation of $18 million in humanitarian assistance to address the urgent priorities identified in the UN’s 2020 Humanitarian Response Plan for the West Bank and Gaza. This two-year funding commitment will help particularly vulnerable Palestinians, such as women and girls, survivors of gender-based violence, and marginalized communities, to access food, health care, water and sanitation services, through experienced UN agencies and civil society organizations. Canadian officials are closely monitoring the situation in the region, and remain closely engaged with the United Nations, other governments and international organizations. Canada continues to call on Israeli and Palestinian authorities to take every step to protect the most vulnerable, including women and children, as they are disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.Canada remains strongly committed to the goal of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, and to a two-state solution achieved through direct negotiations between the parties. This includes Israel’s right to live in peace with its neighbours within secure boundaries and free from terrorism, and the creation of a sovereign, democratic, and territorially contiguous Palestinian state.
Aide au développement internationalCOVID-19Droits de la personneGazaIsraëlPalestinePandémiesSanctions économiques
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée16 novembre 2020e-2566e-2566 (Travail et emploi)KristaEllsworthElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsParti vertBC7 juillet 2020 à 15 h 05 (HAE)6 août 2020 à 15 h 05 (HAE)29 septembre 202016 novembre 20207 août 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">ministre des Familles, des Enfants et du Développement social</Addressee>Attendu que : En raison du confinement, les parents en congé parental ou de maternité ont dû limiter l’important engagement social et les liens de groupe qui sont essentiels au développement sain de l’enfant; Ceux qui sont actuellement en congé n’ont pas non plus bénéficié du soutien de la famille, des amis et des grands-parents qui est nécessaire au développement de l’enfant ainsi qu’à la santé mentale des parents.Nous, soussignés, résidents du Canada, prions le ministre des Familles, des Enfants et du Développement social de prolonger le congé parental ou de maternité de 3 mois en réponse à la pandémie de COVID-19 et au confinement.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views on the need to support families during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Government acknowledges the challenges of caring for young children, and recognizes that the public health measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 have affected the supports available to new parents.The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for all Canadians, including new parents. However, Employment Insurance (EI) maternity and parental benefits have remained in place throughout the pandemic to provide income support to new parents who have needed to take time off work. Maternity benefits provide temporary income support to new and expecting mothers who are away from work during pregnancy and for childbirth recovery, while parental benefits provide temporary income support to new parents who take time away from work to care for their newborn or newly adopted child.Parents have a choice between standard and extended parental benefits. When shared between parents, standard parental benefits provide up to 40 weeks of benefits paid at 55% of average weekly earnings over 12 months. No parent can receive more than 35 weeks of benefits. Parents selecting the extended parental benefits can receive up to 69 weeks of benefits paid at 33% of average weekly earnings over 18 months. No parent can receive more than 61 weeks of benefits.Parents who could not return to work after their maternity or parental leave because their employer closed or they had to stay home with their child may have been eligible for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), which provided $500 per week for up to 28 weeks to eligible workers.The Government has transitioned from the CERB to a simplified EI program, effective September 27, 2020, to provide income support to eligible workers who remain unable to work. Recognizing that many workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic will have lost their jobs or worked reduced hours, a set of temporary measures have been introduced to facilitate access to EI benefits. These include allowing Canadians to qualify for EI with 120 hours of work (including EI parental and maternity benefits), introducing a minimum benefit rate of $500 per week (or $300 for extended parental benefits), and providing a minimum entitlement of 26 weeks of regular benefits.The Government of Canada has also introduced a suite of three new temporary recovery benefits to support workers who are unable to work due to COVID-19: the Canada Recovery Benefit, the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit, and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit.  In particular, the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit will be available for one year, and provides $500 per week, for up to 26 weeks per household to workers who are unable to work because they must care for a child under the age of 12 or family member because schools, day-cares or care facilities are closed due to COVID-19 or because the child or family member is sick with or must isolate due to COVID-19, or are at risk of having serious health complications if they contracted COVID-19.Access to affordable childcare is not a new challenge for families in Canada, but the pandemic has certainly shown just how critical accessible, affordable, inclusive and high quality childcare is for the economy, families and children.The Government of Canada will also make a significant, long-term, sustained investment to create a Canada-wide early learning and childcare and will continue to work with all provinces and territories to ensure that high-quality care is accessible to all. Through this continued support, Canadian parents will have access to new opportunities to build a better future for themselves and their children.Once again, the Government of Canada wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in the Government’s ongoing efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Congés de maternitéCongés parentauxCOVID-19PandémiesProlongation de la période de prestations d'assurance-emploi
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée16 novembre 2020e-2680e-2680 (Administration et services gouvernementaux)ChristopherWordenLindsayMathyssenLondon—FanshaweNPDON17 juin 2020 à 14 h 15 (HAE)16 août 2020 à 14 h 15 (HAE)28 septembre 202016 novembre 202017 août 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :Les étudiants de cycle supérieur font fait à des obstacles bien particulier en raison de la crise de la COVID-19, tels que la perte de poste d’assistants à la recherche, des retards dans l’achèvement des programmes et la diminution des débouchés sur le marché du travail;Les étudiants de cycle supérieur sont censés payer des frais de scolarité toute l’année (sans interruption pendant l’été);La plupart des étudiants de cycle supérieur sont plus âgés que les étudiants de premier cycle et vivent hors campus, où ils font face au même coût de la vie que les autres travailleurs au Canada;La plupart des étudiants de cycle supérieur ne sont pas admissibles à la Prestation canadienne d’urgence;La Prestation d’urgence canadienne pour les étudiants (PCUE) s’adresse uniquement aux étudiants qui sont citoyens canadiens ou résidents permanents et qui gagnent moins de 1 000 $ par mois, bien que ce montant soit insuffisant pour faire face au coût de la vie, sans compter le fardeau supplémentaire des frais de scolarité;La PCUE ne fournit pas de soutien à la plupart des étudiants de cycle supérieur, qui sont nombreux à ne pas y avoir droit, soit parce qu’ils ont un revenu supérieur à 1 000 $ par mois, soit parce qu’ils sont des étudiants étrangers sans statut de résident permanent;Prendre un congé pour éviter de payer les frais de scolarité d’été perturberait de façon insoutenable le revenu, les études et les travaux de recherche de nombreux étudiants de cycle supérieur;Le seul programme s’adressant aux étudiants étrangers les obligerait à occuper des emplois de première ligne à haut risque alors qu’ils tentent de terminer leurs études.Nous, soussignés, étudiants de cycle supérieur du Canada , prions le gouvernement du Canada d’élargir les critères d’admissibilité de la PCUE afin de l’étendre aux étudiants étrangers et aux étudiants qui gagnent plus de 1 000 $ par mois et de collaborer avec les gouvernements provinciaux afin de mettre en place des allègements pour les loyers résidentiels.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKThe Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB) provided emergency financial relief to students and recent graduates who were unable to work, or unable to find work, due to reasons related to COVID-19. It was also available to those who were working but not making more than $1,000 (before taxes) over the four-week period for which they applied. The CESB was available from May 10 to August 29, 2020 and provided more than $2.93B of financial relief to over 708,000 eligible recipients.Parliament approved the Canada Emergency Student Benefit Act to introduce CESB and its eligibility parameters, which mirrored those of the Canada Student Loans Program (CSLP). While international students did not qualify for the CESB, the Government of Canada recognized the needs of international students living in Canada and has taken action to support them. Notably, international students were eligible to receive the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), provided they met the eligibility criteria including they were residing in Canada at the time and earned a minimum of $5000 in the last 12 months or 2019.  In February, approximately 40 percent of students in Canada were working, which included international students. This indicates that a significant number of students were in fact eligible to receive the CERB. Adjustments were also made to allow international students to work more while they are studying.The Government of Canada also introduced other measures to benefit students. All students, including graduate students, who are repaying their Canada Student Loans (CSLs) or Canada Apprentice Loans benefitted from a six-month interest-free repayment moratorium that came into effect on March 30, 2020 and ended September 30, 2020. This interest-free repayment moratorium automatically paused the student borrower’s repayment requirements and stopped interest from accruing on their loans. With the moratorium now lifted, students in repayment who are continuing to experience financial hardship may be eligible to enroll in the CSLP Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP).Furthermore, The Government of Canada announced significant increases to grant and loan support for the 2020-21 school year, so that students facing challenges due to COVID-19 can access and afford post-secondary education. These changes include:
  • Canada Student Grants were doubled for all eligible full-time students to up to $6,000 and up to $3,600 for part-time students. While these grants are only provided to undergraduate students, graduate students can benefit from the increase to the Canada Student Grants for Students with Permanent Disabilities and Students with Dependents, which were also doubled.
  • No contribution is expected from students and their spouses in determining the amount of financial aid a student can get in recognition that many students and families struggled to save for school this year.
  • The weekly cap on CSLs was increased from $210 to $350 per week of study.
In addition to the measures mentioned above, the Government of Canada increased existing distinctions-based support for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation students pursuing post-secondary education, and extended expiring federal graduate research scholarships and postdoctoral fellowships.
COVID-19ÉtudiantsPandémiesPrestation canadienne d’urgence pour étudiants
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée16 novembre 2020e-2631e-2631 (Travail et emploi)VictoriaFrizzell R.N. BsNJennyKwanVancouver-EstNPDBC7 juillet 2020 à 14 h 59 (HAE)6 août 2020 à 14 h 59 (HAE)24 septembre 202016 novembre 20207 août 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="3" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">gouvernement du Canada</Addressee>Attendu que :Les restrictions imposées aux déplacements et aux rassemblements par suite de la pandémie de COVID-19 ont eu des conséquences négatives sur la santé physique et mentale des mères et des bébés;Les mères et les bébés ne reçoivent pas de soins de santé adéquats dans de nombreuses régions du Canada parce que les ressources du système de santé qui leur étaient consacrées ont été réaffectées à la lutte contre la pandémie de COVID-19;Les mères en congé de maternité pendant la pandémie de COVID-19 ont besoin de passer plus de temps avec leurs bébés pour compenser l’effet nuisible que la pandémie de COVID-19 a eu sur eux sur les plans physique et mental;Les mères et leurs bébés se sentent oubliés et mal appuyés par le gouvernement au moment même où leurs soutiens personnels habituels ont été limités ou éliminés complètement;De nombreuses mères n’ont pas de service de garde sûr auquel confier leurs bébés âgés de 12 mois en raison des restrictions imposées aux garderies pendant la pandémie; Le gouvernement a fermé les endroits où les mères et leurs bébés pouvaient interagir en toute sécurité.Nous, soussignées, mères canadiennes en congé de maternité pendant la pandémie de COVID-19, prions le gouvernement du Canada de prolonger d’au moins trois mois le congé de maternité payé pour les mères au Canada pendant la pandémie de COVID-19, et de donner aux mères qui sont actuellement en congé de maternité de 12 mois l’option d’avoir un congé de maternité de 18 mois.De cette façon, les mères auront plus de temps pour obtenir les rendez-vous médicaux nécessaires pour elles et leurs bébés pendant le congé de maternité, et plus de temps pour trouver une bonne garderie pour leurs bébés âgés de 12 mois, en plus d’assurer un meilleur développement pour leurs bébés et une meilleure santé physique et mentale pour les mères et les bébés avant qu’ils soient séparés par le retour au travail de celles-ci.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Irek KusmierczykThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views on the need to support families, including mothers, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Government acknowledges the challenges of caring for young children, and recognizes that the public health measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 have affected the supports available to new parents.The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for all Canadians, including new parents. However, Employment Insurance (EI) maternity and parental benefits have remained in place throughout the pandemic to provide income support to new parents who have needed to take time off work. Maternity benefits provide temporary income support to new and expecting mothers who are away from work during for pregnancy and for childbirth recovery while parental benefits provide temporary income support to new parents who are away from work to care for their newborn or newly adopted child.Parents have a choice between standard and extended parental benefits. When shared between parents, standard parental benefits provide up to 40 weeks of benefits paid at 55% of average weekly earnings over 12 months. No parent can receive more than 35 weeks of benefits. Parents selecting the extended parental benefits can receive up to 69 weeks of benefits paid at 33% of average weekly earnings over 18 months. No parent can receive more than 61 weeks of benefits.Parents who could not return to work after their maternity or parental leave because their employer closed or they had to stay home with their child may have been eligible for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), which provided $500 per week for up to 28 weeks to eligible workers.The Government has transitioned from the CERB to a simplified EI program, effective September 27, 2020, to provide income support to eligible workers who remain unable to work. Recognizing that many workers impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic will have lost their jobs or worked reduced hours, a set of temporary measures have been introduced to facilitate access to EI benefits. These include allowing Canadians to qualify for EI with 120 hours of work (including EI parental and maternity benefits), introducing a minimum benefit rate of $500 per week (or $300 for extended parental benefits), and providing a minimum entitlement of 26 weeks of regular benefits.The Government has also introduced a suite of three new temporary recovery benefits to support workers who are unable to work due to COVID-19: the Canada Recovery Benefit, the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit, and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit.In particular, the  Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit will be available for one year and provide $500 per week, for up to 26 weeks per household to workers who are unable to work because they must care for a child under the age of 12 or family member because schools, day-cares or care facilities are closed due to COVID-19, or because the child or family member is sick with or must isolate due to COVID-19, or are at risk of having serious health complications if they contracted COVID-19.Access to affordable child care is not a new challenge for families in Canada, but the pandemic has certainly shown just how critical accessible, affordable, inclusive and high quality child care is for the economy, families and children.Recognizing this urgency, the Government of Canada has ensured that emergency pandemic support of $625 million was provided to Provinces and Territories for the child care sector through the Safe Restart Agreements and also invested $400 million in the extension of the Early Learning and Child Care bilateral agreements.  This represents a total of almost $1.2 billion of federal funding to support early learning and child care in 2020-21.The Government of Canada will also make a significant, long-term, sustained investment to create a Canada-wide early learning and childcare system and will continue to work with all provinces and territories to ensure that high-quality care is accessible to all. Through this continued support, Canadian parents will have access to new opportunities to build a better future for themselves and their children.Once again, the Government of Canada wishes to thank the petitioners. Their views will be taken into consideration in the Government’s ongoing efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Congés de maternitéCOVID-19PandémiesProlongation de la période de prestations d'assurance-emploi
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée24 septembre 2020e-2579e-2579 (Affaires sociales et égalité)MarilynCoxJennyKwanVancouver-EstNPDBC7 mai 2020 à 10 h 48 (HAE)6 juin 2020 à 10 h 48 (HAE)15 juin 202024 septembre 20208 juin 2020Pétition à la <Addressee type="1" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">Chambre des communes</Addressee>Attendu que :La pandémie de COVID-19 a des effets économiques dévastateurs pour tous les Canadiens, et plus particulièrement pour ceux qui gagnent un revenu faible ou modeste, pour les petites entreprises, les pigistes, les travailleurs indépendants, les artistes, les travailleurs de l’industrie du cinéma, les travailleurs non salariés et les personnes qui ont revenu fixe, dont les aînés et les personnes handicapées;Les paiements de loyer, d’hypothèque et de services publics sont à faire à la fin du mois, ce qui expose une multitude de Canadiens au risque de perdre leur logement;Il est absolument primordial de pouvoir s’isoler, se mettre en quarantaine et pratiquer l’éloignement physique chez soi afin d’aider à freiner la propagation de la COVID-19;Les mesures économiques annoncées par le gouvernement fédéral ne répondront pas assez rapidement aux besoins immédiats des Canadiens, et les Canadiens qui n’y ont pas droit passeront entre les mailles du filet;Certaines provinces ont décidé d’interdire temporairement les expulsions de locataires, et d’autres, non.Nous, soussignés, résidents du Canada, prions le gouvernement du Canada d’appliquer immédiatement, dans l’ensemble du pays, un gel des expulsions et des paiements de loyer, d’hypothèque et de services publics; d’appliquer un report des prêts hypothécaires, sans que les institutions financières puissent imposer de pénalités et de frais d’intérêt aux propriétaires; et de fournir une aide directe immédiate sous la forme d’un paiement universel direct de 2 000 $ par mois à chaque personne, et d’un montant supplémentaire de 250 $ par enfant, jusqu’à la fin de la pandémie de COVID-19.
Response by the Minister of SeniorsSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKThis is a challenging time for all Canadians, and the Government of Canada is taking immediate, significant and decisive actions to help Canadians facing hardship as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.The Government has invested billions in targeted income support to individuals, businesses, key sectors, and community organizations on the frontlines of serving Canadians. In addition to the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), which is providing $500 per week to eligible individuals impacted by the forced shutdown of the economy, and measures to help companies pay rent and keep their employees working, the Government also announced measures that provided financial support to vulnerable Canadians that helped limit income inequality and promote opportunity during this challenging time.
  • For lower income Canadians, the one-time Goods and Services Tax Credit payment delivered to eligible recipients in April 2020 effectively doubled the maximum annual amounts for the 2019-20 benefit year, benefiting over 12 million individuals and families. The average additional benefit is close to $400 for single individuals and close to $600 for couples. The Government delivered $5.5B through this measure.
  • For families with children, the Government’s one-time $300 increase to Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments in May 2020 provided additional support to 3.7 million families to help pay for groceries, children’s at-home learning activities, and other necessities during this time. The overall increase for families receiving the child benefit was around $550 on average. The Government delivered almost $2B through this measure.
  • For seniors, the one-time tax-free payment of $300 to Old Age Security (OAS) recipients, with an additional payment of $200 to Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) recipients, and $500 to Allowance recipients provided increased support to help offset costs that seniors face right now, such as grocery delivery and medications. As of April 2020, 6.5 million seniors receive OAS payments and were eligible for the one-time payment. Of those, 2.1 million seniors are also receiving the GIS. The Government  delivered $2.5B through these measures.
These are just a few examples of the supports the Government has provided to Canadians during this difficult time. As of July 3, 2020, the Government has invested almost $232 billion in direct federal measures as part of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan.With regard to basic income, the Government of Canada continually undertakes research and analysis on a range of policies and programs that could positively impact Canada’s economy and society as part of its efforts to ensure that all Canadians have a real and fair opportunity to succeed.The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of working with provinces and territories to find solutions to common challenges. However, it is important to acknowledge that it is up to the provincial and territorial governments to make decisions around the design of social assistance systems and policies in their own jurisdictions.The Government of Canada already has programs with many of the features of a basic income, such as the CCB for families with children, and the OAS and GIS program for seniors. In addition, existing programs such as the Canada Workers Benefit and Employment Insurance provide income supports for low-income individuals with labour market attachment or those with insurable employment. The Government is however aware of views regarding the existing Employment Insurance benefits and leave system and that the changing nature of work presents challenges in providing support to all Canadians in their unique circumstances.In response to COVID-19, the Government of Canada is continuing to explore a variety of potential shorter and longer-term policy responses that could address the ongoing needs of Canadians.  
Response by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Chrystia FreelandMany Canadians are facing challenges as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. Having a safe and affordable place to live is critical and so we have put measures in place to help ensure Canadians can remain in their homes.The scope and scale of the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 economic response plan includes income support measures to help Canadians pay their rent and put food on the table. These measures have helped to protect millions of jobs, provide emergency support to families, and keep businesses afloat throughout the pandemic.  Since the launch of the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), over 3 million Canadian employees have had their jobs supported with more than $27 billion paid out in wage subsidies as of August 16, 2020. The government introduced the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), a taxable benefit of $2,000 every four weeks for up to 28 weeks for eligible workers who are directly affected by COVID-19. This benefit has helped more than 8.6 million people pay their bills during this challenging time. The Government’s Economic and Fiscal Snapshot 2020, issued on July 8, 2020, provides more information on how these programs can help individuals.As the Government of Canada is working to support Canadians through the pandemic, we expect Canadian banks to work to support people who are facing financial difficulty to explore available options to help them get through this challenging time.For individuals, lenders have provided payment deferral supports including: up to a six-month payment deferral for mortgages; payment deferrals for loans, including lines of credit and auto loans; and relief on credit cards, including reduced interest rates, by as much as 50 per cent.According to the Canadian Bankers Association, as of July 31, 2020, more than 775,000 Canadians have been provided mortgage deferrals or skip-a-payment relief, and over 470,000 approvals or requests to defer credit card minimum payments have been processed.In addition, banks are providing direct deposit enrolment for emergency response benefits for Canadians, including the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), the Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB), and the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), to enable timely availability of these benefits to Canadians.Rental housing falls under landlord-tenant legislation which is under provincial jurisdiction. You may wish to get in touch with the province for more specific information. Several provinces and territories, representing roughly 99% of Canada’s population, have issued full or partial eviction bans.  The Government of Canada continues to support the extension of eviction moratoriums.The Government of Canada will continue to monitor and respond to the health, social, and economic impacts of COVID-19. We stand ready to take additional actions as needed to support all Canadians while stabilizing the economy.The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) is monitoring the commitments made by the banks to support consumers facing hardship.
COVID-19Expulsion d'un logement louéHypothèquesLocationPandémiesPrestations socialesServices publics
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée24 septembre 2020e-2600e-2600 (Citoyenneté et immigration)ArcelleAppolonAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatrieNPDQC12 mai 2020 à 17 h 23 (HAE)11 juin 2020 à 17 h 23 (HAE)17 juin 202024 septembre 202015 juin 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="6" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">premier ministre</Addressee>Attendu que :La pandémie de la COVID-19 représente une situation exceptionnelle pour tous les habitants du Canada et nécessite un effort de guerre pour faire face à cet ennemi impitoyable;Nous nous battons pour nous protéger et surtout protéger les plus vulnérables, à savoir les personnes âgées, celles vivant avec une maladie chronique, ainsi que les quartiers fragilisés;Les demanderesses et demandeurs d'asile, malgré l'insécurité chronique reliée à la précarité de leur statut au Canada, jouent un rôle central dans les services essentiels et plus particulièrement dans les Centres d’hébergement et de soins de longue durée (CHSLD) et les résidences pour personnes âgées fortement touchés par la COVID-19;Ces personnes apportent dans des conditions exceptionnelles leurs compétences, leur dévouement et leur dignité afin de nous aider à combattre cette pandémie, tout en risquant leur propre santé et celle de leur famille;L'expulsion du pays de ces anges gardiens, aussitôt la bataille gagnée, irait à l'encontre de nos valeurs québécoises et canadiennes.Nous, soussignés, citoyens canadiens et membres de la Concertation haïtienne pour les migrant.es, prions le premier ministre de faire preuve de leadership en mettant en place un programme spécial assurant la régularisation du statut pour des raisons humanitaires, pour les demandeurs et demanderesses d’asile travaillant à la lutte contre la COVID-19, contribuant ainsi à la santé et la sécurité de toute la population canadienne.
Response by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marco MendicinoThe Government of Canada is aware of calls to provide a pathway to Permanent Residency for asylum claimants across the country who work in the health care sector in recognition of their exceptional service during the COVID-19 pandemic.Front-line healthcare workers play a critical role in keeping Canadians healthy. We are all deeply grateful for their dedication, commitment and bravery.We recognize that this is a unique situation and are currently examining how we can recognize those who are working hard on the front-lines to keep Canadians safe and healthy.Asylum claimants in Canada continue to have access to the Interim Federal Health Program and temporary work permits. In addition they have access to interim housing, social assistance, education and legal aid through the provincial and territorial governments.
COVID-19Droit d'asileImmigration et immigrantsPandémiesSoignants et professionnels de la santé
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée24 septembre 2020e-2659e-2659 (Affaires sociales et égalité)RowanEl-BialyHeatherMcPhersonEdmonton StrathconaNPDAB10 juin 2020 à 9 h 01 (HAE)10 juillet 2020 à 9 h 01 (HAE)21 juillet 202024 septembre 202010 juillet 2020Pétition à <Addressee type="1" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">la Chambre des communes</Addressee>Attendu que : le critère d’admissibilité à la Prestation canadienne d’urgence (PCU) voulant que le travailleur ne quitte pas volontairement son emploi signifie que le travailleur est obligé de retourner au travail si son lieu de travail est rouvert;Bon nombre de provinces veulent allonger la liste des entreprises autorisées à rouvrir, y compris les entreprises où les travailleurs ne peuvent respecter la distanciation physique;Bon nombre de travailleurs de première ligne dans ces entreprises ne sont pas à l’aise de retourner au travail pour l’instant parce qu’ils sont personnellement susceptibles d’avoir des complications liées à la COVID-19 ou qu’ils s’occupent de quelqu’un qui est à risque;Ceux et celles qui craignent d’être exposés à la COVID-19 en retournant au travail n’auront d’autres choix que d’y retourner, risquant ainsi leur santé et celle de leurs proches; Cette réalité est contraire à l’éthique puisqu’elle met en danger la vie des travailleurs les plus vulnérables et constitue une incitation préjudiciable qui peut nuire aux entreprises et aux efforts de santé publique.Nous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada, prions la Chambre des communes de modifier la PCU pour inclure les travailleurs qui ont quitté leur emploi volontairement en raison d’inquiétudes liées à la COVID-19.
Response by the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability InclusionSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): IREK KUSMIERCZYKThe Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for sharing their views on the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) and recognizes their request to amend the program criteria. The Government acknowledges the concerns that some workers may have related to COVID-19 as they return to work and that each individual case is unique. The CERB responds to a broad range of situations that may require a person to stop working. For example:•    a worker who has lost their job;•    a worker who is in quarantine or sick due to COVID-19;•    a worker who is taking care of others because they are in quarantine or sick due to COVID-19; and/or•    a worker who is taking care of children or other dependents because their school or care facility is closed due to COVID-19.There are many other reasons related to COVID-19 beyond these examples for which a worker may have stopped working. However, a worker cannot voluntarily quit their job.As the economy gradually opens, the Government of Canada encourages workers who are able to return to work to do so, provided it is reasonable based on their individual circumstances. Workers who are able to work are also encouraged to consult the tools available through Job Bank, Canada’s national employment service, to help with their job search.If a worker is concerned about the safety of their working conditions, they should discuss the situation with their employer.•    If they work in a federally-regulated workplace, they may wish to consult their workplace health and safety committee or health and safety representative as well as the document “right to refuse dangerous work” at https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/health-safety/reports/right-refuse.html•    Otherwise, they may wish to consult the website for the department of labour in their province or territory for further information on their rights and the process that they should follow.  
Cessation d'emploiCOVID-19PandémiesPrestation canadienne d’urgenceSanté et sécurité au travail
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée24 septembre 2020e-2657e-2657 (Affaires étrangères)DavidPoonMarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonConservateurON10 juin 2020 à 14 h 22 (HAE)10 juillet 2020 à 14 h 22 (HAE)12 août 202024 septembre 202013 juillet 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="6" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">premier ministre</Addressee>Attendu que :Le regroupement familial n’est pas considéré comme un motif de voyage essentiel (non discrétionnaire) dans le cadre des restrictions en matière de voyage qui sont imposées actuellement aux ressortissants étrangers en raison de la COVID-19;Les partenaires sérieux et non mariés (comme les fiancés et les partenaires à long terme) ne sont visés par aucune définition de la famille immédiate;La méthode servant actuellement à déterminer si l’admission au Canada d’un membre de la famille immédiate d’un Canadien repose sur un motif essentiel n’est pas clairement établie, et l’ASFC, IRCC et les ambassades du Canada fournissent des renseignements divergents sur l’admissibilité au Canada;Il est nécessaire de mettre en place un mécanisme uniforme permettant de déterminer à l’avance l’admissibilité au Canada du membre de la famille immédiate d’un Canadien, dans le but d’atténuer le stress ressenti dans une période déjà difficile;Tant qu’il ne sera pas tenu compte du regroupement familial dans le cadre des restrictions imposées en matière de voyage, les familles composées de membres provenant de pays différents vivront une situation pénible sur les plans physique, psychologique et émotionnel.Nous, soussignés, citoyens et résidents du Canada, prions le premier ministre d’autoriser dès maintenant aux ressortissants étrangers qui sont membres de la famille immédiate d’un Canadien d’être admis au Canada aux fins du regroupement familial, et que les voyages de ces personnes soient considérés essentiels (non discrétionnaires) ou non assujettis aux restrictions actuelles en matière de voyage. Cette demande concerne les points d’entrée terrestres et aériens au Canada.
Response by the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency PreparednessSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Joël Lightbound, M.PThe Government of Canada has announced several border measures to limit the potential spread of COVID-19, which included restrictions on the travel of most foreign nationals and citizens of the United States (U.S.) who are seeking to enter Canada. These measures were introduced to help maintain the health and safety of Canadians.In June 2020, the Government of Canada introduced an exemption for immediate family members, whereby immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada are exempt from the prohibition of entry for an optional or discretionary (non-essential) purpose provided they meet the requirements of the Orders in Council. To qualify for the exemption, foreign nationals must establish, at the time of entry, that:
  • their purpose for coming to Canada is to be with an immediate family member who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident; and
  • they intend to remain in Canada for a period of at least 15 days.
Asymptomatic foreign nationals who are immediate family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who do not meet the conditions of the immediate family exemption, as well as family members who do not meet the definition outlined in the Order in Council, may still enter Canada as long as their entry is not for a purpose that is discretionary/optional. Further, if an individual is seeking entry from the U.S., they must be able to comply with the requirement to quarantine based on their purpose of travel and intended length of stay.This exemption was one of the first steps taken by the Government of Canada to help support many families across the country.We know that there remain issues with respect to family reunification, and we are looking at how we can continue to demonstrate compassion while at the same time maintaining the integrity of our border.
COVID-19FrontièresPandémiesRestrictions concernant les voyagesRéunification des familles
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée20 juillet 2020e-2509e-2509 (Travail et emploi)BrianGaensbauerElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsParti vertBC22 avril 2020 à 17 h 30 (HAE)22 mai 2020 à 17 h 30 (HAE)28 mai 202020 juillet 202025 mai 2020Pétition au <Addressee type="6" affiliationId="" mp-riding-display="1">premier ministre</Addressee>Attendu que :De nombreux travailleurs sont considérés comme offrant un « service essentiel » en raison de la crise de COVID-19;Beaucoup d’entre eux sont payés à peine plus que le salaire minimum;De nombreux travailleurs assurant des services essentiels travaillent avec le public;En raison de la COVID-19, travailler auprès du public comporte des risques;Les Canadiens pourraient ne plus avoir accès aux services de travailleurs qui estiment que leur faible salaire ne vaut pas les risques;Les petites et moyennes entreprises qui sont déclarées « essentielles?» n’ont pas nécessairement les ressources supplémentaires pour payer des salaires plus élevés à l’heure actuelle et ne répondent pas nécessairement aux critères ouvrant droit à des subventions salariales dans le cadre d’autres programmes d’aide; Certains des plus importants travailleurs et entreprises offrant au public des services importants ne sont pas couverts par les plans d’intervention de la COVID 19.Nous, soussignés, citoyens du Canada, prions le premier ministre de faire appel à des fonds fédéraux ou provinciaux de relance pour bonifier temporairement les salaires et porter le salaire minimum dans tout le Canada à 20 $/heure ou plus pour les travailleurs qui ont des contacts avec le public général et qui sont désignés comme offrant « un service essentiel ».
Response by the Minister of FinanceSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): Mr. Sean FraserThe Government of Canada recognizes that the COVID-19 pandemic has placed particular demands on low-income workers providing essential services to Canadians. The Government of Canada’s comprehensive economic plan includes several programs that will support low-income essential workers across the country and help Canadians and business through this period of uncertainty.Essential Workers Support FundOn April 15, 2020, the Prime Minister announced that the government will work with provinces and territories through a new transfer to cost-share a temporary top-up to the salaries of workers deemed essential in the fight against COVID-19. Through this transfer, the Government of Canada will provide provinces and territories up to $3 billion in support to temporarily increase the wages of low-income essential workers.Each province or territory will determine which workers would be eligible for support, and how much support they will receive.  All provinces and territories have announced or put in place wage top-up programs for their essential workers that will be supported by the COVID-19 essential workers support fund.Canada Emergency Wage SubsidyOn April 1, 2020, the Government of Canada announced the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), a wage subsidy of 75 per cent for qualifying businesses, for up to 3 months, retroactive to March 15, 2020. The CEWS is intended to help businesses keep employees on the payroll and encourage employers to re-hire workers previously laid off, and better position businesses to bounce back following the crisis.On May 15, 2020, the Government of Canada announced that it will extend the CEWS by an additional 12 weeks to August 29, 2020. Extending the program will give workers greater confidence that they will continue to get the support they need during these difficult times. The Government consulted with key business and labour representatives on potential adjustments to the program to incent jobs and growth, including the 30 per cent revenue decline threshold. Any potential changes to the CEWS will have as key objectives to maximize employment, ensure the CEWS reflects the immediate needs of businesses, and support the post-crisis economic recovery.  
COVID-19PandémiesSalaire minimumServices essentiels
43e législature223Réponse du gouvernement déposée20 juillet 2020431-00184431-00184 (Transport)YasminRatansiDon Valley-EstLibéralON12 mai 202020 juillet 20208 mai 2020Pétition à la Chambre des communesATTENDU QUE
  • les compagnies aériennes canadiennes refusent de rembourser en entier les passagers dont les vols ont été annulés en raison de la pandémie de coronavirus.
  • ces passagers, dont bon nombre sont des travailleurs qui ont été mis à pied ou des propriétaires de petites entreprises qui ont été forcés d’interrompre leurs activités, ou encore des personnes âgées ou des personnes ayant des problèmes de santé, ont désespérément besoin de récupérer cet argent maintenant.
  • en offrant des crédits pour des voyages ultérieurs, les compagnies aériennes ne répondent pas aux souhaits de leurs passagers, et en fait, ils font en toute connaissance de cause des profits grâce au coronavirus, puisqu’ils utilisent l’argent en leur possession comme des prêts sans intérêt et savent pertinemment que de nombreux passagers ne pourront pas utiliser leurs crédits parce qu’ils seront en mauvaise santé, auront des difficultés financières, ne pourront pas s’absenter du travail ou seront décédés. Les sommes associées à ces crédits non réclamés feront directement partie des bénéfices nets des compagnies.
Nous, citoyens et résidents du Canada, demandons à la Chambre des communes :1. de refuser d’offrir toute forme d’aide financière gouvernementale aux compagnies aériennes canadiennes tant qu’elles ne remboursent pas rapidement et entièrement tout citoyen ou résident du Canada dont les vols ont été annulés en raison de la pandémie de coronavirus et qui demande un remboursement complet plutôt qu’un crédit voyage.2. d’exiger que toutes les compagnies aériennes étrangères qui offrent des vols vers le Canada ou à partir de celui-ci remboursent rapidement et entièrement tout citoyen ou résident du Canada dont les vols ont été annulés en raison de la pandémie de coronavirus et qui demande un remboursement complet plutôt qu’un crédit voyage et d’imposer des sanctions à toute compagnie aérienne étrangère qui refuse d’obtempérer.
Response by the Minister of TransportSigned by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): The Honourable Marc GarneauAs a consequence of massive revenue declines resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic, Canadian air carriers are predominantly offering vouchers rather than immediate refunds for travel cancelled due to COVID-19. However, in many instances, the passengers no longer want or are able to travel, or would prefer to have cash immediately to address financial challenges resulting from the pandemic.Canada’s Air Transport Regulations and Air Passenger Protection Regulations do not provide any guidance with respect to refunds and/or vouchers for situations outside the carrier's control, including cancelled flights due to a global pandemic such as COVID-19. Rather, air carriers have a basic obligation to complete the passenger’s itinerary, and otherwise address this issue as part of their respective terms and conditions of carriage (tariffs).As a result, different airlines have different commitments in their tariffs, often associated with the cost of the ticket, ranging from refunds for cancelled flights outside of their control to no obligation at all. As such, Canadian air carriers have implemented varying voucher and refund policies during the current pandemic.The Canadian Transportation Agency (Agency) issued a statement on March 25, 2020, to the effect that it could be an appropriate approach for air carriers to issue vouchers or credit instead of refunds for flight cancellations caused by COVID-19, as long as these do not expire in an unreasonably short period of time (e.g. less than 24 months). The Agency's voucher statement is not binding and did not change the law or alter passengers’ rights. There is an application before the Federal Court of Appeal for judicial review of the voucher statement.The Government is fully cognizant of the issue and recognizes the importance of approaches that balance the needs of individual Canadian travellers and air carriers who are going through the most difficult time in the history of the industry.
Aide gouvernementaleAnnulationCompagnies aériennesCOVID-19PandémiesRemboursement