(Ottawa – March 26, 2020) The federal government’s newly expanded and improved income support program for workers and their families is a valuable and timely measure, says the Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT).

“The COVID-19 pandemic is causing massive disruption worldwide and the next few weeks or months will be difficult for many workers who are experiencing job loss or reduced income,” says CAUT Executive Director David Robinson. “The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) is a significant step forward and we encourage both provincial and federal governments to continue to expand and adapt supports to best assist Canadians with this crisis.”

The new CERB, announced March 25, simplifies and expands previously announced programs and will provide $2000 per month for up to four months to workers who have lost income as a result of COVID-19, including contract workers and those who previously would not have been eligible for the benefits offered through the Employment Insurance (EI) program. 

The application portal is expected to be functional by early April. Those applying can expect funds within approximately ten days.