| Update from your Member of Provincial Parliament regarding COVID-19 Over the past few weeks, members of our community have shown remarkable generosity, patience and creativity in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government continues to make difficult decisions and more than ever we need to continue to listen and apply the instructions provided by Health authorities. Thank you to each of you who follow the advice to control the spread. Every little gesture makes a big impact since we all need to contribute in our own way to ensure to flatten the curve. Thank you for staying home as much as possible and thank you for thinking about others’ safety. By taking proper precautions you can all help save lives. To address the various challenges associated with this crisis, the Government of Ontario has taken additional measures. |
| Mandatory closure of all non-essential workplaces |
| The Ontario Government had reduced further the list of non-essential workplaces to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Here is the updated list of essential workplaces: https://www.ontario.ca/page/list-essential-workplaces Call 1-888-444-3659 if you have questions about what will be open or impact to your business or employment. |
| Reinforcement of the message regarding the importance of social distancing |
| When going out in public, including grocery stores, keep two metres away from others. |
| Note for landlords and tenants |
| Landlords and tenants need to work together during these times and find understandings for rent payment. Rent must be paid as soon as possible even if eviction hearings have been suspended for the time being. For more information please consult the following website: https://www.ontario.ca/page/renting-changes-during-covid-19 |
| Reduce non essential travel to Quebec |
| The Quebec government has put in place checkpoints at crossings from Ontario to limit non-essential travel. Police checkpoints have been placed on bridges going into Gatineau from Ottawa for that reason. Make sure to only cross if absolutely necessary and know that you might be asked questions when doing so. |
| Important information to residents returning home from abroad |
| Federal and provincial public health leaders have recommended that all travelers from outside of Canada self-isolate for 14 days. These efforts will contribute to slow the introduction and spread of COVID-19 in Canada. |
| Let’s help our food banks |
| Food banks need our help more than ever. If you are able to contribute please use the following link to make a difference in our community for those in need: https://www.ottawafoodbank.ca/ |
| Government of Ontario Action Plan |
| The Government released an action plan to support people and the economy. For more information: https://budget.ontario.ca/2020/marchupdate/index.html |
| Provincial emergency social assistance |
| You may be eligible for an Ontario Works emergency benefit if you cannot receive Employment Insurance or other assistance. If you are already registered with Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), please contact your caseworker. If you would like to register, you can visit this link: https://www.ontario.ca/page/ministry-children-community-and-social-services |
| Federal Government |
| For more information on available assistance from the Federal Government, visit this link: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan.html |
| Ottawa Public Health |
| Stay informed: https://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/index.aspx |
| Alert |
| If you get a text message saying you received a deposit for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit – it’s a scam! Don’t reply and don’t click on the link. |
| We are all in this together. Lucille Collard, MPP Ottawa-Vanier |